Tanzania’s Agricultural Tapestry: A Comprehensive Analysis of Over 120 Crop Value Chains

Executive Summary

Tanzania’s agricultural sector represents a vast and dynamic economic landscape, a vibrant tapestry woven from the threads of more than 120 distinct crop value chains. As the backbone of the national economy, the sector contributes nearly 30% to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and is the primary source of livelihood for approximately three-quarters of the workforce.¹ The 2023/2024 fiscal year marked a period of exceptional growth, underscoring the sector’s immense potential. Production of cereals surged from 11.4 million to 18.9 million tons, traditional cash crops increased from 1.22 million to 1.49 million tons, and roots and tubers rose from 11.1 million to 15.7 million tons.² This remarkable expansion is a direct outcome of heightened government commitment, reflected in the substantial increase of the Ministry of Agriculture’s budget from TZS 751.12 billion in 2022/2023 to TZS 970.79 billion in 2023/2024.²

A central theme emerging from this analysis is the strategic transformation of the sector, where the conventional distinctions between “food crops” and “cash crops” are increasingly becoming obsolete. Traditional staples, most notably maize and rice, have evolved into formidable commercial exports, generating significant foreign exchange and reshaping regional trade dynamics.¹ This shift is a cornerstone of the government’s “Agenda 10/30” initiative, a bold strategy aiming to achieve a 10% annual growth rate for the agricultural sector and secure USD 5 billion in export earnings by the year 2030.²

Despite these successes, the sector is confronted by a series of systemic challenges that cut across all value chains. A persistent “productivity paradox” exists, where high aggregate production volumes often mask low yields per hectare, which remain well below global benchmarks and regional potential.¹ This gap is largely attributable to limited access to improved seeds, insufficient irrigation infrastructure, and the need for more robust extension services. Furthermore, the sector’s vulnerability to climate change, significant post-harvest losses, and an underdeveloped domestic processing and value-addition capacity continue to constrain its ability to capture maximum economic value.⁶

This report provides a comprehensive, cluster-by-cluster analysis of Tanzania’s diverse crop value chains. It delves into the production dynamics, economic significance, market trends, and strategic imperatives for cereals, traditional cash crops, oil seeds, horticulture, roots and tubers, and pulses. By synthesizing data from a wide array of official reports, industry analyses, and academic research, this document aims to serve as a definitive reference for policymakers, investors, development partners, and researchers seeking a nuanced, data-driven understanding of one of Africa’s most pivotal agricultural economies.

Table 1: Comparative Overview of Tanzanian Crop Clusters

Crop Cluster	Key Crops	Estimated Contribution to GDP/Exports	Primary Role	Key Systemic Challenge	Growth Potential
Cereals	Maize, Rice, Sorghum, Millet, Wheat	High (Staple food & major regional export)	Food Security, Regional Trade, Animal Feed	Low productivity (yield gap), price volatility, climate vulnerability	Very High
Traditional Cash Crops	Coffee, Cashew, Cotton, Tobacco, Sisal, Tea, Cloves	High (Foundation of historical exports)	Export Earnings, Rural Livelihoods	Commodity price fluctuations, need for value addition, environmental concerns	Moderate to High
Oil Seeds	Sunflower, Groundnuts, Sesame, Palm, Soybean	Moderate (Growing importance)	Import Substitution, Export, Animal Feed	Massive domestic supply deficit, poor quality seeds, processing capacity	Very High
Horticulture	Avocado, Mango, Tomato, Onion, Spices, Flowers	High (Fastest-growing sub-sector)	Export Diversification, High-Value Markets, Nutrition	Post-harvest losses, logistics & cold chain, quality standards	Very High
Roots & Tubers	Cassava, Sweet Potato, Irish Potato, Yams, Taro	Moderate (Critical for food security)	Food Security, Nutrition (Biofortification), Industrial Raw Material	Under-commercialization, processing technology, seed systems	High
Pulses	Beans, Pigeon Peas, Chickpeas, Cowpeas	Moderate (Key protein source & export)	Nutrition Security, Soil Health, Export Income	Low productivity, export market concentration risk	High

Section 1: The Cereal Grains Backbone: Securing Food and Commerce

The cereal grains cluster forms the bedrock of Tanzania’s food security architecture and is increasingly a pillar of its commercial agricultural strategy. These crops are fundamental to domestic consumption, providing the bulk of the nation’s caloric intake, while simultaneously emerging as powerful drivers of regional trade. This section analyzes the value chains of maize, rice, sorghum, millet, and wheat, exploring the dynamic tension between the national imperative to achieve food self-sufficiency and the lucrative opportunities of commercial export.

1.1 Maize (Corn)

Maize (Zea mays) is the undisputed linchpin of Tanzania’s food system. It is the dominant staple crop, accounting for over 80% of dietary calories and more than 45% of the country’s daily calorie consumption.¹ The 2023/2024 season marked a historic achievement for the nation, with a record harvest of 11.7 million tonnes. This monumental output propelled Tanzania past Nigeria to become the second-largest maize producer on the African continent, a dramatic increase from the 5.9 million tonnes produced just two years prior in 2022.¹ This success has solidified Tanzania’s role as a crucial component of the regional food supply chain, with significant exports to neighboring countries, including Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In 2023 alone, maize exports generated US$71.7 million in revenue.¹

However, a closer examination of the maize value chain reveals a complex reality that tempers the celebration of record-breaking volumes. While the national harvest figures suggest a resounding policy success, they mask underlying structural weaknesses in productivity and market stability, creating a “macro success, micro precarity” paradox. The impressive production growth has historically been achieved more through the expansion of land under cultivation rather than through significant improvements in yield per hectare.¹⁰ Average yields remain stubbornly low, typically ranging from 1 to 2 tons per hectare, a fraction of the crop’s genetic potential and well below global averages.¹ This indicates that the recent surge is likely also driven by bringing more land into production—an unsustainable growth model in the face of a growing population and increasing land pressure.

Furthermore, the national surplus has not consistently translated into stable, profitable income for the smallholder farmers who form the backbone of the sector. Farmers frequently face challenges from low and volatile market prices, which have led some to shift to alternative crops.¹ This precarious economic situation is compounded by persistent agronomic threats, such as pest pressure from the Fall Armyworm, and logistical and bureaucratic hurdles, including difficulties in obtaining export permits through official channels.¹ Consequently, the national achievement of becoming a regional breadbasket is built on a foundation that remains fragile. Without a concerted strategic shift toward closing the productivity gap through improved seeds, irrigation, and mechanization, and addressing the market volatility faced by producers, the country risks farmer burnout and a potential future decline in production. Such a decline would jeopardize not only export revenues but also the long-term food security that the maize sector is meant to guarantee.

1.2 Rice

Rice (Oryza sativa) has rapidly ascended to become Tanzania’s second most important grain and has been officially identified by the government as a strategic crop for both food security and economic growth.¹ The country stands as the largest rice producer in East Africa, with an output that nearly doubles the combined production of regional peers like Kenya, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.¹ This impressive performance is largely credited to targeted government initiatives, most notably the National Rice Development Strategy (NRDS), which has set an ambitious goal of achieving an annual output of 8.8 million tonnes by 2030.¹

The most profound development in the rice value chain is its successful transformation from a traditional food crop into a major commercial and export commodity. This strategic shift is powerfully illustrated by 2021 export data, which showed that earnings from rice—totaling Sh476.29 billion from 441,908 tonnes—surpassed the combined export earnings of several of Tanzania’s traditional cash crops, including sisal, tea, and cotton.⁴ This achievement provides concrete evidence for the government’s evolving agricultural philosophy, articulated by the Minister for Agriculture: “we don’t separate food and cash crops, all are business”.⁴

The success of the rice value chain serves as a compelling proof-of-concept for the government’s entire agricultural transformation agenda. It demonstrates that a combination of targeted policy, strategic investment, and public-private collaboration can effectively commercialize a traditional staple into a high-value export commodity. The direct link between the NRDS policy and the tangible outcome of market dominance creates a powerful and replicable model for development.¹ This blueprint for success is not limited to rice; its principles can be adapted and applied to other high-potential crops that have traditionally been viewed through a subsistence lens, such as cassava, sweet potatoes, or certain pulses. By following this model, Tanzania has the opportunity to fundamentally restructure its agricultural economy, moving beyond its historical reliance on a narrow portfolio of colonial-era cash crops. The story of rice’s ascendancy is therefore not just about a single grain; it is a strategic roadmap for the future of Tanzanian agriculture.

1.3 Sorghum & Millet

Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) and various species of millet, including bulrush and finger millet, are primary cereals of immense strategic importance, particularly for ensuring food security in Tanzania’s arid and semi-arid regions such as Dodoma, Singida, and Shinyanga.⁹ Sorghum ranks as the nation’s third most cultivated cereal, with production reaching 1.0 million metric tons in 2023.⁹ These grains are highly valued for their exceptional drought resilience, allowing them to thrive where other crops may fail, and for their strong nutritional profile, being rich in essential micronutrients like iron and potassium.⁹ They are also recognized as key indigenous crops, playing a vital role in maintaining the agricultural biodiversity that is essential for building a resilient ecosystem in the face of climate change.¹²

A significant evolution is occurring in the perception and use of these crops. Historically viewed as subsistence “famine crops”—foods of last resort during times of drought—sorghum and millet are now being recognized as strategic assets for climate adaptation and economic diversification. A key driver of this shift is the growing demand from the animal feed industry. As the livestock and poultry sectors expand, the need for resilient, locally sourced feed ingredients is increasing, and both sorghum and millet are vital components in feed formulations for poultry and cattle.⁹ This provides a new, stable, and commercially viable market for these grains, moving them beyond direct human consumption.

