Farmers introduce new strategy for soil restoration, food security

KILIMANJARO: KILIMANJARO Farmers and Pastoralists Regional Network (MVIWAKI) has unveiled a new strategy aimed at restoring soil ecology to increase food production and improve sustainable agricultural practices in the region.

This was revealed by the network’s Coordinator, Mr Alex Urio, during MVIWAKI’s 18th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held recently in Moshi, Kilimanjaro Region.

In a report read on his behalf by the organisation’s Extension Officer, Mr Joseph Mfanga, Mr Urio said the strategy focuses on educating members on sustainable land use and proper soil management for agriculture.

“Through our educational programmes, MVIWAKI reached 5,076 members in 2024 through the Farm Niarel Project,” he said.

He added that the programme covered training on ecological farming methods, the use of drought-resistant crops, tree planting and beekeeping as a means of environmental protection and sustainability.

Mr Urio noted that the declining productivity of agricultural land is a growing concern that calls for urgent soil restoration measures.

“Healthy soil supports better crop yields, thriving forests, productive pastures for livestock and balanced ecosystems,” he said.

“That’s why we have introduced this agro-ecological strategy, which includes the use of natural fertilisers to preserve biodiversity and improve soil structure, ultimately increasing agricultural output.”

Highlighting other achievements, Mr Urio said MVIWAKI successfully connected 62 groups of its members to financial literacy training, enabling them to save and access loans through banking services.

“In addition, we provided entrepreneurship training to 214 members from Moshi, Same and Siha districts, empowering them to strengthen their businesses and improve their incomes,” he added.

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Speaking during the event, MVIWAKI Chairperson, Ms Grace Ramadhan, acknowledged the achievements but also pointed out key challenges facing the organisation including unpredictable weather patterns in parts of the region, which have disrupted agricultural productivity.

“Another major challenge is limited financial resources, which hinders our ability to reach more members with the support and services they need,” she said.

Outlining future plans, Ms Ramadhan said the network aims to increase its income to strengthen MVIWAKI’s operations at the district level.

She said the organisation also intends to encourage members to design and implement sustainable strategies to boost both agricultural and livestock production and enhance food security.

“Additionally, we aim to strengthen partnerships with development stakeholders, including government authorities, to improve service delivery in the agriculture and livestock sectors,” she concluded.