DODOMA: THE US government has reaffirmed its commitment to support Tanzania’s long standing dedication to agricultural growth.
Speaking at the 31st annual Farmers’ Week Exhibition (Nanenane) in Nzuguni, Dodoma yesterday on behalf of the United States and the G20 Agriculture Working Group, US Ambassador to Tanzania, Michael Battle highlighted the vital role of international partnerships in advancing agricultural development.
He underscored the group’s commitment to centralising coordination among development partners.
“Our goal is to harmonise efforts, promote policy dialogue and reduce transactional costs,” he stated, emphasising the importance of collective action to attain the objective.
Ambassador Battle expressed admiration for Tanzania’s longstanding dedication to agricultural progress by recognising Tanzania’s commitment to fostering a competitive economy, while encouraging international engagement.
He reaffirmed the US government support through initiatives like the Feed the Future Initiative, which partners with local farmers and businesses to enhance productivity and nutrition, while tackling food loss and waste.
Highlighting recent achievements, Ambassador Battle proudly announced that USAID Administrator Samantha Power had underscored the need for increased contributions to Food Loss and Waste Accelerator Programmes.
“Our partnership with Tanzania, Kenya and Nepal will bring up to 20 million US dollars in investments to develop processing plants for products such as avocado oil and nutritional animal foods,” Battle revealed, insisting that this initiative is part of a broader effort to leverage private sector investment and advance Tanzania’s agricultural sector.
ALSO READ: EAC seeks to address distribution challenges
Mr Battle also acknowledged President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s efforts to improve the investment climate in Tanzania.
“I thank the president for the bold initiatives taken to enhance Tanzania’s investment environment,” he said.
The envoy stressed the harmonious partnership between the US and Tanzania, affirming that “Tanzania is not only a powerhouse of the African continent but also of the global community.”
“The US government will always stand with the people of Tanzania, especially women, youths and vulnerable communities, to ensure that America’s contributions, alongside Tanzania’s investments, reach those with the greatest potential for growth,” he said.
On his part, CCM Deputy Secretary General (Mainland), Mr John Mongella reaffirmed the party’s deep commitment to the agricultural, livestock and fisheries sectors, as part of crucial sectors outlined in the 2020-2025 Election Manifesto.
Mr Mongella lauded the government’s efforts, under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, emphasing that the implementation of the CCM’s manifesto has been remarkably successful, leading to significant strides in advancing Tanzania’s agricultural landscape.
“The work that has been carried out in these sectors under the leadership of President Samia is not only commendable but also reflective of her determined commitment to the development of our nation,” Mongella stated.
As the next general election looms, Mongella indicated that CCM’s focus will shift towards educating the public about the major projects and developments that the party has spearheaded.
He expressed confidence that the party’s diligent efforts, particularly in implementing its manifesto, will resonate with voters.