AGRA pledges stronger partnership to boost food security

DODOMA: THE Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) has reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the government and agricultural stakeholders to improve food production and transform Tanzania’s seed systems.

Speaking during the National Seed Stakeholders Meeting held in Dodoma on Thursday, AGRA’s Country Director Representative, Mr Ipyana Mwakasaka, emphasised the crucial role of quality seed systems in enhancing agricultural productivity and ensuring long-term food security.

“We will continue partnering with the government to support local seed production, promote research into early-maturing and climate-resilient seed varieties, strengthen distribution systems, and increase farmer education on the use of improved seeds,” said Mr Mwakasaka.

He said AGRA remains committed to supporting accessibility, affordability, and quality control in the seed sector, especially for smallholder farmers who form the backbone of the country’s agricultural value chain.

Mr Mwakasaka also expressed AGRA’s strong backing of the government’s 10/30 Agenda, particularly in supporting youth participation in agriculture through the Building a Better Tomorrow (BBT) initiative.

The meeting, which brought together key players in the agriculture sector, was graced by the Minister for Agriculture, Mr Hussein Bashe, Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Dr Hussein Omar, members of the Parliamentary Committee on Industry, Trade, Livestock and Agriculture, seed producers, farmers and other stakeholders.

In his remarks, Mr Bashe hailed the ongoing transformation in the agriculture sector, attributing the progress to increased investment and bold policy reforms aimed at improving productivity and sustainability.

ALSO READ: EABC, AGRA to boost intra-regional agri-food trade

“We are witnessing a positive shift in agriculture. The investments we are making today may not show immediate results, but we are laying a strong foundation for future generations. Our goal is a food-secure Tanzania, with the youth at the centre of agricultural innovation and enterprise,” he said.

The gathering served as a strategic forum for stakeholders to align priorities, strengthen partnerships, and map out a collaborative way forward in developing a vibrant and reliable seed sector that underpins national food security and economic growth.