This transition is critical for de-risking Tanzania’s agricultural system from its heavy dependence on maize. The maize value chain is characterized by its vulnerability to variable rainfall, pest outbreaks, and significant price shocks.¹ By contrast, sorghum and millet offer a more stable and climate-resilient alternative. Investing in the development of their value chains is therefore not merely a measure to support farmers in marginal dryland areas; it is a national-level strategy to build a more robust and diversified food system. Promoting these grains creates a crucial buffer against potential maize failures, diversifies income streams for a broader range of farmers, and provides the essential inputs needed to support the sustainable growth of the livestock industry—another key pillar of the national economy.

1.4 Wheat

Wheat (Triticum aestivum) represents a smaller but strategically significant value chain within Tanzania’s cereal cluster. It is cultivated primarily in the specific agro-ecological zones of the northern highlands, in regions such as Arusha.¹⁰ Domestic production is modest, with forecasts from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) projecting an output of approximately 75,000 tons for the 2025/2026 marketing year.¹⁴

The primary strategic importance of wheat is not its export potential but its role as a major import substitution crop, a category it shares with other key commodities like sunflower and sugar.¹⁵ This classification highlights the significant and persistent gap between domestic production and national demand, which is currently met through costly imports. The value chain’s development is therefore a focal point for government policies aimed at reducing the national import bill and conserving foreign exchange. The key challenges facing the sector are closely linked to its specific geographical and climatic requirements. Production is highly vulnerable to weather patterns, particularly the reliability of the long rains in its northern growing areas.¹⁰

Unlike maize or rice, where the strategic objective is to achieve regional export dominance, the goal for wheat is to attain a greater degree of national self-sufficiency. This necessitates a distinct set of interventions tailored to its unique context. The path forward for the wheat value chain requires a concentrated focus on improving productivity within its specific agro-ecological niche. This includes targeted investment in irrigation infrastructure to mitigate dependency on increasingly unreliable rainfall, as well as dedicated research and development to introduce high-yielding, climate-adapted wheat varieties suited to local conditions. Success in this value chain will be measured not by export volumes, but by the reduction in tons of wheat imported each year.

1.5 Other Cereals (Barley, Oats, Rye, Buckwheat, Mixed Grains)

Beyond the five major cereal grains, Tanzania’s agricultural landscape includes a variety of other cereals cultivated on a smaller scale. While specific production data for these crops are not prominently featured in national agricultural reports, their presence is confirmed by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), which includes barley, oats, rye, buckwheat, and mixed grains in its official definition and calculation of “cereal yield” for the country.⁵ Other indigenous African cereals such as fonio (acha) and teff are also part of this broader category of underutilized grains.¹³

These minor cereals currently represent nascent value chains with significant, albeit untapped, potential for niche market development. Their cultivation offers important opportunities for diversification beyond the dominant staple crops, catering to specific and often high-value market segments. Barley, for instance, is a primary input for the brewing industry, and its local cultivation could support the growth of both large-scale and craft breweries, reducing reliance on imported malt. Other grains like oats, rye, and buckwheat are increasingly in demand globally by health-conscious consumers for use in specialty flours, breakfast foods, and other health-oriented products.

Although currently overlooked in major policy discussions, these crops should not be dismissed. They represent an opportunity for entrepreneurs, farmer groups, and development projects to pioneer high-margin, low-volume value chains. By targeting these niche markets, Tanzania can further diversify its agricultural economy, create new income streams for farmers in suitable agro-ecological zones, and build a more complex and resilient food system that is less dependent on a few major commodities. The development of these minor cereals aligns with global food trends that favor diversity, unique nutritional profiles, and novel culinary ingredients.

Section 2: Pillars of Commerce: Traditional Cash Crop Value Chains

This section provides an in-depth analysis of the crops that have historically formed the foundation of Tanzania’s agricultural export economy. These “traditional” cash crops, many of which have production histories dating back to the colonial era, remain vital sources of foreign exchange and rural employment. The analysis examines their current performance, the persistent challenges they face, and their evolving role in an agricultural sector that is rapidly diversifying.

2.1 Coffee

Coffee stands as one of Tanzania’s most important and iconic export crops, deeply integrated into the national economy and rural livelihoods. The sector involves over 400,000 farmers and has historically earned over 17% of the country’s foreign exchange.¹⁶ Tanzania’s production is dominated by the high-value Arabica type, which is globally marketed under the premium brand “Kilimanjaro Coffee,” a name that evokes quality and a unique origin story. In addition to Arabica, Robusta coffee is also cultivated, primarily by small farms in the Kagera Region.¹⁶ The sector is characterized by a dualistic structure, with production occurring on both large, privately-owned estates and by smallholders organized into cooperatives.¹⁶ While 2018 production was recorded at 55,000 tons, the sector has demonstrated strong recent performance, with the value of coffee exports seeing a remarkable 66.3% increase in the year ending April 2025.¹⁶

The future competitiveness of Tanzania’s coffee sector is intrinsically linked to its ability to fully leverage its most powerful asset: its premium brand identity. The global recognition of “Kilimanjaro Coffee” provides a significant market advantage that has yet to be fully exploited.¹⁶ To maximize returns, the strategic focus must shift from merely increasing production volume to enhancing quality and capturing more value along the supply chain. The current model, which largely involves exporting raw, unroasted green beans, leaves a substantial portion of the final product’s value in the hands of international roasters and retailers.

The path to greater profitability involves moving beyond being a simple commodity exporter. This requires a concerted effort to capture more value both upstream and downstream. Upstream, this means investing in quality control at the farm and cooperative level to ensure consistency and meet the exacting standards of the specialty coffee market. The dual structure of estates and smallholder co-ops presents both a challenge—inconsistent quality from fragmented smallholders—and an opportunity, as well-managed co-ops can provide the traceability and unique flavor profiles demanded by specialty buyers. Downstream, the opportunity lies in developing domestic roasting, grinding, and packaging capacity. By exporting a finished, consumer-ready product, Tanzania can capture a significantly larger share of the retail price, create skilled jobs in processing and marketing, and build a more resilient and profitable industry. The strong global demand, evidenced by the recent surge in export values, confirms that the market is ready for a higher-value proposition from Tanzania.¹⁷

2.2 Cashew Nuts

The cashew nut value chain is a powerhouse of the Tanzanian agricultural economy, positioning the country as a top-tier global producer. Tanzania ranks as the eighth-largest grower of cashew nuts in the world and the fourth-largest in Africa.¹⁶ The sector is a critical source of foreign exchange, contributing between 10-15% of the nation’s total, and it is the primary source of livelihood for 75% of the more than 700,000 households involved in its cultivation, predominantly in the southern coastal regions.¹⁶ Production has been robust, recorded at 171,000 tons in 2018, and the sector has experienced explosive growth in export value, with a staggering 141% increase in the year ending April 2025.¹⁶ A significant strategic success has been the diversification of export markets, with the recent opening of new, high-value destinations such as the United States.²

The cashew sector is currently undergoing a critical and deliberate transition, moving away from its historical role as an exporter of raw, in-shell nuts toward becoming a significant processor and exporter of value-added kernels. This strategic shift is driven by government policy aimed at industrialization and the clear economic logic of capturing more value domestically. While production volumes are high and growing, the primary bottleneck constraining the sector’s profitability is no longer on-farm output but the severe lack of domestic processing capacity.⁷ The current situation, where the vast majority of nuts are exported raw for processing in other countries like Vietnam and India, means that Tanzania forfeits the most lucrative part of the value chain.

The evidence of this under-realized potential is clear. The fact that valuable by-products like cashew apples are often left to rot in the fields is a classic indicator of a value chain focused narrowly on the primary commodity, ignoring significant secondary income streams.¹⁹ The huge demand for investment in modern cashew nut processing units is explicitly identified as a major opportunity.⁷ Therefore, the most significant future economic gains will be realized through strategic investments in processing infrastructure. This includes facilities that can not only shell and grade the nuts to international standards but also process the by-products, such as converting cashew apples into juice and beverages, and extracting valuable Cashew Nut Shell Liquid (CNSL) for industrial applications. By building this capacity, Tanzania can transform the sector, creating thousands of manufacturing jobs, dramatically increasing export earnings, and capturing the full economic potential of its “white gold.”

2.3 Cotton

Cotton (Gossypium) is one of Tanzania’s foundational cash crops, with a long history of cultivation and export.¹⁶ In 2018, the country produced 238,000 tons of cotton lint.¹⁶ The sector is poised for significant growth, with USDA projections indicating a 25% increase in production for the 2025/2026 season compared to the five-year average.¹⁴ Beyond its role as an export commodity, the cotton value chain holds a unique strategic position within the government’s broader economic agenda. There is a clear policy objective to ensure that the sector can generate adequate quantities of high-quality raw materials to supply Tanzania’s growing domestic agro-industries, particularly textiles and clothing manufacturing.³

The revitalization of the cotton value chain is thus intrinsically and inextricably linked to the success of Tanzania’s national industrialization policy. The strategic importance of cotton is increasingly being measured not just by the volume of raw lint exported, but by its role as a primary input for a burgeoning domestic manufacturing sector. The government’s vision is to build a competitive “farm-to-fashion” value chain that can compete in domestic, regional, and global markets for finished textile products.³

This creates a powerful symbiotic relationship that, if properly nurtured, can drive growth in both agriculture and manufacturing. A thriving domestic textile industry would create a stable, predictable, and high-demand market for Tanzania’s cotton farmers, insulating them from the volatility of global commodity prices. In turn, a reliable and high-quality supply of locally grown cotton would make the domestic textile industry more competitive by reducing its reliance on imported raw materials and shortening supply chains. Therefore, a successful policy for the cotton sector cannot be limited to on-farm interventions. It requires a holistic, integrated approach that addresses challenges and opportunities at every stage of the value chain, from improving cotton seed varieties and agronomic practices to investing in modern ginning, spinning, weaving, and garment manufacturing technologies. The ultimate goal is not just to grow more cotton, but to transform that cotton into finished goods within Tanzania’s borders.

