Tanzania’s Mango Revolution: A Deep Dive into the New Push for Growth

Kilimokwanza.org Correpondent

Tanzania, renowned for its rich culture and stunning landscapes, is also home to a thriving mango industry. While mangoes have long been cultivated in the country, a renewed emphasis on the subsector is set to drive remarkable progress, positioning Tanzania to become a global leader in mango production. This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the factors driving this “mango revolution,” examining the industry’s current state, the key players and initiatives propelling its growth, the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, and the potential impact on the Tanzanian economy.

Current State of the Mango Subsector in Tanzania

Tanzania currently ranks as the 12th largest mango producer globally ¹, with an annual production of approximately 700,000 metric tons ¹. This substantial output underscores the importance of mangoes in Tanzania’s agricultural sector. While production has been steadily increasing at a 1.7% per year since 1966 ², there is potential for even greater growth. Projections indicate that Tanzania’s mango production could reach 501,710 metric tons by 2026 ², further solidifying its position in the global market.

Tanzania boasts a diverse array of mango varieties, both indigenous and introduced. Prominent local varieties include Ngowe, Batawi, and Apple, each with distinct characteristics and adaptability to specific agro-ecological zones ³. Introduced varieties such as Tommy Atkins, Kent, and Keitt have also been successfully cultivated in Tanzania, expanding the range of options and export potential ³.

Government Policies and Initiatives: Fostering a Supportive Environment

The Tanzanian government has strongly committed to supporting the horticulture sector, including the mango subsector, through various policy measures and initiatives. These include tax exemptions on technologies for sorting, grading, and packing fruits and vegetables, aimed at improving the quality of exports and enhancing competitiveness in international markets ⁴. This initiative directly addresses the need to meet stringent quality standards in key export markets such as Europe.

In addition to tax incentives, the government is actively engaged in research and development programs focused on enhancing mango production. This includes the development of new improved varieties with desirable traits such as higher yield potential, disease resistance, and superior export quality characteristics ⁵. These efforts are crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of the Tanzanian mango industry.

Furthermore, the government supports specific projects to boost mango production in certain regions. For instance, the Mbola Millennium Village Project in Tabora provides assistance to mango farmers, facilitating access to resources and knowledge ⁶. Such targeted initiatives can have a significant impact on local communities and contribute to overall growth in the mango subsector.

The New Push for Growth: A Collaborative Effort

Government initiatives do not solely drive the recent surge in attention towards the mango subsector. It is a collaborative endeavor involving a diverse range of stakeholders, including agricultural experts, policymakers, farmers, and Agribusiness East Africa, an online group, in collaboration with AMAGRO Tanzania (The Association of Mango Growers Tanzania), COPRA, TOSCI, SAGCOT, TAHA, Diligent Consulting Limited, and Nature Ripe, have been presenting critical dialogues! This vital discussion addresses the key challenges and opportunities within the burgeoning mango sector, as part of the larger “mango revolution” sweeping Tanzania. This collective effort underscores the commitment of multiple stakeholders to propel Tanzania into a leading position on the global mango market stage ⁷. This collaborative approach is essential for addressing the multifaceted challenges and harnessing the full potential of the industry.

One of the key drivers behind this push is the recognition of the immense global market opportunity. The global mango market is currently valued at $67.95 billion and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 6.7% ¹. This presents a significant opportunity for Tanzania to increase its exports and generate valuable foreign exchange.

A crucial aspect of this new push is the emphasis on empowering smallholder farmers, who form the backbone of Tanzania’s mango industry, accounting for 99% of production ¹. Recognizing their vital role, stakeholders are advocating for increased support to these farmers, including access to quality planting materials, training on improved agronomic practices, and assistance in meeting market requirements ¹.

Furthermore, Tanzania enjoys a strategic advantage in the global mango market due to its ability to produce mangoes during the off-season, when production in major mango-producing countries is low ¹. This allows Tanzania to cater to global demand and secure a competitive edge in international markets.

