Coast targets 42,000 tonnes of cashews

KIBAHA: COAST Region is targeting 42,000 tonnes of cashew nuts in the 2026/2027 season as authorities seek to raise production to 73,000 tonnes by 2029/2030.

Coast Regional Commissioner, Mr Stanslaus Nyongo, said the targets could be achieved if farmers and other stakeholders followed agricultural experts’ advice on production, storage and marketing.

“Our aim is to produce 42,000 tonnes of cashew nuts in the 2026/2027 season and increase production to 73,000 tonnes by the 2029/2030 season. We can only achieve this goal if we follow proper procedures for farming, storage and trade of this crop as directed by our experts,” he said.

Mr Nyongo made the remarks recently during the Regional Cashew Industry Meeting for the 2026/2027 season held in Mkuranga District.

He said Coast Region had significant potential to increase cashew production because of its suitable land and favourable climate.

As part of efforts to meet the targets, Mr Nyongo directed all nine councils in the region to plant two million cashew seedlings and ensure farmers followed recommended farming practices.

He also called on leaders and officials from regional to village level to supervise the formal cashew collection and marketing system and curb illegal buying of the crop, commonly known as “kangomba”.

Mr Nyongo said the practice contributed to smuggling, declining quality and reduced earnings for farmers.

He directed Agricultural Marketing Cooperative Societies (AMCOS) to ensure their warehouses were insured to protect stored produce and facilitate compensation for farmers in case of disasters, in accordance with insurance terms and conditions.

Mr Nyongo also urged AMCOS and farmers to prepare for heavy rains by acquiring equipment such as tarpaulins for sorting, drying and storing cashew nuts to prevent rotting and deterioration of quality.