Dr Nindi: Why farmers’ registration in national database matters
Uyole, Mbeya: The Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture (Crop Development and Food Security), Dr Stephen Nindi, has underscored the importance of registering farmers in the national database to ensure they fully benefit from government subsidy programmes and other national agricultural support initiatives.
Speaking during a special meeting held at the Uyole Basin in Mbeya Region on Friday (September 3, 2025), the Deputy PS said that the government will continue to stand close to farmers to make sure that their challenges are addressed promptly.
He directed agricultural officers to intensify awareness and registration drives, noting that only through accurate data can the government plan and deliver timely interventions.
To boost the sector, Dr Nindi also called for the establishment of demonstration farms in collaboration with stakeholders to promote best farming practices and ensure that extension services reach farmers regularly.
He further thanked farmers for their strong turnout and cooperation, describing them as key partners in advancing Tanzania’s agricultural transformation.
The meeting, which focused on promoting fertilizer use, brought together government leaders, agricultural experts, and farmers — a move that demonstrated collective commitment to developing the country’s agriculture sector.
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Opening the session, Mbeya Regional Administrative Secretary, Mr Rodrick Mpogolo, highlighted Mbeya Region’s strategic role as an agricultural hub for the Southern Highlands.
He said the government continues to take concrete steps to enhance soil testing, improve productivity, and expand value chains in key crops such as rice, tea, avocado, and cocoa.
Farmers from the Iganjo Irrigation Scheme who participated in the meeting commended the government for its efforts, but also identified areas needing more focus.
They emphasized the need for affordable and quality farm inputs, as well as accessible extension services that directly reach them on the ground — key factors for improving yields and crop quality.
The farmers expressed great confidence in the government for practical actions being taken, including close collaboration with institutions such as the Tanzania Fertilizer Regulatory Authority (TFRA) and the Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI) in conducting soil tests and providing expert advice on proper fertilizer use.
They voiced hope that such knowledge would reach more farmers to enhance productivity and household incomes.
Experts from various institutions reassured farmers that plans are already underway to distribute fertilizer packaging suitable for smallholder farmers, ensure transparent display of subsidized prices by agents, and accelerate soil testing across all districts of Mbeya Region.
The meeting concluded on a hopeful note, with farmers expressing renewed determination to boost production and work hand in hand with the government in building a more resilient and productive agricultural sector.
Many interpreted the directives and discussions as clear evidence that agriculture remains the engine of Tanzania’s economic growth.
