NIRC unveils irrigation tech at Nane Nane fair
DODOMA: THE National Irrigation Commission (NIRC) has introduced new state-of-the-art irrigation technologies at the Mitambo Village pavilion during the Nane Nane Agricultural Exhibition in Dodoma.
The innovations include centre pivot irrigation systems, well-drilling machinery, reservoirs and various irrigation techniques such as drip systems. The aim is to educate farmers and stakeholders on modern irrigation practices as part of efforts to transform the agricultural sector through innovative technologies.
Speaking at the Nzuguni grounds in Dodoma, the Acting Director-General of NIRC and Director of Administration and Resource Management, Ms Maria Itembe, said the technologies are new to the Commission but are widely used internationally to revolutionise irrigation farming.
“The Commission is participating in this year’s Nane Nane exhibition here at Nzuguni and we invite farmers and all agricultural stakeholders to visit our pavilion to learn and be inspired to adopt modern water resource management technologies for irrigation,” she said.
Ms Itembe emphasised that irrigation is key to food security, improving household incomes, and boosting the agricultural sector’s contribution to the national economy.
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She noted that NIRC is implementing directives by Vice-President Dr Philip Mpango for public institutions to enhance education, research and technologies that deliver tangible benefits to farmers.
“This year we have brought many new features, including Mitambo Village, which showcases various machinery such as the centre pivot irrigation system, well-drilling trucks, reservoirs and other innovations not seen in previous exhibitions,” she explained.
She added that the technologies are already being installed in several irrigation project farms, in line with government directives to embrace modern technologies in agriculture to increase productivity and efficiency.
“We believe these innovations will enable farmers to learn and access irrigation services in their areas, making year-round farming possible without depending on rainfall,” Ms Itembe stated.
She acknowledged that while the acquisition of modern equipment involves high costs, it has been made possible by the government under President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, which has increased the irrigation sector’s budget and invested significantly in the area.
According to Ms Itembe, the new technologies will improve efficiency, allow multiple harvests annually, ensure food self-sufficiency and stimulate economic growth.
She further said NIRC is collaborating with the private sector to distribute these technologies, promote efficient water use, support agribusiness policies and implement climate-smart farming practices, positioning Tanzania as a leading food producer in Africa and beyond.
