Hon. Abdallah Ulega, Empowering the Youth through Livestock: A New Initiative in Mtwara

Mtwara, Tanzania, September 17, 2023 – In a forward-looking initiative aimed at economic growth and youth empowerment, the Minister for Livestock and Fisheries, Hon. Abdallah Ulega, has unveiled plans to optimize the Nangaramo Livestock Farm in Mtwara. The central focus is the introduction of the BBT program, a progressive step to give the youth from the Southern Regions an opportunity to modernize livestock farming, ensuring meat becomes more affordable for the populace.

During a community engagement session alongside the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Her Excellency Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, in the Masasi District of Mtwara, Minister Ulega highlighted the disparities in meat prices. He drew attention to the concerning rate of Ten Thousand Shillings (10,000) per kilogram of meat in Mtwara, emphasizing the necessity for intervention.

“The vast livestock resources in Mtwara and surrounding regions present an untapped potential. The BBT program is designed not only to make meat affordable but to usher in an era of modern livestock farming, led by our youth,” Ulega remarked.

Beyond the borders, this program is set to establish a robust trade bridge with Comoros. The island nation has historically leaned on Tanzania for its livestock and meat supply. By facilitating smoother trade operations, both nations stand to benefit, boosting the regional economy.

A collaborative synergy between the Ministry of Livestock and the Ministry of Lands will be instrumental in the success of this initiative. Hon. Ulega outlined their joint plans to harness lands earmarked in the land-use planning scheme. These areas will be transformed into state-of-the-art livestock hubs, fitted with modern infrastructure, enabling farmers to upscale their production while maintaining sustainability.

Minister Ulega concluded by expressing gratitude to President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan for her steadfast commitment to resolving the longstanding farmers and herders’ conflicts in the Southern Regions. Echoing the spirit of progress and unity, he emphasized the importance of adhering to national laws and warned against violations, ensuring a harmonious agricultural ecosystem.

This initiative marks a paradigm shift, placing Tanzania on the map as a beacon of progressive agricultural transformation in East Africa.