USAID’s Kilimo Tija Initiative Unleashes Tanzania’s Horticulture Potential, Empowering Youth and Transforming Livelihoods

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – June 27, 2024 – Since September 2022, USAID’s Kilimo Tija initiative has spearheaded the transformation of Tanzania’s horticulture sector, unlocking economic opportunities and empowering youth across the country. Through a multifaceted approach implemented by ACDI/VOCA, this innovative program focuses on strengthening market systems, increasing access to climate-smart technologies, and improving the enabling environment for sustainable growth.

Targeting key regions like Morogoro, Iringa, Mbeya, Njombe, Zanzibar, and major market centers, Kilimo Tija prioritizes inclusive growth by focusing on youth and women. The initiative’s private sector-led model fosters local ownership and sustainability, ensuring the benefits are deeply rooted within communities.

With a $38 million investment and a timeline extending to September 2027, Kilimo Tija has already demonstrated its transformative potential:

• Strengthened Market Systems: Facilitated stronger connections between farmers, buyers, and other stakeholders, resulting in a more efficient and profitable horticulture value chain.
• Increased Technology Adoption: Empowered farmers with access to cutting-edge climate-smart agricultural technologies, boosting productivity and resilience.
• Improved Enabling Environment: Advocated for and supported the implementation of policies that create a conducive environment for horticulture to thrive.

These early successes highlight Kilimo Tija’s significant contribution to improving livelihoods and driving economic growth in Tanzania’s horticulture sector. As the initiative progresses, it promises to further unleash the sector’s full potential, creating a brighter future for Tanzanian farmers and communities.