Kilombero farmers certified in smart farming

MOROGORO: MORE than 700 Kilombero Valley sugarcane farmers have been trained and certified through the Elimu Tija initiative, a partnership between Kilombero Community Charitable Trust (KCCT) and Kilombero Sugar Company (KSCL), enhancing skills in modern farming, finance and sustainability to boost productivity and livelihoods.

This programme reached 734 farmers across 17 AMCOS, providing essential skills in modern sugarcane farming, financial literacy, environmental stewardship and productivity improvement paving the way for a more sustainable and prosperous agricultural future in the region.

All participants completed five comprehensive training modules and were awarded certificates in recognition of their dedication and achievement.

At the closing ceremony, Ifakara Town Council Director, Ms Pilly Kitwana, commended KCCT and Kilombero Sugar Company for their meaningful investment in farmer education.

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“This training offers more than knowledge as it lays the foundation for real transformation in the lives of our people. The government remains committed to supporting these vital efforts for the development of Kilombero’s communities.” Managing Director of Kilombero Sugar and the programme’s main sponsor, Mr Guy Williams, emphasised that KCCT’s long-standing commitment, “KCCT has been active for over 25 years, with Kilombero Sugar as a key partner supporting its mission to improve livelihoods in the Kilombero Valley.

“I congratulate all farmers on completing the training and encourage them to apply their new knowledge to enhance farming practices.” KCCT Chair, Mr Derick Stanley, highlighted the growing need for farmer education, “KCCT has worked tirelessly alongside stakeholders for over 25 years, with Kilombero Sugar as a key partner.

We urge others to join us in empowering the community. “With the upcoming K4 expansion project, farmers have a unique opportunity to adopt best practices and benefit from increased cane demand.” The Director of Kilombero Growers at Kilombero Sugar, Mr Pierre Redinger added, “Empowering farmers with practical skills is the most effective way to drive long-term change in agriculture.

“The overwhelming response and eagerness to learn are encouraging. We look forward to seeing improved productivity and vertical expansion in sugarcane farming.” The KCCT Acting Manager, Ms Willa Haonga, said that the training comprised five structured modules delivered in partnership with organisations supporting environmental education, financial literacy and entrepreneurship.

Farmers who benefited from the programme expressed gratitude and called for its continuation. They recommended establishing demonstration plots and providing learning materials to support hands-on training and improve agricultural practices.