KILIMANJARO: LEADERS in Same District, Kilimanjaro Region, have been urged to promote agroprocessing industries that would enable farmers to add value to their produce, increase earnings and stimulate local economic growth.
The call was made by the Minister of State in the VicePresident’s Office (Union and Environment), Engineer Hamad Masauni, during an event to mark the completion of the Saseni Water Channel project in Same District.
In a speech read on his behalf by Mwanga District Commissioner, Mr Hassan Bomboko, the Minister said establishing small-scale industries would help create a diversified and self-sustaining local economy by allowing farmers to earn more from their agricultural produce.
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“With the national economy experiencing growth, I call on leaders in Same District to develop programmes that will support the establishment of value-added businesses, enabling farmers to move away from selling low-margin raw crops and capture a greater share of the profits,” he said.
He commended Floresta Tanzania for designing and successfully implementing the project, saying its interventions had contributed to improved agricultural production, household incomes and environmental conservation in the district.
Eng Masauni said about 80 per cent of farmers had benefited from improved harvests through training facilitated by the organisation, helping strengthen food security and provide additional income.
The minister urged residents and institutions, including hotels and tour operators, to prioritise locally produced goods, saying increased demand would encourage farmers and entrepreneurs to expand production, thereby strengthening local livelihoods and the national economy.