MPs tout increased investment in agriculture

DODOMA: MEMBERS of Parliament (MPs) have called on the government to prioritise investment in agriculture and education, arguing that both sectors are key to addressing the country’s pressing socio-economic challenges.

They said that these areas are essential for economic growth, poverty reduction and job creation.

The legislators shared their recommendations during the National Assembly’s debate on the budget framework proposal and the National Development Plan for the 2025/2026 fiscal year.

Geita Town MP Constantine Kanyasu (CCM) underscored the importance of agriculture, noting that it remains Tanzania’s largest employer.

He stressed that productivity in the sector is still too low, urging for improvements in extension services to make them more accessible and effective.

“Agriculture is our main source of employment, but we need to boost productivity,” Kanyasu said.

“We must invest in irrigation systems, especially given the demand for our food from neighbouring countries,” he said, further calling for the efficient use of funds allocated to agriculture to ensure that resources are effectively utilised to raise rural incomes.

He added, “The key to lifting our people out of poverty is agriculture. I urge the government to increase funding for this sector and ensure it is used effectively.”

On education, Kanyasu raised concerns about the limited capacity in Tanzanian universities, particularly in medical programmes.

Despite top-performing students in science streams such as Physics, Chemistry and Biology (PCB), many are unable to pursue medicine due to space constraints.

“We have high-achieving students who cannot pursue medicine because universities are full. This forces them to shift to other fields, which could create a future shortage of skilled professionals,” he said.

Kanyasu called for the expansion of medical training programmes and the establishment of more institutions to accommodate the growing demand.

Other MPs echoed similar concerns, with many emphasising the need to prioritise agriculture, especially in irrigation.

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Bukene MP Selemani Zedi (CCM) supported the idea of allocating funds for fertilisers and modern seeds, which are essential for increasing crop yields.

“Investing in modern seeds and fertilisers is key to improving agricultural productivity and enhancing the quality of life for our citizens,” Zedi said.

He also called for improved rural infrastructure, particularly roads, to help farmers transport their produce to markets and increase their income opportunities.

“Better roads are crucial for farmers. We must invest in infrastructure to ensure that farmers can easily access markets and improve their livelihoods,” he added.

Zedi also advocated for extending electricity access to rural areas, which would enable farmers to process their products and add value to their crops.

Mr Zedi suggested an increase in funding for scholarships and student loans, noting that the current system struggles to identify students from lowincome backgrounds who need financial support.

“Our loan system needs reform to ensure that students from modest backgrounds have access to higher education,” he said.

Special Seats MP Sophia Mwakagenda (CHADEMA) also underscored the importance of agriculture, given that more than 70 per cent of Tanzania’s population depends on farming.

She called for timely distribution of seeds and fertilisers and urged the government to invest more in agricultural research, particularly in high-value crops like avocado.

On education, she stressed the need for improvements in technical education, particularly in fields like Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and artificial intelligence (AI), to better equip students for future job markets.

Singida East legislator Miraji Mtaturu (CCM), noted that investment in irrigation and education would contribute to both poverty reduction and improved food security. He emphasised the role of education in empowering the youth and reducing unemployment.

Ukerewe MP Joseph Mkundi (CCM) said that investing in irrigation and quality education remain crucial drivers for inclusive economic growth and job creation.

He recommended utilising Tanzania’s water resources more effectively to support productive, modern agriculture.

“With over 4,000 hectares of land suitable for irrigation, we must invest in systems that allow efficient use of water,” Mkundi said, adding, “Modern, irrigated agriculture is the way forward if we are to tackle the job crisis and improve food security.”