2.4 Tobacco

Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) remains a significant traditional cash crop in Tanzania, which ranks as the world’s eighth-largest producer, with an output of 107,000 tons in 2018.¹⁶ The crop is cultivated extensively in the plateaus and semi-arid regions of Tabora, Mbeya, and Iringa, providing a crucial source of income for farmers in these areas.¹⁹ The value chain has demonstrated strong export performance, with a 32% increase in export value recorded in the year ending April 2025.¹⁷

However, the tobacco value chain operates under a cloud of increasing environmental and social scrutiny, both domestically and internationally. The most significant negative externality associated with its cultivation is deforestation. The process of curing tobacco leaves is fuel-intensive, and for decades, it has driven the cutting of local forests to provide wood for curing barns. This has led to severe land degradation and increased the risk of desertification in major tobacco-growing districts.¹⁹ In response, there have been decades-long afforestation campaigns and efforts to promote the use of dedicated woodlots, but the environmental impact remains a core challenge for the sector’s sustainability.¹⁹

This context fundamentally shapes the future of the tobacco industry in Tanzania. Its long-term viability is no longer solely dependent on production volumes or export revenues. In a global market that is increasingly sensitive to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria, the international buyers and corporations that dominate the industry are under pressure to ensure their supply chains are sustainable. Consequently, the “license to operate” for Tanzanian tobacco will increasingly depend on its ability to provide verifiable proof of progress in mitigating deforestation, promoting sustainable curing practices (such as using more efficient barns or alternative fuel sources), and supporting economic diversification for farming communities. The future of the sector is therefore a delicate balancing act, requiring continuous efforts to reconcile its economic benefits with the urgent need for environmental stewardship and social responsibility.

2.5 Sisal

Sisal (Agave sisalana), a fiber crop introduced from Mexico in the late 19th century, holds a unique place in Tanzania’s agricultural history.¹⁶ At the time of its independence in 1961, Tanzania was the world’s largest producer of sisal, with the crop playing a dominant role in its export economy. While its prominence has since diminished, it remains a notable cash crop, cultivated primarily in the northern regions of Tanga and Kilimanjaro.¹⁶ In 2018, production was recorded at 33,000 tons.¹⁶

The sisal value chain can be characterized as a “legacy” industry that has faced a long-term decline, largely due to intense competition from cheaper synthetic fibers in its traditional markets for rope, twine, and other cordage. However, this historical crop is now poised for a potential modern revival, driven by powerful global trends that favor natural, biodegradable, and sustainable materials. The opportunity for sisal is not to reclaim its old markets but to innovate and enter new, high-value sectors that are aligned with the principles of the circular and bio-based economy.

Modern research has identified a wide range of new applications for sisal beyond traditional fiber. The biomass from the sisal plant can be used as a feedstock for biofuels. Its strong, lightweight fibers are being explored for use in bio-composites for the automotive and construction industries, serving as an environmentally friendly alternative to fiberglass. Furthermore, specialty extracts from the plant have potential applications in the pharmaceutical sector. Repositioning sisal as a versatile, multi-purpose industrial crop for the 21st century requires a strategic shift toward research and development, investment in new processing technologies, and the cultivation of partnerships with industries outside of traditional agriculture. By tapping into these emerging markets, Tanzania can transform sisal from a crop of the past into a key component of a modern, sustainable bioeconomy.

2.6 Tea

Tea (Camellia sinensis) is a significant perennial cash crop in Tanzania, cultivated in the high-altitude, high-rainfall areas of the western and southern highlands.¹⁹ In 2018, national production reached 36,000 tons.¹⁶ The crop is a critical component of the farming systems in districts like Njombe and Mufindi, where it is often grown alongside maize and pyrethrum.¹¹

A defining characteristic of the tea value chain is its heavy reliance on irrigation to ensure the consistent moisture levels required for high-quality leaf production.¹¹ This dependency makes the sector’s resilience and future growth prospects directly and acutely tied to the effective management of water resources and investment in irrigation infrastructure. Consequently, the tea industry is highly sensitive to the impacts of climate change, which are already manifesting in Tanzania through more erratic rainfall patterns, prolonged droughts, and changes in river flows.⁸

Any long-term strategy for sustaining or expanding the tea sector must therefore have water security as its central pillar. The viability of the industry will depend on its ability to adapt to a changing climate. This requires a multi-faceted approach focused on improving water-use efficiency at the estate and farm level, through the adoption of modern technologies like drip irrigation. It also necessitates broader, landscape-level interventions aimed at protecting the watersheds and river systems that feed the irrigation schemes. Furthermore, continued investment in maintaining and upgrading irrigation infrastructure is essential to mitigate the risks posed by climate variability. For the tea sector, sustainable water management is not just an environmental issue; it is the fundamental prerequisite for economic survival and growth.

2.7 Sugarcane

Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) is a major industrial crop in Tanzania, with production reaching an impressive 3 million tons in 2018.¹⁶ It is primarily cultivated in large-scale plantations located in alluvial river valleys, where fertile soils and access to water create ideal growing conditions.¹¹ As a crop with high water requirements, it is one of the country’s main irrigated crops.¹¹

Similar to wheat, the strategic importance of the sugarcane value chain is defined by its role in import substitution.¹⁵ Tanzania has a large and growing domestic demand for sugar, and boosting local production is a key government priority to reduce reliance on imports and save foreign exchange. The sector is characterized by a high degree of vertical integration, with large, capital-intensive estates often operating their own sugar mills.

However, the expansion potential of the sugarcane industry is constrained by significant competition for the very resources it depends on: fertile land and abundant water in the nation’s river valleys. These same ecosystems are also the prime locations for the cultivation of rice, another crop of immense strategic importance.¹¹ This creates a direct resource conflict that requires careful and strategic national-level planning. Policymakers are faced with a critical trade-off: allocating more land and water to sugarcane to pursue the goal of sugar self-sufficiency, or prioritizing the expansion of rice cultivation to enhance national food security and capitalize on lucrative regional export markets.¹ This competition for finite resources means that any decision to expand sugarcane production cannot be made in isolation. It must be carefully balanced against the needs of other vital agricultural sectors that thrive in the same valuable and limited riverine landscapes.

2.8 Pyrethrum

Pyrethrum (Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium) is a specialized cash and export crop cultivated in the high-altitude regions of Tanzania, particularly in the Njombe and Mufindi districts of the Iringa region.¹¹ It is often integrated into a mixed farming system that also includes tea and maize.¹¹ The value of pyrethrum lies in the potent natural insecticides, known as pyrethrins, which are extracted from its flowers.

This unique characteristic positions the pyrethrum value chain to capitalize on a powerful and growing global trend: the shift away from synthetic chemical pesticides toward organic and sustainable agriculture. As consumers and regulatory bodies in key export markets (such as the European Union) become increasingly concerned about the environmental and health impacts of chemical residues in food, the demand for effective, natural alternatives is surging. Pyrethrum extract is one of the few natural insecticides permitted for use in certified organic farming, making it a highly sought-after input for a rapidly expanding global market.

For Tanzania, this presents a high-value, niche export opportunity. While the total volume of production may be small compared to bulk commodities, the price per kilogram for pyrethrum extract is significantly higher. For farmers in the specific highland areas where the crop thrives, pyrethrum offers a chance to diversify their income and tap into a premium international market that is less prone to the price volatility of traditional commodity crops. The strategic development of this value chain involves ensuring high-quality, consistent production and investing in modern extraction facilities to produce a standardized, high-potency product that meets the exacting requirements of the global organic and bio-pesticide industries.

2.9 Cloves

Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum) are the most important spice crop in Tanzania and are the heart of the agricultural economy and cultural identity of the Zanzibar archipelago, which includes the islands of Unguja and Pemba.²² The historical dominance of this and other spices earned the islands the moniker “The Spice Islands,” a brand that remains powerful to this day.⁸ While Zanzibar is the epicenter of production, cloves are also cultivated on the mainland, particularly in the Tanga and Morogoro regions.²²

The clove value chain is more than just an agricultural activity; it is a cornerstone of Zanzibar’s unique identity and a key driver of its tourism industry. The economic value of cloves is therefore twofold. First, there is the direct revenue generated from the export of the spice itself. Second, and equally important, is the indirect economic contribution that the picturesque clove plantations and the “Spice Island” heritage make to the tourism sector, which is a principal focus of Zanzibar’s economic diversification strategy.⁸

This dual role requires a holistic development strategy that protects both the crop’s production and its cultural heritage. Policies affecting the clove industry must be evaluated not only for their impact on agricultural output but also for their potential effect on the tourism brand. For example, converting traditional, well-managed clove plantations to other forms of land use could permanently damage the very authentic, aromatic landscape that attracts tourists for “spice tours” and cultural experiences. This could result in a net economic loss for Zanzibar, even if the alternative land use is profitable in its own right. The sustainable future of the clove sector depends on an integrated approach that supports farmers to improve quality and yields while simultaneously preserving the historical and cultural landscape that makes Zanzibar a unique global destination.

Section 3: The Edible Oils Sector: Bridging the National Supply Gap

The edible oils sector holds a position of critical strategic importance for Tanzania’s economic sovereignty. The nation faces a substantial deficit between domestic demand and local production, resulting in a significant annual import bill that drains foreign exchange reserves. This section focuses on the key oilseed crops—sunflower, groundnuts, palm oil, sesame, and soybean—that are central to the government’s strategy of achieving national self-sufficiency. The analysis examines the entire value chain, from the fundamental challenge of seed quality at the farm level to the industrial capacity for processing and refining.

