President Samia: Why agriculture is key to Tanzania’s economic development

President Samia Suluhu Hassan has said agriculture plays a pivotal role in Tanzania’s economy as the sector contributes 26 per cent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Addressing Wananchi during the commemoration of Farmers’ Day, famously known as Nanenane’ held at the national level in Mbeya region, August 8, this year, the Head of State said apart from boosting the country’s GDP, the sector employs 65 per cent of Tanzanians.

Explaining further on how the sector is so important, she said agriculture contributes up to 65 percent of industrial raw materials and 100 per cent of food which is being consumed in the country and surplus for export.

“One of the main reasons for this exhibition is for us to acknowledge and appreciate various efforts done by the agriculture sector in the country and as we understand, some neighboring countries are very dependent on food from Tanzania. So, I congratulate all the farmers, fishermen and livestock keepers,” the Head of State said.

On Nanenane Day, President Samia advised leaders from other regions to borrow a leaf from Mbeya by marking the day at national and international levels.

“These exhibitions promote various production activities conducted in the country and give room to sharing experience so as to allow more Tanzanians to see and grasp opportunities available in the sector,” she stated at the well-attended event.