Rukwa banks on 51.9bn/- irrigation scheme to heighten agribusiness   

SUMBAWANGA: THE Tanzanian government has assured farmers in the Rukwa Region that they will benefit from irrigation projects worth 51.9bn/-, while urging them to be cautious when purchasing subsidized seeds by ensuring they carry a quality certification label from the Tanzania Official Seed Certification Institute (TOSCI).

The statement was made by Deputy Minister for Agriculture, David Silinde, during an official visit by the Prime Minister of Tanzania, Mwigulu Nchemba, on March 9, 2026, in Nkasi District in Rukwa Region.

Silinde said that in Nkasi District alone, irrigation projects worth  21.1bn/- are currently being implemented.

These include the Katongolo Irrigation Project valued at 20.98bn/-. He explained that the project began in 2023 and was initially scheduled for completion in June 2026, but the deadline has been extended to December 2026 to ensure the project is completed to the required standards.

Regarding agricultural markets, Silinde said the National Food Reserve Agency (NFRA) will continue purchasing maize from farmers according to the available budget.

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The move is part of the government’s strategy to ensure farmers have a reliable market for their produce.

In efforts to safeguard the quality of agricultural inputs, Silinde stressed that strict legal action will be taken against traders selling counterfeit seeds and fake fertilizers. Those found guilty of such practices will face penalties including revocation of their licenses and compensation to farmers affected by the use of counterfeit inputs, which often lead to production losses.

The government has also advised farmers to carefully verify subsidized seeds before purchase by checking that the packaging carries the official TOSCI quality label. To confirm authenticity, farmers are instructed to scratch the label and verify the seed using their mobile phones by dialing 14852#.

Silinde further urged farmers to continue registering for the fertilizer subsidy program to improve oversight and management of agricultural inputs nationwide.