President Samia Suluhu Hassan Inaugurates Modern Silos and Grain Storage Facilities in Katavi

July 14, 2024

On July 14, 2024, the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, officially inaugurated state-of-the-art silos, grain storage facilities, and launched the 2024/2025 grain purchasing season in Katavi Region.

During her address at the inauguration ceremony, President Samia highlighted that establishing these modern storage facilities underscores the urgent need to transform agriculture into a commercial enterprise rather than merely focusing on subsistence farming. She called on farmers to boost their production to ensure the sector’s commercial success and sustainability.

President Samia further instructed the National Food Reserve Agency (NFRA) to enhance storage technology and construct additional warehouses. The goal is to increase the storage capacity to 3 million tons by 2030. The government is committed to providing the necessary support for NFRA to meet these ambitious targets.

The event was attended by several high-profile leaders, including Hon. Hussein Bashe (MP), Minister of Agriculture; Hon. Anthony Mavunde (MP), Minister of Minerals; Hon. Innocent Bashungwa (MP), Minister of Works; Hon. Angela Kairuki (MP), Minister of Natural Resources and Tourism; Hon. Jumaa Aweso (MP), Minister of Water; and Hon. Ummy Hamis Nderiananga (MP), Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office (Policy, Parliament, and Coordination). Senior regional officials from Katavi were also present.

In addition, notable attendees included Dr. Andrew Komba, CEO of NFRA, Mr. Raymond Mndolwa, Director General of the National Irrigation Commission, alongside the board, management, and staff of NFRA. The ceremony saw the participation of local farmers and the residents of Mpanda.

This initiative is poised to significantly strengthen Tanzania’s agricultural sector by providing farmers with the critical infrastructure needed for increased production and secure storage of their harvests, thereby enhancing food security and economic stability.