DAR ES SALAAM: THE government has reiterated its commitment to using biotechnology to boost agricultural productivity by providing farmers and stakeholders with improved tools and a wider range of solutions to overcome production challenges.
Key obstacles include limited understanding and awareness of modern biotechnology, a lack of job opportunities for graduates in the field and insufficient recognition of their qualifications in the job market.
To address these issues, it is crucial to empower individuals within the agricultural value chain with access to the right technologies and support researchers.
Biotechnology Society of Tanzania (BST) guardian, Prof Jumanne Maghembe, emphasised that advanced techniques could improve soil health, increase crop resistance and produce better seeds for future planting seasons.
“Biotechnology can develop drought-resistant crop varieties, ensuring higher yields in areas with erratic rainfall and helping to secure food supplies in water-scarce regions,” he stated during the Biotechnology Society of Tanzania conference in Dar es Salaam.
Commenting, the Dar es Salaam Regional Administrative Secretary (RAS) Dr Toba Nguvila, stressed the importance of more education to ensure the proper use of biotechnology and further empowerment of researchers.
“Biotechnology can help improve crop production, reduce pest damage and increase yields,” Dr Nguvila said, explaining that as more farmers adopt biotechnology, the entire value chain benefits, providing producers and distributors with the right tools and knowledge.
The government has also committed to supporting farmers with advanced technology and tools to tackle biotechnology challenges.
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Furthermore, it has made progress in establishing biosafety regulations and guidelines, with the approval process for genetically modified (GM) crops still under careful consideration.
Despite this, Dr Nguvila highlighted biotechnology’s potential to improve crop productivity for smallholder farmers, enhancing crop resistance to environmental stressors such as extreme temperatures and poor soil conditions, ultimately leading to higher yields and more efficient land use.
Ms Mbuyage Mabusi, a farmer who once doubted biotechnology and relied on traditional methods, shared her positive experience after attending BST workshops.
“These advancements can help us increase productivity, improve food security and reduce farming’s environmental impact. I saw the difference when biotechnology helped us grow healthier, more pest-resistant crops,” she said.
Biotechnology is revolutionising agriculture by offering innovative solutions to improve productivity. As the global population grows and climate change strains food systems, biotechnology can play a vital role in ensuring food security.
By developing genetically modified crops that are resistant to pests, diseases and environmental stresses, farmers can increase yields and reduce reliance on chemical pesticides, fostering sustainable farming practices and a lower environmental impact.
In Tanzania, biotechnology’s potential is especially important for smallholder farmers facing challenges with changing weather patterns and soil conditions.
Biotechnology can produce crops tailored to withstand drought, improve nutrient content and thrive in less-than-ideal soils, helping farmers achieve higher productivity and ensure food availability, even in areas with unpredictable rainfall or extreme conditions.
Moreover, biotechnology can boost local economies by creating job opportunities, improving food processing and increasing exports.
As Tanzania continues to invest in biotechnology research and its practical applications, the country’s agricultural sector will strengthen, fostering resilient, sustainable farming systems that contribute to long-term economic growth.
