Raha Farm Opens New Facility in Kahama, Boosting Tanzania’s Tomato Sector

Kahama, Tanzania – January 29, 2025

Raha Farm, a leading player in Tanzania’s horticulture sector, has officially launched its fourth facility in Kahama Municipality, Shinyanga Region. The expansion, spearheaded by youthful entrepreneur and CEO Raha Aloyce, underscores the company’s commitment to empowering farmers, promoting sustainable agriculture, and positioning Tanzania as a competitive global tomato market.

The launch event, held in Nyakato, was graced by Kahama District Commissioner Hon. Mboni Mhita and attended by hundreds of stakeholders, including farmers from the Lake Zone, government officials, agricultural input suppliers, and farmer groups. The ceremony highlighted the importance of strong public-private partnerships in driving sustainable agricultural development in Tanzania.

Boosting Production Through Improved Seedlings

Research across East Africa has consistently shown that high-quality, disease-resistant seedlings significantly increase tomato yields. For instance, in Tanzania’s Morogoro Region, farmers using improved seedlings reported yield increases from an average of 10 tonnes per hectare to 25-30 tonnes per hectare—a 150-200% boost (according to IITA and TARI).

Similar trends have been observed in neighbouring countries. In Kenya’s Rift Valley, introducing new tomato seed varieties has raised production from 15 to 40 tonnes per hectare, a 167% increase (IITA, Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization [KALRO]). Farmers in Ethiopia’s Oromia Region have seen yields rise from 10-12 tonnes per hectare to 35 tonnes per hectare, marking a 200-250% improvement (Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research [EIAR], FAO).

Raha Farm’s Contribution to Tanzania’s Tomato Sector

Raha Farm’s strategy aligns with the goals of the Southern Agricultural Growth Corridor of Tanzania (SAGCOT), focusing on promoting best agricultural practices, empowering youth, and increasing productivity. The company’s approach includes efficient farm management, high-quality seedling production, and advanced planting techniques.

By expanding to Kahama, Raha Farm is bringing critical resources and expertise to farmers in the Lake Zone. This move is expected to enhance tomato production, reduce post-harvest losses, and create a more competitive market for Tanzanian farmers.

Aloyce, the visionary CEO of Raha Farm, emphasized the company’s mission to support smallholder farmers and drive agricultural innovation. “Our goal is to make Tanzania a global leader in tomato production,” Aloyce stated. “By providing farmers with the right tools, knowledge, and support, we can transform the agricultural landscape and improve livelihoods across the country.”

The new facility in Kahama is a testament to Raha Farm’s dedication to sustainable growth and its belief in the potential of Tanzania’s agricultural sector. As the company continues to expand, it aims to not only boost production but also inspire a new generation of farmers to embrace innovation and sustainability.

With initiatives like these, Tanzania is well on its way to becoming a key player in the global tomato market, ensuring food security and economic prosperity for its people.