#TZ2024/5 Agriculture Budget:Tanzania’s Strategy to Boost Agricultural Exports

Kilimokwanza.org Team

Tanzania is taking decisive steps to enhance the value and volume of its agricultural exports, a move outlined in the recent budget speech by Hon. Hussein Mohamed Bashe, the Minister of Agriculture. This initiative is part of a broader effort to expand the country’s economic base and improve the livelihoods of its farmers.

In his 2024/2025 budget address, Minister Bashe emphasized the government’s commitment to increasing agricultural exports. “To enhance our presence in international markets, we are not only improving our agricultural infrastructure but also setting up robust financial systems to support our farmers,” Bashe noted. This dual approach aims to address both the physical and economic barriers that have historically limited the country’s export potential.

Infrastructure Development: Key to this strategy is the development of critical infrastructure. Tanzania is investing in better transportation networks, including roads and ports, which are essential for efficient export operations. Additionally, the government is upgrading irrigation systems to ensure consistent crop yields, which is vital for maintaining supply reliability—a crucial factor in international trade.

Financial Support and Market Access: Financial support mechanisms are being put in place to help farmers scale up production and meet international standards. These include subsidies for inputs like high-quality seeds and fertilizers, and financial services tailored to agricultural needs, such as crop insurance and export credit facilities. “We are working to ensure that our farmers have the tools and resources they need to compete on the global stage,” stated Bashe.

Promoting High-Value Crops: The government is also focusing on high-value crops that have strong demand in international markets, such as coffee, tea, cashews, and spices. By encouraging the cultivation of these crops through targeted support programs, Tanzania aims to diversify its export portfolio and increase the overall value of its agricultural exports.

Challenges and Opportunities: While the prospects are promising, challenges such as meeting international quality standards and adapting to global market trends remain. Continued government support in the form of training programs for quality assurance and marketing could help address these challenges. Additionally, forging partnerships with foreign distributors and participating in international trade shows could open new avenues for Tanzania’s agricultural products.

Tanzania’s strategic focus on enhancing the value and volume of agricultural exports is setting a foundation for sustained economic growth. By improving infrastructure, providing financial support, and promoting high-value crops, the country is poised to expand its footprint in global markets. As these initiatives gain momentum, they are expected not only to boost the national economy but also to transform the livelihoods of countless farmers across the nation.