3.1 Sunflower

Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) is the undisputed leader of Tanzania’s oilseed sector and is officially designated as a major import substitution crop.¹⁵ The country is a globally significant producer, ranking among the top ten in the world for sunflower seed output.⁶ Despite this, Tanzania faces a massive and persistent deficit in edible oils. National demand is estimated at approximately 650,000 tons per year, while domestic production from all sources is only around 290,000 tons.²⁴ This gap of over 360,000 tons must be filled by imports, creating a substantial drain on the country’s foreign currency reserves.²⁶

In response, the government has launched ambitious initiatives, including the National Edible Oil Strategy, which aims to dramatically increase local production, with a specific target of producing 400,000 tonnes of sunflower oil domestically.¹⁵ However, a deep dive into the value chain reveals that the entire sector’s potential is being throttled by a single, critical, and systemic bottleneck: the lack of a reliable supply of high-quality, improved sunflower seeds. The vast majority of high-yielding hybrid seeds are currently imported, and smallholder farmers, who constitute the bulk of producers, have limited access to them.¹⁵ This is explicitly identified as the number one constraint holding back the sector.²⁴

This singular focus on the seed system clarifies the strategic imperative for the entire industry. While interventions in other areas, such as improving processing technology or marketing, are important, their impact will remain severely limited as long as farmers are planting low-yielding, open-pollinated varieties with low oil content. The most high-leverage intervention for unlocking the potential of the sunflower industry and achieving the national goal of self-sufficiency is therefore a concentrated investment in building a robust domestic seed value chain. The public-private partnership models described in the research—whereby public research institutions like the Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI) collaborate with private seed companies on research, breeding, multiplication, and commercial distribution—represent the lynchpin for success.¹⁵ Fixing the seed system is the essential first step to closing the edible oil gap and transforming the sector.

3.2 Groundnuts (Peanuts)

Tanzania is a global heavyweight in the production of groundnuts (Arachis hypogaea), ranking as the seventh-largest producer in the world with an output of 940,000 tons in 2018.¹⁶ The crop is a key component of the widespread Maize/Legume farming system, where it is valued for its role in crop rotation and soil health.¹¹ Production levels have remained relatively stable, with USDA data indicating an output of around 760,000 tons in recent years.¹⁴

Despite these impressive production volumes, the groundnut value chain remains significantly under-commercialized, particularly in the context of the national edible oil strategy. A striking disconnect exists between Tanzania’s status as a top global producer and the crop’s minimal role in the formal, industrial oilseed sector. While the national discourse on bridging the edible oil deficit focuses almost exclusively on sunflower, groundnuts are rarely mentioned as a major part of the solution.⁶

This suggests that the vast majority of groundnut production is not channeled into large-scale industrial oil pressing. The crop’s common function as an intercrop with maize implies that it is often treated as a secondary crop, cultivated primarily for direct household consumption, local food preparations (such as pastes), or sale in informal local markets.¹¹ This represents a massive, largely untapped opportunity. With its high oil content and substantial production base, the groundnut sector has the potential to make a significant contribution to alleviating the national edible oil shortage. Unlocking this potential would require a strategic shift to promote groundnuts not just as a food legume, but as a dedicated industrial oilseed, involving the introduction of high-oil content varieties, the development of efficient shelling and crushing facilities, and the creation of market linkages between farmer groups and industrial processors.

3.3 Palm Oil

Oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) is recognized as one of Tanzania’s eleven main food crops and is an emerging contributor to the domestic edible oil sector.¹⁶ The government has actively begun to support the development of the palm oil value chain, particularly in the Kigoma region in western Tanzania. These support measures are aimed at empowering smallholder farmers and include investments in crucial post-harvest processing equipment, such as the construction of common processing sheds and the provision of solar dryers.¹⁸

The approach to palm oil development in Tanzania appears to be following a distinct and deliberate model that contrasts sharply with the large-scale, industrial plantation systems common in Southeast Asia and parts of West Africa. The focus on supporting “farmer groups” and establishing “common processing sheds” points to a decentralized, smallholder-centric strategy.¹⁸ This model prioritizes local ownership and rural development, aiming to ensure that the economic benefits of palm oil cultivation are retained within the farming communities. It also serves to avoid the significant negative environmental and social impacts—such as large-scale deforestation and land tenure conflicts—that are often associated with the industrial plantation model.

While this community-based approach is commendable for its focus on inclusive growth and sustainability, it also raises important questions about its potential for scale. The national edible oil deficit stands at a formidable 360,000 to 370,000 tons annually.²⁴ A key strategic question for policymakers is whether a smallholder-focused model, even if successfully replicated across multiple regions, can achieve the production volumes necessary to make a substantial impact on this national deficit. It may be that a dual strategy is required, one that continues to support and strengthen the smallholder model while also exploring opportunities for medium-to-large scale “nucleus estate” models that partner with outgrower farmers to achieve greater scale in a socially and environmentally responsible manner.

3.4 Sesame Seed

Tanzania is a major player in the global sesame (Sesamum indicum) market, ranking as the fifth-largest producer in the world with an output of 561,000 tons in 2018.¹⁶ Sesame is recognized as a key oilseed crop in the country and is the focus of development support from organizations such as Farm Africa, which are working to strengthen its value chain.¹¹

However, the strategic role of sesame in Tanzania’s agricultural economy is fundamentally different from that of sunflower. While both are oilseeds, the sesame value chain is primarily structured as an export-oriented cash crop, valued for the whole seed itself, rather than as an industrial crop for domestic oil production. The country’s high global production rank is indicative of a strong export focus, as the domestic market for sesame oil is not large enough to absorb such a large volume. Like groundnuts, sesame is not prominently featured in the national discourse about solving the domestic edible oil crisis.

The international market for sesame is largely driven by its use in culinary and confectionery applications, such as the production of tahini, its inclusion in baking, and as a topping. In these markets, the quality, color, and cleanliness of the whole seed are the primary determinants of value. Therefore, the strategic imperatives for the sesame value chain are geared towards meeting the exacting standards of international buyers. Interventions should focus on improving post-harvest handling to ensure seed quality, establishing robust systems for cleaning and grading, and achieving certifications (such as organic or fair trade) that can command premium prices. Building direct trade relationships with international buyers and ensuring traceability are also critical for success. This export-driven strategy contrasts sharply with the import-substitution focus of the sunflower sector, highlighting the diverse roles that different oilseed crops play within the broader agricultural economy.

3.5 Soybean

Soybean (Glycine max) is an emerging and increasingly strategic crop in Tanzania, valued for its potential to contribute to the edible oil supply.²⁵ However, the primary driver of its recent growth is its critical role in another rapidly expanding sector: the animal feed industry.⁹ Soybeans are also recognized as an export crop, indicating their versatility in both domestic and international markets.²¹

The rise of the soybean value chain is a direct consequence of the commercialization and intensification of Tanzania’s livestock and poultry industries. As these sectors grow to meet rising domestic demand for meat and eggs, so does the demand for high-quality, protein-rich animal feed. Soybean meal, the by-product of the oil extraction process, is a primary protein component in modern animal feeds globally, and its importance is growing rapidly in Tanzania.⁹ This makes soybean a uniquely strategic “dual-purpose” crop.

The investment case for soybean is therefore exceptionally strong, as it serves two distinct and growing domestic industries simultaneously. The oil extracted from the bean can contribute to reducing the national edible oil deficit, while the remaining high-protein meal provides the essential ingredient needed to fuel the growth of the livestock sector. This dual demand structure de-risks the crop for farmers, providing them with more stable and diversified market opportunities compared to crops that serve only a single end-use. As such, soybean is not just another oilseed; it is a critical enabling crop for the modernization and intensification of Tanzania’s entire agricultural system, linking the crop sub-sector directly to the development of the livestock economy.

Section 4: The Horticultural Mosaic: A High-Growth Frontier

The horticultural sub-sector is the most diverse and dynamic component of Tanzania’s agricultural economy. Growing at a remarkable rate of 11% per year, compared to 4% for the overall agricultural sector, it has emerged as a major engine of growth and a leading source of export revenue.¹⁷ This mosaic of high-value crops encompasses a vast array of fruits, vegetables, spices, herbs, and flowers, each with its own unique value chain and market opportunities. This section provides a comprehensive exploration of this high-growth frontier.

4.1 Fruit Value Chains

Tanzania’s fruit sub-sector is characterized by its immense diversity, ranging from major, globally-traded commercial fruits to a rich variety of indigenous and exotic species primarily consumed domestically. Among the commercial leaders, Avocado has seen an explosive growth trajectory, with exports surging by 74% to 26,826 tons, valued at USD 77.3 million, and the sector is projected to grow 20% annually.¹⁷ Other major fruits include

Mango (454,000 tons produced), Pineapple (389,000 tons), Oranges (373,000 tons), and Bananas, for which Tanzania is the world’s 10th largest producer with 3.4 million tons.¹⁶ The highlands, particularly the Dodoma region, are also home to a growing

Grape industry that supports domestic wine production.²⁸

Alongside these commercial giants, there exists a vibrant tapestry of other tropical, exotic, and indigenous fruits. These include Passion Fruit, Papaya, Guava, Jackfruit (local name: Fenesi), Tamarind (Ukwaju), the uniquely tangy Bungo (Rubber Vine), Wild Soursop (Mstafeli), Durian, Rambutan (Shokishoki), Starfruit (Mbilimbi), Zanzibar Olives (Zaitun), and Coconuts, with Tanzania being the 11th largest global producer at 546,000 tons.¹⁶ The cooler highland regions also support the cultivation of temperate fruits such as

Apples, Pears, Plums, and Peaches.²⁸

An analysis of this diverse landscape reveals that the fruit sub-sector is evolving along two distinct and parallel strategic pathways. The first is a highly formalized, capital-intensive, and export-oriented value chain centered on a few “champion” crops, with avocado being the prime example. This pathway is driven by significant private investment, adherence to stringent international quality and safety standards (e.g., GlobalG.A.P.), and sophisticated cold chain logistics to serve lucrative markets in Europe and the Middle East.¹⁷

The second pathway is a vast, largely informal, and domestically-focused value chain for the wide diversity of traditional and indigenous fruits. These fruits, such as Bungo and Mstafeli, are primarily traded in local markets and sold at roadside stands, often for direct consumption or small-scale juice production.²⁹ This informal sector holds enormous, untapped potential for local economic development, nutrition improvement, and value addition. The key policy challenge is twofold: to continue providing the enabling environment of infrastructure and trade facilitation needed for the high-flying export crops to thrive, while simultaneously designing and implementing targeted programs to commercialize and add value to the diverse portfolio of traditional fruits. Developing processing capacity for these local fruits—into shelf-stable juices, jams, dried fruit snacks, and other products—could create significant rural employment, drastically reduce post-harvest losses, and improve nutrition by making these vitamin-rich foods available year-round in convenient forms. This would tap into a completely different market segment from the high-end avocado export trade, fostering more inclusive growth across the entire sub-sector.

