Dodoma RC touts apple farming

DODOMA: DODOMA Regional Commissioner Rosemary Senyamule has expressed optimism that apple farming could become a key driver of the region’s economy, following encouraging results from a local demonstration farm.

The RC made the remarks during a recent visit to a strategic apple farming project in Chinangali II, Chamwino District, where she gained firsthand insight into the cultivation process of the highvalue crop.

“Since apples have not been widely cultivated in many regions as a strategic crop, we decided to focus on them to reduce competition. Soon, apples will be available right here in Dodoma,” said RC Senyamule.

She said there is significant market potential for apples in Tanzania, noting that the majority are currently imported from South Africa due to limited domestic production.

“Apples have many benefits and enjoy strong demand across the country. Even if local production increases and prices fall slightly, the crop will remain profitable for farmers,” she said.

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In addition to visiting the apple demonstration farm, RC Senyamule toured an irrigation farming initiative run by the Wanyausi Manchali ‘A’ group.

Established on December 19, 2023, the group operates under the government’s agricultural initiative, Building a Better Tomorrow (BBT), spearheaded by the Ministry of Agriculture.

The irrigation project features a 160-metre-deep borehole capable of supplying water to up to 150 farms.

A dam constructed nearby can store 850,000 litres of water, ensuring consistent access to irrigation.

The project has significantly improved nutrition among farmers and surrounding communities, enhanced agricultural knowledge through its use as a demonstration site and contributed to increased income for participating farmers.