Govt exempts import duty for USAID’s funded post-harvest loss project

ARUSHA: THE government has announced an extension of import duty exemptions for a new initiative aimed at tackling the significant issue of post-harvest loss in both horticultural and cereal crops across the country.

This initiative, part of the Feed the Future Tanzania, Tuhifadhi Chakula project, is a collaborative effort funded by the US government and led by the Tanzania Horticultural Association (TAHA).

During the launch of a two-day exhibition focused on post-harvest loss management technologies in Arusha, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Mr Gerald Mweli, spoke passionately about the initiative’s impact.

“This is not just a project; it’s a lifeline for our farmers,” he stated. He added, “We aim to reduce post-harvest losses from 30-40 per cent to 15 per cent in horticulture and from 13 per cent to 7 per cent in grains by 2028.”

Mr Mweli emphasised that access to technology is crucial for achieving these targets, as many farmers currently struggle with losses due to pests and inadequate storage facilities.

The exhibition showcased a variety of technologies aimed at enhancing soil health, improving harvesting techniques and optimising processing and packaging. Over 30 companies presented their innovations, all designed to empower farmers to add value to their crops and make them market-ready.

A highlight of the event was Mr Mweli’s discussion on the potential of sunflower production.

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“With just 3m/-, a farmer can purchase a machine to process cooking oil for their community,” he remarked, underscoring the opportunity for self-sufficiency in a country that has relied heavily on imported cooking oil.

This commitment to improving agricultural practices is further demonstrated by the remarkable increase in sunflower production, which has risen from 490,000 tonnes to 1.1 million tonnes in just one year, thanks to government subsidies for high-quality seeds.

This progress showcases the potential of what can be achieved with the right support and resources.

The event also provided a platform for collaboration among stakeholders. Mr Amani Temu, the chief of party for the Feed the Future Tanzania, Tuhifadhi Chakula project, announced plans for annual exhibitions across the country to ensure farmers have consistent access to the latest technologies.

“We will work closely with both the government and private sectors to address policy challenges and reduce post-harvest losses sustainably,” he affirmed.

CEO of TAHA, Dr Jacqueline Mkindi, expressed gratitude for the support from both the Tanzanian government and USAID, acknowledging their pivotal role in strengthening the horticulture industry.

“We are committed to igniting passion among our farmers and ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed,” she stated.

As the exhibition commenced, it was clear that the Feed the Future Tanzania, Tuhifadhi Chakula project represents more than just a series of policies or tax exemptions; it is a beacon of hope for countless farmers across Tanzania. By addressing the critical issues of post-harvest loss, the project promises to transform the agricultural landscape, fostering resilience, self-sufficiency, and a brighter future for the nation’s agricultural sector.