COPRA backs pigeon pea farmers

DODOMA: THE Cereals and Other Produce Regulatory Authority (COPRA) has stepped up support for smallholder farmers by distributing 2.5 tonnes of pigeon pea seeds to Dodoma Region in Chemba, Kondoa and Kongwa Districts.

The initiative aims to strengthen pigeon pea production across the region and promote mixed farming practices among smallholder farmers.

Speaking at the event, Dodoma Regional Commissioner, Rosemary Senyamule said farmers in the previous season sold their produce through the Warehouse Receipt System, a move that enhanced transparency and improved earnings.

She urged farmers to continue investing in proper storage infrastructure, including modern warehouses, to ensure proper handling and marketing of their crops.

“This year marks a historic milestone as pigeon pea seeds are being distributed free of charge to farmers who performed well,” she said.

Ms Senyamule added that the improved seeds would boost productivity and increase the nutritional value of household diets, given the crop’s importance as a protein-rich food.

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She instructed beneficiary district councils to distribute the seeds promptly to eligible farmers and ensure they are planted this agricultural season and directed agricultural officers to supervise the exercise closely to achieve the intended impact on the value chain.

Representing the benefiting district leaders, Kondoa District Commissioner, Fatma Nyangasa thanked the government for the support, saying the seeds will enable farmers to begin planting early and expand production compared to the previous season.

COPRA Central Zone Manager, Andrew Mgaya, said the 2.5 tonnes were allocated based on production capacity, with Kondoa and Chemba being leading producers, each receiving one tonne, while Kongwa received half a tonne.

He said the distribution aligns with the authority’s goal of supporting regions with high potential for pigeon pea production.