Stick to extension guidance, farmers reminded

LINDI: TANZANIA Bureau of Standards (TBS) has reminded farmers to follow extension officers’ guidance to ensure public health and prevent diseases from agricultural inputs.

TBS Southern Zone Manager, Mr Abel Mwakasonda, gave the advice over the weekend at the Nane Nane Farmers’ Exhibition at Ngongo grounds in Lindi.

“Farmers are trained by extension officers in the fields or gardens on the correct use of agro-chemicals, including the required waiting periods before the chemicals lose their strength,” he said.

This ensures that when the crops are harvested and sold to consumers, the products are safe and do not cause harm.

“Our call from TBS is for farmers to follow the instructions of extension officers because they have special training and deep knowledge that ensures the products are safe,” Mwakasonda said.

He added that TBS participated in this year’s exhibition with the aim of continuing to educate all Tanzanians engaged in the production and trade of various products to ensure they comply with standards requirements.

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“Our goal is to ensure all Tanzanians can use quality products,” he said. Mr Mwakasonda noted that the exhibition was a great opportunity for Tanzanians, especially those from the Southern Regions who visited the TBS stall at the Ngongo grounds in Lindi, as they were able to receive education that alleviates the worries of producers and traders in general. “Therefore, everyone who visited our stall received reliable information and avoided getting misleading information from others who may be their competitors,” he explained.

Mwakasonda encouraged producers to visit TBS whenever they want information regarding the quality and safety of their products. Additionally, he urged producers to come to TBS laboratories to verify the safety of their products.

“However, if someone fails to follow the procedures provided, it becomes difficult to succeed, but thankfully many follow the instructions,” he said, adding that producers who adhere to the guidance they receive will be able to produce quality products.