This collaborative effort is further exemplified by events such as the Twitter Spaces dialogue on commercial mango farming held on October 8, 2024 ⁷. Such platforms provide valuable opportunities for stakeholders to engage in discussions, share knowledge, and identify strategies for advancing the mango subsector.

Challenges and Opportunities: Navigating the Path to Success

While the potential for growth is undeniable, the Tanzanian mango subsector must overcome several challenges to fully capitalize on the opportunities.

Challenges in Production and Market Access

• Limited Access to Quality Planting Materials: The availability of reliable grafted seedlings and certified mother trees remains a concern, hindering the expansion of production and the adoption of improved varieties ¹. This challenge underscores the need for investment in nurseries and propagation facilities to ensure a consistent supply of high-quality planting materials.
• Land Use Pressures: Urban sprawl, particularly around major cities like Dar es Salaam, is encroaching on prime agricultural land, reducing the area available for mango cultivation ¹. This highlights the importance of land use planning and policies that protect agricultural land from urbanization.
• Pest Control Issues: Fruit flies and other pests pose a significant threat to mango production, requiring effective and sustainable pest management strategies ¹. Integrated pest management approaches, combining biological control, cultural practices, and judicious use of pesticides, are crucial for minimizing yield losses and ensuring fruit quality.

Challenges in Post-harvest Handling and Value Addition

• Underutilized Processing Potential: The lack of large-scale processing plants limits value addition and exposes farmers to post-harvest losses due to the perishable nature of fresh mangoes ¹. Investing in processing infrastructure and developing a range of mango-based products, such as juices, dried mangoes, and mango oil, can significantly enhance the value of the subsector and reduce reliance on fresh fruit exports ³.
• Inadequate Infrastructure: Poor road networks and limited cold storage facilities hinder market access and contribute to post-harvest losses ¹. Improving rural infrastructure, including roads, transportation networks, and cold storage facilities, is crucial for reducing post-harvest losses and ensuring that mangoes reach markets in optimal condition.
• High Post-harvest Losses: Poor handling practices and pest infestations can result in significant post-harvest losses, with estimates suggesting that farmers often lose 40-45% of their crop ³. This emphasizes the critical need for improved post-harvest handling practices and infrastructure to reduce losses and improve export quality.

Challenges in Export Markets

• Market Access Constraints: Meeting the quality and safety requirements for export markets can be challenging for smallholder farmers, limiting their access to lucrative international markets ³. Providing training and support to farmers on good agricultural practices, quality control, and certification requirements is essential for overcoming these constraints.
• Export-related Challenges: Mango exporters face various challenges, including high international freight charges, difficulties in customs clearance, and stringent sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures ⁹. Addressing these challenges requires collaboration between government agencies, exporters, and international partners to streamline procedures and reduce trade barriers.

Opportunities for Growth and Development

• Export Market Expansion: The growing global demand for mangoes, coupled with Tanzania’s off-season production advantage, presents a significant opportunity to increase exports to Europe, the Middle East, and other regions ¹. This requires strategic marketing efforts and the development of strong export value chains.
• Value Addition and Product Diversification: Investing in processing infrastructure and developing a range of mango-based products, such as juices, dried mangoes, and mango oil, can significantly enhance the value of the subsector and reduce reliance on fresh fruit exports ³. This can create new markets and income streams for mango producers.
• Empowering Smallholder Farmers: Providing smallholder farmers with access to quality planting materials, training on improved agronomic practices, and support in meeting market requirements can significantly enhance their productivity and income ¹. This can contribute to poverty reduction and rural development.
• Promoting Sustainable Production: Implementing sustainable practices, such as efficient water management, soil conservation, and environmentally friendly pest control methods, can ensure the long-term viability of the mango subsector and minimize its environmental impact ³. This can enhance the resilience of the industry to climate change and other environmental challenges.
• Public-Private Partnerships: Fostering collaboration between the government, private sector, and NGOs can leverage resources and expertise to drive innovation and address challenges across the value chain. This can create a more supportive and enabling environment for the mango subsector.