4.2 Vegetable Value Chains

The vegetable value chain in Tanzania is a cornerstone of both the national diet and a growing source of income for smallholder farmers. The sector is led by a few key commercial crops, including Tomatoes, with an annual production of 356,000 tons, which are grown for both the large domestic market and for regional export to countries like Kenya and Uganda.¹⁶ Other major commercial vegetables include

Onions, which are a significant crop in the highlands, Cabbages, Carrots, and Green Peppers.²⁸ The sub-sector also includes a wide variety of other cultivated vegetables such as

Eggplant, Okra, Spinach, Lettuce, Kale, Cucumber, Peas, Cauliflower, and Leeks, catering to diverse consumer preferences.¹⁶

However, a critical and often undervalued component of this sub-sector is the rich diversity of African Indigenous Vegetables (AIVs). These include highly nutritious leafy greens such as Amaranth (local name: Mchicha), African Nightshade (Mnavu), Jute Mallow (Mlenda), Spider Plant, and Pumpkin Leaves.³² Research has shown that these traditional vegetables are nutritionally superior to many of the commonly consumed exotic vegetables like Chinese cabbage, offering significantly higher levels of essential micronutrients like Vitamin A and iron.³²

Despite their nutritional advantages, a fundamental disconnect exists between their public health importance and the focus of the commercial market and agricultural research. The formal sector, including private seed companies and large-scale commercial efforts, tends to concentrate on improving and promoting the non-traditional cash crops like tomatoes and sweet peppers, for which there is established market demand.³² This creates a market failure: the vegetables with the highest potential to combat malnutrition and improve public health outcomes, particularly among children and women, receive the least investment and attention from the formal value chain.

This gap highlights the essential role that public policy and development partners must play. The promotion of indigenous vegetables cannot be left to market forces alone. It requires deliberate public and non-profit interventions. These include supporting research to improve the yields and resilience of AIVs, developing a formal system for the production and distribution of quality seeds, launching public awareness campaigns to educate consumers about their nutritional benefits, and working to integrate these vegetables into formal supply chains, such as school feeding programs and urban supermarkets. Such initiatives should be viewed not merely as agricultural projects, but as critical public health interventions that are essential for achieving Tanzania’s national nutrition and food security goals.

4.3 Spices, Herbs, and Aromatic Plants

Tanzania possesses a rich and storied heritage in the cultivation of spices, a legacy embodied by the Zanzibar archipelago’s famous “Spice Islands” identity.²³ This sub-sector is a key part of the nation’s horticultural mosaic, producing a wide range of aromatic products for both export and domestic markets. The most important spices, in terms of both economic value and production volume, are

Cloves, Black Pepper, Cinnamon, Cardamom, and Ginger.²²

The diversity of the spice sub-sector extends well beyond these five leaders. Other significant spices cultivated across the country include Chillies, a category that encompasses various types including the high-value Paprika and Bird’s Eye Chili; Vanilla, a high-value crop grown in the Kagera and Kilimanjaro regions; Coriander, produced almost entirely in the Singida region; Garlic; Lemongrass; and Nutmeg.²²

Red Onions are also classified and produced as a major spice crop.²² In addition to spices, Tanzania also cultivates various herbs, with

Mint and Chives being notable examples.¹⁶ The production landscape is dominated by smallholder farmers, many of whom employ traditional, low-input agronomic practices passed down through generations.²²

The greatest asset of Tanzania’s spice sub-sector is its powerful brand and provenance. Names like “Zanzibar” and “Spice Islands” evoke a sense of quality, authenticity, and history that is a priceless marketing tool in the global food industry. However, the sector is significantly constrained by fragmented production systems and a reliance on traditional, often rudimentary, post-harvest handling techniques. The widespread use of basic sun-drying methods on mats, for example, can lead to contamination and inconsistent quality.²² This results in a product that often fails to meet the highest international standards, preventing producers from capturing premium prices. For instance, much of the cinnamon is traded as lower-value, thick chips harvested from old trees, rather than as the more valuable, standardized quills produced from managed plantations.²²

The global spice market is becoming increasingly sophisticated and demanding, with buyers placing a premium on quality, safety (e.g., low aflatoxin levels), traceability, and third-party certifications (such as Organic and Fair Trade). To move up the value chain and fully capitalize on its world-class brand, the Tanzanian spice sector must bridge the gap between its traditional production methods and these modern market requirements. This necessitates targeted investment in farmer training on good agricultural practices, the establishment of centralized, modern drying and processing facilities to ensure quality and consistency, and the development of robust quality control and certification systems. The strategic goal is to ensure that the world-class “Spice Islands” brand is backed by a consistently world-class product.

4.4 Floriculture and Emerging Horticultural Nuts

At the cutting edge of Tanzania’s agricultural diversification strategy are high-value, non-traditional horticultural products, including floriculture and new tree nut crops. The Floriculture industry, which involves the cultivation of Flowers (such as roses and gerbera) and cuttings for export, represents a highly specialized and lucrative segment of the export market.¹¹

An even more recent and high-potential development is the introduction of Macadamia nuts as a new commercial value chain. Spearheaded by the Tanzania Horticultural Association (TAHA), macadamia farming is being promoted as a transformative opportunity for farmers with the capacity for long-term investment. The projected returns are exceptionally high, with estimates suggesting that a well-managed 10-acre farm could generate up to US$120,000 in annual revenue.¹⁷ In addition to macadamia,

Cocoa is also being developed and supported as a horticultural nut crop, distinct from its traditional classification.³⁷

These value chains—floriculture and macadamia nuts—represent a different model of agricultural development compared to traditional staple or cash crops. They are not activities that can be easily adopted by all smallholders; they are knowledge-intensive, capital-intensive, and require a long-term investment horizon, particularly for tree crops like macadamia. Their success is almost entirely dependent on the export market, and their products are often highly perishable (especially flowers), which makes them critically reliant on sophisticated and unbroken cold chain logistics, efficient air freight services, and direct access to international buyers.

Therefore, fostering the growth of these niche sectors requires a highly targeted and supportive ecosystem. Unlike staple crops, which can be supported through broad-based public extension services, these industries need specialized technical expertise, often provided by industry associations like TAHA.¹⁷ They also require access to patient capital and specialized financing that understands the unique cash flow cycles of these businesses. Public investment plays a crucial role, not in direct farm-level support, but in providing the critical enabling infrastructure, such as modernizing cargo facilities at international airports and ensuring a reliable power supply for cold storage. The success of these high-value niches will serve as a test case for Tanzania’s ability to compete in the most demanding and sophisticated segments of the global agricultural market.

Section 5: Foundational Sustenance: Root & Tuber Crop Value Chains

The root and tuber crop cluster forms a critical food security bedrock for Tanzania, providing a reliable source of calories and sustenance, particularly for the most vulnerable rural populations. These crops are characterized by their resilience in challenging agronomic conditions and their fundamental role in the national diet. This section analyzes the value chains of cassava, sweet potatoes, Irish potatoes, and yams, exploring not only their traditional role but also their growing potential for value addition, commercialization, and integration into the broader industrial economy.

5.1 Cassava (Manioc)

Cassava (Manihot esculenta), known locally as Mihogo, is a cornerstone of food security in Tanzania. The country is a major global producer, ranking 12th in the world with an output of 5 million tons in 2018.¹⁶ It is the second most important root and tuber crop in the nation and is considered a main food staple.²⁰ The crop’s immense value lies in its remarkable resilience; it is capable of producing a yield even in poor soils and can survive prolonged periods of drought, making it a vital famine-reserve crop.³⁵ Both the starchy tubers and the protein-rich young leaves are consumed, the latter providing an important source of vitamins.³⁵ Despite its ubiquity, cassava is often categorized as an indigenous crop whose full commercial and trading potential remains significantly underestimated.¹²

Historically, cassava has been viewed primarily through a subsistence lens, a low-input crop for household consumption. However, it is now on the cusp of a transformation into a potential industrial powerhouse. The key to unlocking this potential lies in moving the crop beyond direct consumption and developing its capacity as a versatile raw material for a range of processed goods, including high-quality cassava flour (HQCF) for the baking industry, industrial starch for manufacturing, and dried chips for animal feed production.³⁹

This transition is not without challenges. A major barrier to wider commercial adoption has been public health concerns related to the presence of cyanogenic glycosides in some “bitter” varieties, which can be toxic if not properly processed.³⁵ Overcoming this requires a two-pronged strategy. The first track involves agronomic research and extension: breeding, multiplying, and disseminating improved, low-cyanide or “sweet” varieties to farmers. The second, and equally critical, track involves investment in modern, industrial-scale processing technology. Such facilities can safely and efficiently process large volumes of raw cassava, transforming a highly perishable and potentially hazardous root into a range of safe, shelf-stable, and high-value industrial ingredients. By successfully implementing this dual strategy, Tanzania can elevate cassava from a simple food security crop to a major driver of agro-industrial development and economic growth.

5.2 Sweet Potatoes

The sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) value chain is another pillar of Tanzania’s food system, with the country ranking as the fourth-largest producer in the world, yielding 3.8 million tons in 2018.¹⁶ It is the nation’s third most important root and tuber crop and plays a crucial role in household food security, with a significant portion of production dedicated to home consumption.³⁸

The sweet potato value chain stands out as a leading example of the successful integration of agricultural production with public health and nutrition objectives. This is most evident in the widespread promotion of Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato (OFSP) varieties. These cultivars have been specifically bred to be rich in beta-carotene, a precursor to Vitamin A. Their dissemination is a deliberate, science-driven strategy to use the food system as a vehicle for biofortification to combat Vitamin A deficiency, which is a major public health concern, particularly among young children and pregnant women.²⁷ This positions the sweet potato value chain as a model for nutrition-sensitive agriculture.

