EU envoys praise Kilimanjaro project impact
KILIMANJARO: AMBASSADORS from the European Union (EU) have expressed satisfaction with the implementation and tangible impact of various development projects funded by EU member states in Tanzania.
Speaking to the media over the weekend during a three-day official visit to Kilimanjaro Region, the ambassadors said it was encouraging to see that donor funds were being used effectively to benefit the intended recipients.
“This visit to Kilimanjaro has been very important for us. We were able to see, firsthand, several projects funded by our countries and the positive results we’ve witnessed are truly encouraging,” said France’s Ambassador to Tanzania, Anne-Sophie Avé.
She stressed the importance of donor support yielding sustainable benefits for local communities.
“It is very meaningful when the support we provide helps people uplift themselves. Seeing this kind of progress is both rewarding and motivating,” she added.
On her part, EU Ambassador to Tanzania Christine Grau noted that the visit provided an opportunity to see how EU-supported initiatives have enhanced the well-being of communities, particularly in areas related to agriculture, climate resilience and technology transfer.
“For many years, the EU and its member states have funded development projects and provided access to modern technology. This support has led to significant improvements, especially in post-harvest practices and climate resilience,” Ambassador Grau said.
One of the notable beneficiaries of EU member state support is Kondiki Dairy, based in Moshi.
The company has seen significant growth following its partnership with Poland, facilitated through the Poland East Africa Economic Foundation (PEAEF).
Speaking during the ambassadors’ visit, General Manager Adrian Kimario revealed the transformation that has taken place since the cooperation began in 2019.
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“Before 2019, we were collecting about 1,500 litres of milk per day. Today, thanks to support from PEAEF, we are collecting over 7,000 litres daily,” Kimario said.
He added that the project has also positively impacted smallholder farmers, many of whom have increased their herd size from an average of one cow to three cows per household.
“This rise in milk production has improved household incomes. Farmers are now able to educate their children and build better homes. It’s a life-changing partnership,” he said.
Mr Kimario further noted that the company’s revenues from milk and dairy product sales have grown substantially, increasing from 1.2bn/- in 2014 to over 3bn/- projected in 2025.
During their tour, the ambassadors visited several EU-funded projects, including those focused on women and youth empowerment, coffee production, sustainable forestry education and regional research initiatives.
The visit reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting inclusive development, environmental sustainability and economic growth in Tanzania through strategic partnerships and community-driven projects.
