TIC invites coconut value chain partnerships
DAR ES SALAAM: THE Tanzania Investment Centre (TIC) has invited the public to submit investment project proposals related to the coconut value chain, seeking partnerships to attract capital, modern technology and create jobs through efficient operations.
Projects requiring partners should include essential information such as the company name, project name, location, sector, project area size and a detailed description.
According to a public notice issued by TIC on Thursday, the description should cover a project summary, its uniqueness, sector analysis, competitive landscape, market analysis, enabling services and access to social services like roads, water and electricity.
“Cost estimates for project implementation should also be included,” the notice reads in part. Additional information required includes the current project status, project value (confirmed funds, funding needed and the owner’s contribution), contact details, a copy of the title deed and project photos.
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A 2010 study conducted on the coconut value chain in Tanzania, focusing on Tanga and Dar es Salaam regions, highlighted several key challenges in the sub-sector.
These include low value addition, low producer prices and pests and diseases attacking coconut plants. According to the study, 90 per cent of coconuts were sold to wholesalers as fresh produce without undergoing any processing.
The study identified the absence of coconut processing industries, low producer prices and a lack of collective market organisation as major obstacles to the sector’s growth.
It recommended the establishment of coconut processing industries, the formation of producer organisations, improved road and market infrastructure and stronger research and extension services to combat pests and diseases.
Furthermore, the National Sample Census of Agriculture 2019/2020 shows that 261,033 households were engaged in coconut production across Tanzania, with a total of 91,339 tonnes harvested from both Mainland and Zanzibar, signalling potential growth in the sector.