In addition to its nutritional importance, the sector also exhibits a growing focus on post-harvest management and value addition. In regions like the Lake Zone, it is common practice for farmers to process fresh roots into sun-dried chips and slices, known locally as Matoborwa and Michembe.³⁸ This traditional processing method serves two vital functions: it reduces the significant post-harvest losses associated with the perishable fresh roots, and it creates a shelf-stable food product that ensures the availability of this nutritious food source throughout the year, especially during the “lean season” before the next harvest. The dual identity of the sweet potato—as both a key food security crop and an active public health delivery mechanism—makes its value chain a particularly attractive area for investment and support from a wide range of development partners, including those focused on agriculture, health, and nutrition.

5.3 Potatoes (Irish/Round Potatoes)

The Irish potato, also known as the round potato (Solanum tuberosum), is a main food crop in Tanzania, with a substantial production of 1.7 million tons recorded in 2018.¹⁶ Its cultivation is concentrated in the cool, highland areas of the country, with the Southern Highlands regions of Njombe, Mbeya, and Iringa being the primary production zones.¹¹

The growth of the Irish potato value chain is increasingly being driven by powerful socio-economic trends, particularly rapid urbanization and the associated shifts in dietary preferences. As more of the population moves to cities and household incomes rise, there is a growing demand for convenience foods and a diversification of diets away from purely traditional staples. This has created a strong and expanding market for processed potato products, most notably potato crisps (chips) and frozen French fries for the restaurant and hospitality sector.¹⁸

However, the ability of local production to meet this growing demand is hampered by a fundamental challenge that is common to potato sectors worldwide: the lack of a formal, high-quality seed system. Potatoes are vegetatively propagated from tubers, which makes them highly susceptible to the accumulation of viral and bacterial diseases over successive planting cycles. When farmers rely on saving their own tubers for seed, as is common in informal systems, yields inevitably decline over time as the disease load increases. The development of a modern, competitive potato industry hinges on breaking this cycle. The most critical strategic intervention required to modernize the value chain is the establishment of a certified seed potato multiplication system. This would involve creating disease-free mother stock through techniques like tissue culture, followed by a structured system of multiplication by specialized seed growers, and finally, distribution of this clean, high-quality seed to commercial farmers. Such a system is the essential prerequisite for boosting yields, improving quality, and providing the consistent supply of suitable potato varieties needed to support a growing domestic processing industry.

5.4 Yams & Taro (Dasheen/Eddoe)

Yams (Dioscorea spp.) and Taro (Colocasia esculenta), known in Kiswahili as Magimbi, are important traditional root and tuber crops that form part of Tanzania’s rich agricultural heritage.³⁵ Taro, which includes both the Dasheen and Eddoe types, is a tropical plant that thrives in humid conditions. It is a versatile crop where not only the starchy underground corms but also the petioles (leaf stalks) and leaves are consumed after cooking, making it a valuable source of both calories and green vegetables.³⁵

These indigenous root crops hold significant cultural importance and contribute to dietary diversity, but they are economically marginalized compared to the more dominant staples. While they are mentioned alongside cassava and sweet potatoes as key root crops, they receive far less attention in national production statistics and strategic agricultural planning documents.³⁹ The detailed botanical, cultivation, and usage information available for a crop like Taro suggests that a deep well of indigenous knowledge surrounding its production and preparation exists within farming communities.³⁵

Yams and taro risk being progressively displaced, both on farms and in diets, by the more commercially dominant and aggressively promoted staples like maize, rice, and cassava. This could lead to an irreversible loss of valuable genetic resources and a narrowing of the nation’s culinary heritage. However, a powerful global food trend that focuses on rediscovering “ancient grains” and “heritage vegetables” presents a unique opportunity for their revival. The path to preserving and promoting these crops lies in actively marketing their unique culinary attributes, nutritional benefits, and cultural significance. The opportunity is to reposition them as premium, traditional foods, targeting niche domestic urban markets, the tourism industry, and diaspora communities that place a high value on authenticity, unique flavors, and a connection to cultural heritage. Without a concerted effort to build these niche value chains, these important crops may fade into obscurity.

Section 6: The Protein Powerhouse: Pulse & Legume Value Chains

The pulse and legume cluster is a vital component of Tanzania’s agricultural sector, playing a multifaceted role that extends far beyond simple crop production. These crops are a cornerstone of national nutrition, providing the most affordable and accessible source of plant-based protein for millions of households. They are also essential for sustainable farming systems, as their ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen enriches the soil and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers. Finally, several pulse crops have become significant sources of export income. This section covers the value chains of beans, pigeon peas, chickpeas, and other important legumes.

6.1 Common Beans

The common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) is a nutritional powerhouse and a dominant force in Tanzania’s domestic food market. The country is the sixth-largest producer in the world, with an output of 1.2 million tons in 2018.¹⁶ After maize and cassava, beans are the third most important staple crop and are considered absolutely critical for national food and nutrition security.⁴⁰ Their centrality in the Tanzanian diet is reflected in a high per capita consumption of approximately 19 kg per year.⁴¹ The value chain is overwhelmingly oriented toward the domestic market, with an estimated 68% of all production consumed within the country. The remainder is exported, primarily to regional African markets.⁴¹ Consumer preference within Tanzania is strong for local varieties, particularly the yellow bean.⁴¹

Given this context, the common bean value chain is fundamentally a domestic market powerhouse. Its primary strategic importance lies in its role as the main source of affordable protein for the majority of the population. Unlike other pulses that are heavily export-focused, the greatest challenge for the bean sector is not finding new markets but rather increasing productivity to ensure a stable and affordable supply for a rapidly growing domestic population.

Productivity levels are currently very low, with average farmer yields around 799 kg per hectare, significantly below the potential of over 1,200 kg per hectare.⁴⁰ This yield gap is largely attributed to the widespread use of saved, poor-quality seed over many generations, which leads to low genetic potential and a buildup of seed-borne diseases, as well as significant losses from pests like weevils.⁴⁰ Therefore, the most pressing strategic issue for the bean value chain is a domestic one. Boosting yields through the development and dissemination of improved, high-yielding, and disease-resistant bean varieties is paramount. Failure to address this productivity challenge could lead to rising bean prices, which would disproportionately affect the poorest households and could result in increased food insecurity and malnutrition.

6.2 Pigeon Peas & Chickpeas

Pigeon peas (Cajanus cajan) and chickpeas (Cicer arietinum) are major export-oriented pulses that play a significant role in generating foreign exchange for Tanzania.⁴² Production volumes are substantial, with annual output estimated at around 150,000 metric tons for pigeon peas and 80,000 metric tons for chickpeas.⁴¹ Unlike common beans, the value chains for these two pulses are almost entirely geared towards international markets. It is estimated that over 90% of the production of both crops is exported.⁴¹

Historically, this export trade has been overwhelmingly dominated by a single destination: India, the world’s largest consumer of pulses.⁴¹ This extreme market concentration has created a high-risk environment for the entire sector, making it profoundly vulnerable to shifts in Indian trade policy. The devastating consequences of this dependency were starkly illustrated when India imposed import restrictions, causing the market to collapse. Prices for pigeon peas plummeted from a high of USD $2.00 per kilogram to less than USD $0.20 per kilogram, leading to catastrophic financial losses for farmers and traders, with an estimated USD $45 million worth of pigeon peas left to rot in the fields because it was uneconomical to harvest.⁴¹

This market shock served as a harsh lesson in the dangers of over-dependence on a single export market. The long-term survival and sustainable growth of the pigeon pea and chickpea sectors are now entirely contingent on the successful implementation of a dual strategy focused on market diversification and domestic value addition. The first pillar of this strategy is to aggressively seek and develop new export markets beyond India. Potential destinations include other parts of Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and the broader African continent, where demand for pulses is also growing.⁴⁰ The second, and equally important, pillar is to create alternative demand channels by developing a domestic market for these pulses. This involves investing in processing facilities to create value-added products. For example, processing pigeon peas into

dhal (split peas) or canning chickpeas would create products for the local consumer market and for export as finished goods rather than raw commodities. This would build resilience into the value chain, creating a crucial buffer against the inherent volatility of the global raw pulse trade.

6.3 Cowpeas, Lentils (Red & Yellow), & Green Grams (Mung Beans)

In addition to the major pulse crops, Tanzania cultivates a variety of other important legumes that contribute to food security and farmer incomes. This “middle tier” of the pulse sector includes Cowpeas (Vigna unguiculata), Lentils (Lens culinaris), and Green Grams (Vigna radiata), also known as mung beans. Production of cowpeas is estimated at 50,000-60,000 metric tons annually, while green gram production is around 90,000 metric tons.⁴¹ Both

Red and Yellow Lentils are also widely cultivated across many regions of the country.⁴³

These pulses occupy a strategic space between the domestically-focused common bean and the export-dependent pigeon pea. Cowpea, for example, is described as being mostly a subsistence crop, but with a significant portion being sold into local and regional markets, indicating that it is in a transitional phase from subsistence to commercialization.⁴¹ The markets for these pulses are generally more diversified than that for pigeon peas, with trade occurring primarily within the East and Southern African region.

These crops are crucial for regional food security and offer significant opportunities for value chain formalization and upgrading. The Tanzanian Pulses Network (TPN), a multi-stakeholder platform, includes these pulses in its mandate, signaling a collective interest in their development.⁴¹ The primary opportunity lies in moving these value chains from the informal to the formal sector. This involves interventions aimed at improving quality and consistency to meet the standards of more demanding buyers. Key areas for investment include the development and distribution of improved seed varieties, the establishment of farmer cooperatives or aggregation centers to create economies of scale, and investment in modern cleaning, grading, and packaging facilities. By upgrading the quality of their product, Tanzanian producers can capture more value and access more lucrative and stable regional markets, such as formal food processors, supermarket chains, and institutional buyers like the World Food Programme.

