TARI strengthens cassava research partnership

DODOMA: THE Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI) has hosted visitors from Cornell University and the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture as part of efforts to strengthen cooperation in cassava farming development in the country.

The visit aimed at enhancing collaboration in agricultural research and improving cassava production through the exchange of knowledge, technology and expertise.

The visit took place recently at the TARI headquarters in Dodoma, where the delegation witnessed achievements recorded under the cassava improvement project being implemented jointly by TARI, Cornell University and IITA.

Speaking during the visit, TARI Director General, Dr Thomas Bwana, said the institution will continue investing in modern research and strengthening collaboration with various stakeholders, including the private sector, to ensure farmers have timely access to highquality seeds.

On his part, IITA representative and Seed Systems Specialist Consultant, Dr Kiddo Julius Mtunda, accompanied by Prof Hale Ann Tufan from Cornell University and Prof Chiedozie Egesi from the National Root Crops Research Institute in Umudike, Nigeria, said the project has successfully distributed 1.9 million cassava cuttings through collaboration with TARI.

He explained that the project has reached approximately 3,996 farmers while also improving nutrition among primary school pupils in more than 12 project implementation areas.

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After the meeting, the delegation visited the TARI Makutopora Centre, where they observed various grape research activities as well as value addition initiatives undertaken through a small processing factory at the centre.

Acting Director of TARI Makutopora, researcher Isack Teya, briefed the visitors on different grape varieties cultivated at the centre, their uses and the process of producing high-quality wine. The Better Cassava Project, funded by Cornell University and coordinated by IITA in collaboration with TARI, is being implemented in Tabora, Kigoma, Katavi, Singida and Rukwa regions.

The project aims at promoting the use of high-quality cassava seeds resistant to viral diseases, developing improved production techniques and increasing incomes for smallholder farmers. It also contributes to strengthening food security and addressing the shortage of quality cassava seeds in the country.