Government launches Coast fruit, vegetable hub

KIBAHA: THE government has embarked on strategies to make Coast Region a hub for the production of fruits and vegetables, targeting markets in Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar.

The plan forms part of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s vision to strengthen food production and contribute to feeding Africa and the world.

Speaking after inspecting a 200-acre farm at Ruvu Station in Kibaha District on Monday, Minister for Agriculture, Mr Daniel Chongolo, said the region has been chosen as a model for crop production based on quality, standards and productivity, benefiting farmers and youths in the Coast and Dar es Salaam regions and surrounding areas.

Expounding, he said there is high demand for vegetables and fruits in local markets, adding that the farm will be managed by agricultural experts who will guide farmers in applying modern farming methods to increase productivity and efficiency.

“This farm will be managed by our experts who will guide the farmers. The aim is to ensure that Kibaha becomes a major supplier of fruits and vegetables for Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar,” he said.

Giving further details, Mr Chongolo noted that the project will start with 200 acres, with plans to expand production and ensure availability of crops in major markets across the country.

For his part, Coast Regional Commissioner Mr Abubakar Kunenge stated that the plan also aims to implement Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) manifesto commitments by increasing youth employment in the agriculture sector.

He noted that more than 1,000 acres in Kibaha District are suitable for the project, with 200 acres to be used in the first phase. The RC further disclosed that about 1,500 acres in Kisarawe District will be used for irrigation farming throughout the year as part of the project.