TFRA warns fertiliser agents over violations in Kilimanjaro

KILIMANJARO: THE Tanzania Fertiliser Regulatory Authority (TFRA) has warned distributors of subsidised fertiliser in the Northern Zone that those who violate distribution procedures risk facing legal action, including being taken to court.

The warning was issued by TFRA Northern Zone Manager, Mr Gothard Liampawe, while addressing the fertiliser situation in Kilimanjaro Region following reports of a shortage of the key farm input.

“There are reports that some unscrupulous subsidised fertiliser agents are violating distribution procedures, including selling at prices outside government guidelines. If we find them, we will take action,” he said, noting that such practices undermine food security.

Mr Liampawe said the measures against offenders include freezing accounts linked to fertiliser distribution, revoking licences and instituting legal proceedings. He explained that illegal price increases contribute to what is perceived as a shortage, causing panic among farmers and prompting Members of Parliament from Vunjo and Moshi Rural constituencies to seek clarification, including raising the matter in Parliament.

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“For instance, when fertiliser is sold at inflated prices and farmers fail to afford it, the impression created is that there is no fertiliser, rather than the reality that they cannot meet the unofficial price. This is unacceptable because indicative prices are clearly set,” he said.

Mr Liampawe attributed the rising demand for fertiliser to increased awareness among farmers on its proper use, driven by education campaigns conducted by the government through the Ministry of Agriculture and TFRA.

“The government has been providing education on correct and timely use of fertiliser. As a result, many farmers now understand its importance and have started using it,” he said.

He cautioned agents against exploiting this progress, stressing that the subsidised fertiliser programme was designed to support farmers to increase productivity for national benefit.

“It is not right for agents to use these achievements to oppress farmers, given that the government has established a subsidised system to enable increased food production,” he added.

Mr Liampawe said the number of beneficiaries of subsidised fertiliser in Kilimanjaro Region has risen significantly, from 42,262 in the 2024/2025 agricultural season to 90,444 by March 2026, reflecting growing awareness and uptake among farmers.

“Given this situation, our responsibility at TFRA is to ensure that sufficient fertiliser is available to farmers,” he noted.

He said TFRA is continuing with monitoring to ensure that agents comply with guidelines and that fertiliser reaches farmers on time.

“We are satisfied that agents in Kilimanjaro have so far paid for 247.5 tonnes of fertiliser. Our current focus is to ensure timely transportation, and by Tuesday evening, the first shipment is expected to arrive ready for distribution,” he said.

Mr Liampawe added that the region has 103 registered fertiliser agents, including 72 major distributors supported by 31 outlets extending services to village level.