Sumbawanga crop harvests to rise 17pc
RUKWA: SUMBAWANGA Municipal in Rukwa is projected to see a 17 per cent increase in crop production this season, signalling a positive outlook for the region agricultural sector.
The municipality projected to harvest 159,388 tonnes of various crops in 2024/25 compared to 135,787 tonnes in 2023/24.
The Sumbawanga District Commissioner, Mr Nyakia Chirukile, attributed the increase in crop production to the adoption of modern farming techniques, the use of soil testing, higher fertiliser application and the expansion of extension service.
“The increase in crop production is attributed to the adoption of modern farming practices, soil testing and greater use of fertilisers, alongside improved extension services,” said the DC yesterday while launching 2024/25 farming season. Rukwa is the second-highest region in the country for crop production after Ruvuma out of 31 regions.
The DC said in the last season maize led the list and followed by rice, beans, sunflower, wheat, groundnuts, finger millet and cassava.
The maize production reached 73,552 tonnes, with wheat yielding 10,808 tonnes during 2023/24 season.
Additionally, the DC directed agricultural experts to closely monitor the availability and distribution of essential inputs, particularly fertilisers, in preparation for the upcoming farming season.
“Farmers are encouraged to prepare their fields, plant, weed and apply suitable inputs according to soil moisture conditions.
“They should also consult Agricultural Extension Officers for guidance on the seasonal forecast and choose appropriate seeds and crops” Mr Chirukile said.
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He further said the government will continue to provide fertiliser subsidies and high-quality maize seeds to farmers in the 2024/25 farming season.
The use of agriculture inputs in municipality is projecting to reach 14,800 tonnes in 2024/25 compared to 12,570 tonnes in 2023/24 season.
According to the DC, the number of farmers registered in the municipality to receive subsidised fertiliser has increased from 18,030 in the 2023/24 season to 18,559 in the 2024/25 season, with the registration process still ongoing.
The Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) recently issued its climate outlook for the rainy season from November to April, predicting favorable rainfall for agricultural production.
TMA also advised residents in flood-prone areas to exercise caution. Forecasts indicate normal to below-normal rainfall for the regions of Kigoma, Tabora, Katavi, Rukwa, Songwe, Singida, Dodoma, as well as the northern and eastern parts of Lindi and the northern regions of Mbeya and Iringa.
In contrast, normal to above-normal rains are expected in Njombe, Ruvuma, Mtwara, southern and western Lindi and the southern areas of Mbeya, Iringa and Morogoro.
The second half of the season (February-April 2025) is predicted to be wetter than the first half (November 2024-January 2025).
