Improving Market Access for Livestock Products: Enhancing Competitiveness and Profitability

In 2024/5 budget speech delivered by Hon. Abdallah Hamis Ulega (MP), Minister of Livestock and Fisheries,, improving market access for livestock products was highlighted as a key priority for the government. Market access is crucial for ensuring that livestock farmers can sell their products at fair prices, thereby enhancing their incomes and overall profitability. The budget outlines several initiatives aimed at improving market access and enhancing the competitiveness of Tanzanian livestock products.

One of the major initiatives highlighted in the budget is the establishment of new livestock markets and the upgrading of existing ones. These markets provide farmers with better opportunities to sell their animals and livestock products. The new and upgraded markets are equipped with modern facilities, including cold storage units, weighing scales, and veterinary clinics. These facilities ensure that livestock are handled and traded in a safe and efficient manner, improving the overall quality and competitiveness of Tanzanian livestock products. By providing a conducive environment for trading, the government aims to enhance market access and increase the profitability of livestock farming.

The budget also emphasizes the importance of developing export markets for Tanzanian livestock products. The government is working to establish new market linkages and promote Tanzanian livestock products in international markets. This involves the implementation of quality control measures to ensure that livestock products meet international standards. The establishment of quality control laboratories equipped with the latest technology is a significant step towards achieving this goal. These laboratories ensure that livestock products are tested and certified for quality and safety before being exported. By enhancing the quality of Tanzanian livestock products, the government aims to increase their competitiveness in global markets.

The budget speech by Hon. Abdallah Hamis Ulega (MP) also highlighted the importance of improving transportation infrastructure for the livestock sector. Efficient transportation is essential for moving livestock and livestock products from farms to markets. The government is investing in the construction and rehabilitation of roads and bridges in key livestock farming areas. These improvements are expected to reduce transportation costs and ensure that livestock and livestock products can reach markets quickly and in good condition. By improving transportation infrastructure, the government aims to enhance market access and reduce post-harvest losses.

Public awareness and education are vital for the success of market access initiatives. The budget includes initiatives to raise awareness about the benefits of improved market access and to educate farmers on how to effectively utilize market facilities. This involves the dissemination of information through various channels, including workshops, seminars, and media campaigns. By increasing awareness and knowledge, the government aims to encourage more farmers to take advantage of the new market infrastructure and improve their productivity and profitability.

The establishment of livestock value chains is another significant step mentioned in the budget. Value chains involve the entire process of livestock production, from breeding and feeding to processing and marketing. By establishing and strengthening value chains, the government aims to ensure that livestock products are efficiently produced and marketed. This involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including farmers, processors, traders, and retailers. By enhancing value chains, the government aims to increase the efficiency and profitability of the livestock sector.

The budget also emphasizes the importance of supporting small-scale livestock farmers in accessing markets. Small-scale farmers often face challenges in accessing markets due to limited resources and lack of information. The government is implementing initiatives to provide small-scale farmers with the necessary support to access markets. This includes the provision of market information, training on marketing strategies, and financial support through concessional loans. By supporting small-scale farmers, the government aims to promote inclusive growth and ensure that all farmers benefit from improved market access.

In conclusion, the initiatives to improve market access for livestock products outlined in the budget speech by Hon. Abdallah Hamis Ulega (MP) reflect the government’s commitment to enhancing the competitiveness and profitability of Tanzania’s livestock sector. Through establishing and upgrading livestock markets, developing export markets, improving transportation infrastructure, public awareness initiatives, establishing value chains, and supporting small-scale farmers, the government is taking comprehensive steps to improve market access. These initiatives are expected to have a significant positive impact on the livelihoods of livestock farmers and contribute to the overall economic growth and development of Tanzania.