6.4 Bambara Groundnut

The Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea) is an indigenous African legume that holds immense but largely unrecognized potential within Tanzania’s agricultural landscape. It is explicitly identified as an underestimated indigenous crop that, unlike many other pulses, has not yet been developed to reach the export market.¹² Despite its current neglect, its strategic importance is gaining recognition. In a recent stakeholder workshop organized to identify key “opportunity crops” for future development, the Bambara groundnut was prioritized as one of five key Neglected and Underutilized Species (NUS) in Tanzania.⁴⁴

This prioritization signals the beginning of a crucial transition for the crop, moving it from the margins of agricultural research and policy toward the mainstream. The Bambara groundnut possesses several key traits that make it an ideal candidate for promotion in the context of Tanzania’s future food security and climate adaptation challenges. It is known to be highly drought-tolerant, making it well-suited to the country’s semi-arid regions. It is also highly nutritious, providing a balanced source of protein, carbohydrates, and micronutrients, earning it a reputation as a “complete food.”

The selection of the Bambara groundnut as a priority crop by a diverse group of stakeholders, including researchers, civil society, and government representatives, is a powerful indicator of emerging interest and a commitment to its development.⁴⁴ It is now poised to benefit from targeted research and development efforts aimed at transforming it from an underutilized indigenous crop into a climate-resilient and nutritionally valuable modern commodity. The path forward will likely involve a complete value chain development process, starting from the ground up. This will include agronomic research to select and breed higher-yielding varieties, the development of new and appealing food products to increase its consumer acceptance, and the establishment of market linkages to connect farmers with buyers. The story of the Bambara groundnut is a compelling example of the potential that lies hidden within Africa’s rich agrobiodiversity.

Section 7: Strategic Synthesis and Forward Outlook

A comprehensive analysis of Tanzania’s more than 120 crop value chains reveals an agricultural sector at a pivotal moment of transformation. While immense progress has been made, particularly in boosting production volumes and diversifying exports, the sector’s future growth and sustainability depend on addressing a series of cross-cutting, systemic challenges. This concluding section synthesizes the key themes identified throughout this report and provides a forward outlook on the strategic imperatives required to realize the nation’s ambitious agricultural goals.

The Blurring Line Between Food and Cash Crops: A fundamental paradigm shift is underway, challenging the traditional dichotomy between crops grown for subsistence and those grown for export. The most powerful examples are rice and maize. Once viewed primarily through the lens of food security, these staples have become major foreign exchange earners, with rice exports in some years surpassing those of several traditional cash crops combined.¹ This blurring of lines necessitates a more integrated and commercially-oriented approach to agricultural policy, where every value chain is assessed for its potential to contribute to food security, rural incomes, and export earnings simultaneously.

The Productivity Paradox: A persistent paradox defines the sector: Tanzania ranks as a top global producer by volume for a wide range of crops—including sweet potatoes (4th), beans (6th), and cashews (8th)—yet it simultaneously suffers from chronically low yields per hectare across almost all value chains.¹⁶ Cereal yields, for instance, are less than half the world average.⁵ This indicates that past growth has been driven more by expanding the area under cultivation than by intensification—an unsustainable path. The root causes of this productivity gap are systemic: poor farmer access to quality inputs, particularly improved seeds and fertilizers ²; an over-reliance on rain-fed agriculture with limited irrigation infrastructure; and the need for revitalized and better-equipped agricultural extension services to bridge the gap between research and farm-level practice.³

The Imperative of Value Addition: A massive and largely untapped economic opportunity lies in transitioning from an exporter of raw agricultural commodities to a producer and exporter of processed, value-added goods. This theme resonates across every cluster. The potential exists to transform raw cashews into processed kernels, cashew apples into juice, and shells into industrial liquid ⁷; to convert raw cotton into textiles and garments ³; to process the abundance of local fruits into juices, jams, and dried snacks ²⁹; and to mill raw cassava into high-quality flour for the baking industry.³⁹ Capturing this value domestically would create millions of jobs, significantly increase export earnings, and build a more resilient and sophisticated economy.

Climate Resilience and the Power of Diversity: The agricultural sector’s heavy reliance on a few rain-fed staple crops, particularly maize, creates significant vulnerability to the impacts of climate change.⁸ A core strategy for de-risking the entire food system is to embrace and strategically promote Tanzania’s rich agrobiodiversity. Investing in the research, development, and market creation for drought-tolerant, indigenous crops—such as sorghum, millet, cassava, sweet potato, and the Bambara groundnut—is not just a matter of preserving heritage; it is a critical climate adaptation strategy.⁹ These crops are better suited to marginal environments and can provide a crucial buffer against the climate-induced shocks that threaten the maize-based system.

Forward Outlook

The government’s “Agenda 10/30,” which targets a 10% annual agricultural growth rate and USD 5 billion in export earnings by 2030, provides a clear and ambitious framework for the sector’s future.² The findings of this report suggest that these goals, while ambitious, are achievable. However, success will require a disciplined and strategic focus on solving the systemic bottlenecks that currently constrain the sector’s potential. The path forward must be paved with targeted investments and policies aimed at:

Closing the Yield Gap: Prioritizing the development of a robust domestic seed industry and ensuring the affordable and timely delivery of improved seeds and fertilizers to smallholder farmers.
Building Domestic Processing Capacity: Creating an attractive investment climate and providing targeted support for the establishment of agro-processing facilities across all key value chains.
Diversifying Markets and Products: Actively seeking new international markets to reduce dependency on single buyers and promoting product diversification to capture value in high-margin niches.
Investing in Climate-Smart Agriculture: Mainstreaming the promotion of drought-tolerant indigenous crops and investing in water management and irrigation infrastructure to build a more resilient food system.

By addressing these strategic imperatives, Tanzania can transform its agricultural potential into shared and sustainable prosperity, securing its position as a leading agricultural powerhouse in Africa.

Appendix: Comprehensive Catalogue of Tanzanian Crop Value Chains

The following table provides a detailed, though not exhaustive, list of over 120 crop value chains identified as being cultivated in Tanzania, organized by the six primary agricultural clusters.

