DODOMA: TANZANIA has achieved remarkable growth in meat production and exports over the past four years, contributing significantly to the economy and transforming the livelihoods of livestock farmers.
The progress reflects the success of Chama Cha Mapinduzi’s (CCM) 2020 election manifesto, in a report presented yesterday in Dodoma during the party’s Extraordinary General Meeting.
The meat production has seen unprecedented growth, supported by infrastructure improvements and strategic policies.
Meat exports soared from 1,669 tonnes in 2020 to 14,701 tonnes in 2024, while foreign exchange earnings from the livestock sector rose sharply from 2.5 million US dollars in 2021 to an impressive 61.4 million US dollars in 2024. The rise in meat production was facilitated by the expansion of processing facilities.
The number of meat processing plants increased from three in 2020 to seven in 2024, enhancing Tanzania’s capacity to meet both local and international demand.
“This growth in meat production and exports highlights the government’s commitment to boosting productivity and creating economic opportunities in the livestock sector,” the report said.
In addition to infrastructure, the government has focused on empowering farmers through skills training and better access to services.
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A total of 240 youth were trained in livestock management through the “Building a Better Tomorrow” (BBT) programme, while 764 extension officers were deployed to local government authorities to provide support to farmers.
Milk production also saw significant growth, rising from 3.1 billion litres in 2020 to 3.97 billion litres in 2024, thanks to an increase in dairy cattle numbers from 1.2 million to 1.4 million.
Beyond the livestock sector, the report highlighted advancements in fisheries, with fish product exports increasing from 167,256 tonnes in 2020 to 199,387 tonnes in 2024.
Foreign exchange earnings from fish products also grew from 2.5 million US dollars in 2021 to 61.4 million US dollars in 2024, driven by investments in fishing port infrastructure and fish farming initiatives.
“These achievements underline the government’s resolve to transform Tanzania’s livestock and fisheries sectors into key drivers of economic growth,” said PM Majaliwa.
He added that the benefits of these milestones are being felt across the country, with improved livelihoods and greater opportunities for farmers and fishers.
