Banking support accelerates shift to modern agric

TANDAHIMBA: WITH ongoing efforts to modernize cashew farming in southern Tanzania, the National Bank of Commerce (NBC) has concluded the fourth phase of its flagship agricultural campaign, “Wekeza NBC Shambani Ushinde,” by presenting a tractor to the Tandahimba and Newala Cooperative Union (TANECU).

The campaign, launched in September last year in Tandahimba District, aims to boost cashew production by expanding farmers’ access to tailored financial services while encouraging adoption of modern farming practices. By combining incentives with practical support, the initiative seeks to improve productivity and efficiency across the agricultural value chain.

Beyond the grand prize tractor, participants received tools such as smartphones, motorbikes, pesticide sprayers, laptops, and digital weighing scales. These resources are designed to enhance farm management, operations, and market access, reflecting a broader strategy to integrate technology into agriculture.

The handover ceremony was held during TANECU’s 31st Annual General Meeting in Tandahimba. District Commissioner Colonel Michael Mntenjele officiated the event, which brought together cooperative leaders, farmers, and NBC officials, including Lindi Branch Manager Iovin Mapunda and Tandahimba Branch Manager Billygraham Minja.

Colonel Mntenjele praised NBC’s contribution to agricultural transformation, describing the campaign as a catalyst for change. He emphasized that the initiative enables farmers to access financing for essential inputs, equipment, and working capital. “These are not merely rewards,” he said. “They are strategic investments in productivity and long-term growth.” He added that the campaign aligns with government efforts to expand cashew production and strengthen rural economies, and stressed the importance of farmer education through extension services to ensure sustainable progress.

Mapunda highlighted that the campaign is part of NBC’s broader commitment to national development through inclusive financial services. “Through ‘NBC Shambani,’ we have streamlined access to financial solutions for farmers, including zero-monthly-fee accounts, agricultural equipment financing, and credit facilities for cooperatives,” he said. “Our goal is to help grow the sector from five percent to ten percent by 2030.” He reiterated that agriculture remains central to Tanzania’s economy, employing more than 65 percent of the population and serving as a key income source.

Minja noted visible changes at the grassroots level. Farmers are increasingly embracing formal banking systems and modern tools, signaling a shift in mindset. “TANECU’s success reflects the effectiveness of this campaign,” he observed.

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TANECU Chairman Karimu Chipola welcomed the support, describing the tractor as transformative, boosting productivity and helping the union meet its regional targets. “We will use this tractor to expand production and continue benefiting from NBC’s financial solutions,” he said. He also encouraged farmers to maintain financial discipline, use formal banking, and invest in modern practices to ensure sustainable growth.

As the fourth phase concludes, the campaign underscores the power of strategic partnerships in advancing agricultural development. By linking financial access with practical tools, NBC is helping farmers transition toward more productive, efficient, and resilient farming systems, marking a significant milestone in southern Tanzania’s agricultural modernization efforts.