Isles 2VP urges farmers to shift to commercial agriculture

ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR’S Second Vice President, Hemed Suleiman Abdulla, has urged farmers to shift from subsistence farming to climate-resilient commercial agriculture, saying the transition is essential for food security, higher incomes and stronger export markets.

He made the remarks on behalf of the President of Zanzibar and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council, Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, during the official opening of the 10th NaneNane Agricultural Exhibition held at KizimbaniDole grounds in the West “A” District, Unguja.

“To increase public participation in agriculture, we must invest more in innovation and farmer education so that we can move from subsistence farming to sustainable commercial agriculture that is resilient to climate change and capable of strengthening food security and export markets,” Hemed said.

The Second Vice-President said the government will continue investing in irrigation, improved seeds, livestock development, agricultural inputs, research and technology adoption to increase productivity and address the effects of climate change.

He also stressed that sustainable agricultural development requires empowering youth and women through skills training, access to capital, modern technologies and markets.

Hemed highlighted achievements by the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, Natural Resources and Livestock, including completion of the Kilimo App, expansion of farmer registration, establishment of a livestock disease research laboratory in Kizimbani and completion of a honey products market centre in Chamanangwe, Pemba.

Meanwhile, Zanzibar’s Minister for Agriculture, Irrigation, Natural Resources and Livestock, Suleiman Massoud Makame, said the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar has prioritised investment in agriculture to ensure food self-sufficiency and reduce dependence on imported food.

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“Our goal is to build a productive agricultural sector that can feed the population, create jobs and reduce reliance on imported food through greater local production,” Makame said.

He said the ministry in collaboration with stakeholders and development partners is providing farmers and livestock keepers with knowledge, skills and modern tools to expand agricultural and livestock production.

Deputy Minister for Livestock and Fisheries, Ms Ng’wasi Kamani, commended Zanzibar for integrating agriculture, livestock, fisheries and natural resources sectors within the exhibition, saying the approach makes it easier for citizens to access information and services.

Earlier, Permanent Secretary in the ministry Saleh Mohd Juma said about 750m/- had been invested to improve infrastructure and create a more conducive environment at the Dole exhibition grounds.

“This year we have 498 exhibitors from Zanzibar, mainland Tanzania and abroad, which shows growing interest in agriculture and livestock activities, especially among youth and women,” Saleh said.

The exhibition began on August 1, was officially opened on August 8 and will conclude on August 16.