Conduct regular farm inspections, TARI tells cashew growers

LINDI: THE Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI) – Naliendele Centre has urged cashew farmers to conduct regular inspections of their farms to effectively control pests and diseases that could harm crop yields and nut quality.

Senior Research Officer at TARI Naliendele and National Coordinator of the Cashew Research Programme, Dr Wilson Nene made the appeal over the weekend, saying that August is a critical period for cashew cultivation.

“August is a crucial time when cashew farmers must regularly inspect their trees for pests and diseases such as tea mosquitoes. It is also a time for preparing for the upcoming harvest season,” he said.

Dr Nene advised farmers to apply sulphur on their cashew trees to prevent diseases like powdery mildew and other infections that may affect yields and nut quality.

He also underscored the importance of using government-subsidised agricultural inputs, including sulphur and pesticides, to enhance productivity.

“The government has provided subsidized inputs to cashew farmers. These should be used appropriately to manage pests and diseases, ensuring improved harvests,” he stressed.

Speaking at the Nane Nane Agricultural Exhibition in Lindi Region, Lindi Assistant Administrative Secretary for Agriculture and Production, Mr Mwinjuna Mkungu said the government has fully subsidised agricultural inputs for cashew production to strengthen the industry and improve farmers’ livelihoods.

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He noted that the subsidised inputs, comprising sulphur, pesticides and fertilisers worth 305.9bn/- are being distributed to all farmers registered through the Cashewnut Board of Tanzania (CBT).

“Distribution of the subsidised inputs is ongoing in all cashew-growing regions. These inputs are available to all registered cashew farmers,” he said.

In addition, the government has deployed and trained agricultural extension officers to assist farmers with modern farming techniques, pest and disease control, and proper input usage.

This support is part of the government’s broader strategy to increase cashew production to 700,000 tonnes by the 2025/2026 season, with an ambitious goal of reaching 1 million tonnes by 2030.

Achieving this target is expected to strengthen the cashew industry and improve local processing of cashew products.