Role of NGOs and Other Organizations: Catalysts for Change

Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and other development organizations play a crucial role in supporting the mango subsector in Tanzania. They provide valuable support to farmers through various programs, including:

• Access to Education and Training: NGOs conduct training programs on improved farming techniques, pest management, and post-harvest handling to enhance farmers’ knowledge and skills ¹⁰. This empowers farmers to make informed decisions and adopt best practices.
• Financial Support: Some NGOs provide financial assistance to farmers, enabling them to invest in improved inputs, such as fertilizers and pesticides, and adopt better technologies ¹⁰. This can help overcome financial barriers and facilitate the adoption of improved practices.
• Market Linkages: NGOs facilitate connections between farmers and markets, helping them access buyers and negotiate fair prices for their produce ¹¹. This can improve market access and ensure that farmers receive fair returns for their efforts.
• Community Development: NGOs work with communities to promote sustainable mango production practices and improve livelihoods through income generation activities ¹². This can have broader social and economic benefits beyond the mango subsector.

Organizations like The Mango Tree are actively involved in community development initiatives, providing support to orphaned children and those living in difficult circumstances while promoting sustainable livelihoods through education and training ¹². They also exemplify the shift towards African-led organizations in international aid, prioritizing grassroots innovation and community ownership ¹³. This approach empowers local communities and ensures that development initiatives are aligned with local needs and priorities.

Potential Impact on the Tanzanian Economy: A Fruitful Future

The renewed push for the mango subsector holds significant potential to contribute to the Tanzanian economy. By increasing production, expanding exports, and promoting value addition, the mango industry can:

• Boost Foreign Exchange Earnings: Increased mango exports can generate valuable foreign exchange, contributing to the country’s economic growth ¹⁴. This can strengthen the Tanzanian economy and improve its balance of payments.
• Create Employment Opportunities: The expansion of the mango value chain, from production to processing and marketing, can create numerous employment opportunities, particularly in rural areas ³. This can contribute to poverty reduction and improve livelihoods.
• Improve Rural Livelihoods: Increased income from mango farming can improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers and contribute to poverty reduction ³. This can have positive ripple effects throughout rural communities.
• Enhance Food Security: Increased mango production can contribute to food security by providing a nutritious and readily available source of food ³. This can improve nutrition and contribute to a healthier population.
• Promote Sustainable Development: The adoption of sustainable production practices can contribute to environmental conservation and promote sustainable agricultural development ³. This can help protect natural resources and ensure the long-term viability of the mango industry.

It is important to consider the potential impacts of external factors on the mango value chain. For instance, the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the vulnerability of agricultural value chains to global shocks. A study in Ghana, a comparable example, revealed that the pandemic negatively impacted the profit of mango producers and distributors, while processors experienced a positive impact ¹⁵. This highlights the need for resilience-building measures and emergency preparedness to mitigate the impacts of such events.

Harvesting the Fruits of Progress

The Tanzanian mango subsector is poised for a significant transformation. The new push for growth, driven by a collaborative effort and supported by favorable government policies and NGO initiatives, has the potential to unlock the industry’s full potential and contribute significantly to the Tanzanian economy.

However, realizing this potential requires a concerted effort to address the challenges, including limited access to quality planting materials, land use pressures, underutilized processing potential, pest control issues, and inadequate infrastructure. By overcoming these challenges and capitalizing on the opportunities, Tanzania can establish itself as a global leader in mango production and processing, driving economic growth, creating employment, and improving livelihoods.

The “mango revolution” in Tanzania has far-reaching implications. It can contribute to sustainable development goals by promoting economic growth, creating employment, and improving food security. It can also play a role in regional economic integration by fostering trade and collaboration within East Africa. Furthermore, the growth of the mango industry can attract foreign investment and contribute to the diversification of the Tanzanian economy.

The future of the Tanzanian mango industry appears bright. With continued collaboration, innovation, and a focus on sustainable practices, the country can harvest the fruits of progress and establish itself as a mango powerhouse on the global stage.

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