No.	Cluster	Sub-Category	Common Name	Alternative/Local Name(s)	Scientific Name	Key Value Chain Characteristics & Notes
1	Cereals	Major Cereals	Maize	Corn	Zea mays	Dominant staple food, major regional export, key animal feed ingredient.
2			Rice	Paddy	Oryza sativa	Second most important staple, major export crop, key to government strategy.
3			Sorghum		Sorghum bicolor	Drought-tolerant staple for arid zones, growing use in animal feed. Indigenous.
4			Millet		Pennisetum glaucum, Eleusine coracana	Includes Bulrush and Finger Millet. Drought-resilient, nutritious. Indigenous.
5			Wheat		Triticum aestivum	Grown in northern highlands; key import substitution crop.
6		Minor Cereals	Barley		Hordeum vulgare	Minor cultivation, potential for brewing industry.
7			Oats		Avena sativa	Minor cultivation, niche health food market potential.
8			Rye		Secale cereale	Minor cultivation.
9			Buckwheat		Fagopyrum esculentum	Minor cultivation.
10			Fonio	Acha	Digitaria exilis	Indigenous African grain, highly nutritious, drought-tolerant. Underutilized.
11			Teff		Eragrostis tef	Indigenous African grain, high in iron. Underutilized.
12	Traditional Cash Crops	Major Cash Crops	Coffee (Arabica)	Kilimanjaro Coffee	Coffea arabica	High-value export, strong brand identity, grown in highlands.
13			Coffee (Robusta)		Coffea canephora	Grown in Kagera region, used in blends.
14			Cashew Nut		Anacardium occidentale	Major export earner, focus on increasing domestic processing.
15			Cotton		Gossypium spp.	Key industrial input for domestic textile industry.
16			Tobacco		Nicotiana tabacum	Major export, faces environmental sustainability challenges (deforestation).
17			Sisal		Agave sisalana	Historical crop with new potential in biofuels and bio-composites.
18			Tea		Camellia sinensis	Grown in highlands, heavily dependent on irrigation.
19			Sugarcane		Saccharum officinarum	Major industrial crop for sugar production, import substitution.
20			Pyrethrum		Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium	Source of natural insecticide, high-value niche export for organic markets.
21			Cloves		Syzygium aromaticum	Major spice export, cornerstone of Zanzibar’s economy and tourism brand.
22	Oil Seeds	Major Oil Seeds	Sunflower		Helianthus annuus	Primary oilseed for import substitution; seed quality is a major constraint.
23			Groundnut	Peanut	Arachis hypogaea	High production volume, but underutilized for industrial oil processing.
24			Sesame		Sesamum indicum	Major export crop, valued for whole seed in international culinary markets.
25			Oil Palm		Elaeis guineensis	Emerging value chain, developed via smallholder-focused models.
26			Soybean		Glycine max	Dual-purpose crop for edible oil and high-protein animal feed.
27	Horticulture	Fruits (Major Commercial)	Avocado	Parachichi	Persea americana	Rapidly growing export champion, high-value crop.
28			Mango	Embe	Mangifera indica	Major domestic and regional fruit, with many local varieties.
29			Pineapple	Nanasi	Ananas comosus	Widely cultivated for domestic market and juice processing.
30			Orange	Chungwa	Citrus sinensis	Major citrus fruit, widely consumed.
31			Banana (Dessert)	Ndizi Mbivu	Musa spp.	Major staple and fruit, with numerous varieties.
32			Banana (Cooking)	Ndizi Bukoba, Mshale	Musa spp.	Staple food in many regions, cooked green.
33			Plantain	Ndizi Mzuzu	Musa spp. (AAB group)	Starchy staple, cooked.
34			Grape	Zabibu	Vitis vinifera	Grown in Dodoma region, supports a domestic wine industry.
35			Passion Fruit	Pesheni	Passiflora edulis	Popular for fresh consumption and juice.
36			Papaya	Papai	Carica papaya	Common tropical fruit grown nationwide.
37			Guava	Pera	Psidium guajava	Common fruit, high in Vitamin C.
38			Watermelon	Tikiti Maji	Citrullus lanatus	Popular seasonal fruit.
39			Coconut	Nazi (Dafu for young)	Cocos nucifera	Major crop in coastal areas, for oil, milk, and fresh consumption.
40		Fruits (Indigenous & Exotic)	Jackfruit	Fenesi	Artocarpus heterophyllus	Large fruit consumed fresh or as juice.
41			Tamarind	Ukwaju	Tamarindus indica	Tangy fruit used in cooking and for juice.
42			Bungo	Rubber Vine	Saba comorensis	Indigenous fruit with a unique tangy flavor, popular for juice.
43			Wild Soursop	Mstafeli, Matopetope	Annona senegalensis	Indigenous fruit with a pear-like taste.
44			Durian		Durio zibethinus	Grown in Zanzibar, known for its pungent smell and unique taste.
45			Rambutan	Shokishoki	Nephelium lappaceum	Southeast Asian fruit also grown in Zanzibar.
46			Starfruit	Mbilimbi, Carambola	Averrhoa carambola	Tangy, star-shaped fruit grown in coastal areas.
47			Zanzibar Olive	Zaitun	Syzygium cumini	Sweet, fleshy fruit native to Zanzibar.
48			Breadfruit		Artocarpus altilis	Starchy fruit, can be cooked as a staple.
49			Pomelo	Balungi	Citrus maxima	Large citrus fruit.
50			Indian Almond	Kungu	Terminalia catappa	Coastal tree with edible seeds.
51			Lychee		Litchi chinensis	Grown in some areas, similar to rambutan.
52			Pomegranate	Komamanga	Punica granatum	Grown for its seeds and juice.
53			Pitaya	Dragon Fruit	Hylocereus spp.	Exotic fruit being introduced.
54			Ximenia		Ximenia americana	Indigenous wild fruit.
55			Governor’s Plum		Flacourtia indica	Indigenous fruit.
56			Kei Apple		Dovyalis caffra	Indigenous fruit.
57			Carob		Ceratonia siliqua	Introduced, pods have sweet pulp.
58			Natal Plum		Carissa macrocarpa	Edible fruit, sometimes grown as a hedge.
59			Black Plum		Vitex doniana	Indigenous fruit.
60			Surinam Cherry		Eugenia uniflora	Introduced fruit.
61			Indian Jujube		Ziziphus mauritiana	Drought-resistant fruit.
62			Panama Berry		Muntingia calabura	Fast-growing tree with small, sweet berries.
63		Fruits (Temperate)	Apple		Malus domestica	Grown in cool highland areas.
64			Pear		Pyrus spp.	Grown in cool highland areas.
65			Plum		Prunus spp.	Grown in cool highland areas.
66			Peach		Prunus persica	Grown in cool highland areas.
67			Strawberry		Fragaria x ananassa	High-value berry grown in highlands.
68			Blackberry		Rubus spp.	Grown in highlands.
69		Fruits (Citrus)	Lime	Ndimu	Citrus aurantiifolia	Widely used in cooking and drinks.
70			Tangerine	Chenza	Citrus tangerina	Popular citrus fruit.
71			Lemon	Limau	Citrus limon	Widely grown citrus.
72		Vegetables (Major Commercial)	Tomato	Nyanya	Solanum lycopersicum	Most widely grown vegetable, for domestic and regional markets.
73			Onion	Kitunguu	Allium cepa	Major vegetable crop, especially in highlands.
74			Cabbage	Kabichi	Brassica oleracea var. capitata	Common leafy vegetable.
75			Carrot	Karoti	Daucus carota	Widely cultivated root vegetable.
76			Sweet Pepper	Pilipili Hoho	Capsicum annuum	Also known as Bell Pepper or Capsicum.
77			Eggplant	Bilingani	Solanum melongena	Common vegetable in many dishes.
78			Cucumber	Tango	Cucumis sativus	Common salad vegetable.
79			Okra	Bamia	Abelmoschus esculentus	Valued for its pods, used as a thickener.
80			Spinach	Spinachi	Spinacia oleracea	Common leafy green.
81			Lettuce		Lactuca sativa	Salad green, grown in cooler areas.
82			Kale		Brassica oleracea var. acephala	Nutritious leafy green.
83			Peas (Green)	Njegere	Pisum sativum	Grown in cooler highland areas.
84			Cauliflower		Brassica oleracea var. botrytis	Grown in some regions.
85			Leek		Allium porrum	Minor vegetable crop.
86			Beetroot		Beta vulgaris	Root vegetable.
87			Baby Corn		Zea mays	Harvested from regular corn plants when immature.
88			Baby Marrow		Cucurbita pepo	A type of summer squash.
89		Vegetables (Indigenous)	Amaranth	Mchicha	Amaranthus spp.	Most common indigenous leafy green, highly nutritious.
90			African Nightshade	Mnavu	Solanum nigrum complex	Highly nutritious leafy green, with several local varieties.
91			Jute Mallow	Mlenda, Bamia Pori	Corchorus olitorius	Slimy leafy green used in stews.
92			African Eggplant	Ngogwe	Solanum aethiopicum	Different from common eggplant, often more bitter.
93			Spider Plant		Cleome gynandra	Pungent leafy green, cooked.
94			Pumpkin Leaves		Cucurbita spp.	Leaves of the pumpkin plant, cooked as a vegetable.
95			Cowpea Leaves		Vigna unguiculata	Leaves of the cowpea plant, cooked as a vegetable.
96			Cassava Leaves	Kisamvu	Manihot esculenta	Leaves of the cassava plant, pounded and cooked.
97			Sweet Potato Leaves		Ipomoea batatas	Leaves of the sweet potato plant, cooked as a vegetable.
98			Fat Hen	Mboga	Chenopodium album	Leafy green, often grows as a weed.
99			Silver Spinach		Celosia trigyna	Leafy green.
100			Kangkong	Water Spinach	Ipomoea aquatica	Grows in wet areas.
101			Bitter Cucumber		Momordica charantia	Bitter fruit and leaves are cooked.
102		Spices & Herbs	Black Pepper	Pilipili Manga	Piper nigrum	Major spice, grown in Morogoro and Tanga.
103			Cinnamon	Mdalasini	Cinnamomum zeylanicum	Bark is used as a spice, potential for quality improvement.
104			Cardamom	Iliki	Elettaria cardamomum	High-value spice grown in shady forest environments.
105			Ginger	Tangawizi	Zingiber officinale	Rhizome used fresh and dried.
106			Chilli Pepper	Pilipili Kali	Capsicum spp.	Includes various hot peppers like Bird’s Eye.
107			Paprika		Capsicum annuum	A type of mild chilli, dried and ground.
108			Vanilla		Vanilla planifolia	High-value spice, intercropped with banana/coffee.
109			Coriander	Giligilani	Coriandrum sativum	Grown for seeds in Singida region.
110			Garlic	Kitunguu Saumu	Allium sativum	Important flavoring.
111			Lemongrass	Mchaichai	Cymbopogon spp.	Aromatic grass used in cooking and for oil.
112			Nutmeg		Myristica fragrans	Minor spice crop.
113			Mint		Mentha spp.	Aromatic herb.
114			Chives		Allium schoenoprasum	Herb from the onion family.
115		Floriculture & Nuts	Flowers		Various	Includes Roses, Gerbera, and others for export.
116			Macadamia Nut		Macadamia spp.	Emerging high-value export nut crop.
117			Cocoa		Theobroma cacao	Grown as a horticultural nut.
118	Roots & Tubers	Major Tubers	Cassava	Mihogo	Manihot esculenta	Major staple, drought-resistant, potential for industrial processing.
119			Sweet Potato	Viazi Vitamu	Ipomoea batatas	Major staple, key for nutrition (OFSP for Vitamin A).
120			Potato	Viazi Mviringo	Solanum tuberosum	Irish/Round Potato. Major crop in highlands, growing processing demand.
121		Minor Tubers	Yams		Dioscorea spp.	Indigenous tuber, culturally significant.
122			Taro	Magimbi	Colocasia esculenta	Indigenous tuber (Dasheen/Eddoe types), leaves also consumed.
123			Alocasia		Alocasia spp.	Giant Taro, another aroid tuber crop.
124	Pulses	Major Pulses	Common Bean	Maharage	Phaseolus vulgaris	Most important pulse for domestic consumption and nutrition.
125			Pigeon Pea	Mbaazi	Cajanus cajan	Major export pulse, highly dependent on the Indian market.
126			Chickpea	Dengu	Cicer arietinum	Export pulse (Desi and Kabuli types).
127			Cowpea	Kunde	Vigna unguiculata	Important for subsistence and regional trade; leaves also eaten.
128			Green Gram	Choroko	Vigna radiata	Mung Bean. Grown for domestic and regional markets.
129		Minor Pulses	Lentils (Red & Yellow)		Lens culinaris	Cultivated in various regions.
130			Bambara Groundnut	Njugu Mawe	Vigna subterranea	Underutilized indigenous legume, drought-tolerant and highly nutritious.
131	Other	Miscellaneous	Moringa		Moringa oleifera	‘Miracle tree’, leaves are highly nutritious. Underutilized.
132			Baobab		Adansonia digitata	Indigenous tree, fruit pulp is nutritious. Underutilized.
133			Wattle Tree		Acacia mearnsii	Grown in highlands, primarily for tannin but integrated in farming systems.
134			Raffia		Raphia spp.	Palm used for fiber, particularly in Zanzibar.
135			Seaweed		Eucheuma spp.	An aquatic crop, major export for Zanzibar, used for carrageenan.

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