IFAD pledges to continue supporting rural projects
UNITED STATES: THE International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) will continue supporting projects aimed at tackling hunger and poverty by investing in rural communities, improving market access and helping them cope with climate change in the country.
The commitment was discussed during talks between Prime Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba and IFAD VicePresident, Dr Geraldine Mukeshimana, on agriculture, fisheries and the blue economy.
The two met on the sidelines of the Norman E Borlaug International Dialogue in Des Moines, Iowa, in the United States (US) on Tuesday.
During the talks, Dr Nchemba thanked IFAD for supporting deep-sea fishing projects under the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, as well as initiatives to develop the blue economy through Zanzibar’s Ministry of Blue Economy and Fisheries.
He said the projects were a priority because of their potential to create jobs, particularly for women and young people.
“These projects are important and are being given greater priority because they help create jobs for women and young people,” said Dr Nchemba.
Dr Mukeshimana commended Tanzania for its contribution to food production and its role in supplying neighbouring areas with reliable food supplies.
“Personally, I commend you because you have continued to be a hub for reliable food production in Africa. You are doing a great and commendable job of supplying food to neighbouring areas,” she said.
She also congratulated Dr Nchemba on his appointment as Prime Minister, noting that his experience in various ministries, including Finance and Agriculture, had equipped him with valuable knowledge to advance the agricultural sector.
In a separate meeting on the sidelines of the dialogue, Dr Nchemba met the 2026 World Food Prize laureate, Mr Huub Lelieveld, and outlined government measures to strengthen the agricultural sector.
He said Tanzanian agricultural researchers continued to learn from Mr Lelieveld’s work, including his contribution to preserving food through natural methods.
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Mr Lelieveld is a Dutch scientist whose work focuses on food safety and food security. He was named the 2026 World Food Prize laureate by the World Food Prize Foundation.
Dr Nchemba arrived in the US on Saturday to represent President Samia Suluhu Hassan at the international dialogue.
During the event, he is expected to deliver the keynote address and participate in discussions on agricultural development, food security and the use of technology to improve productivity.
He will also outline Tanzania’s agricultural priorities and promote trade and investment opportunities in the sector.
The delegation accompanying him includes Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation Dr Ngwaru Maghembe, Deputy Minister for Agriculture David Silinde and other government officials.
