VP points path to strengthen poultry sector

DAR ES SALAAM: VICE-PRESIDENT Dr Philip Mpango has issued key directives aimed at strengthening Tanzania’s poultry sector, highlighting the importance of collaboration between the government and the private sector to drive economic growth.

The directives were delivered by Deputy Prime Minister, Dr Dotto Biteko on Wednesday at the Poultry Futures Forum Programme in Dar es Salaam.

Dr Mpango called for the establishment of modern hatcheries to address the shortage of egg-laying and meat chickens. He also emphasised the need to invest in modern slaughterhouses to ensure chickens are processed in a clean and safe environment.

Additionally, he proposed setting up factories to produce essential equipment like egg trays, nesting boxes, packaging, incubators and feeders for food and water, which could also serve as demonstration farms.

Another key focus was on locally processing poultry feed to reduce dependence on imports. Dr Mpango highlighted the private sector’s pivotal role in the poultry industry, noting its contributions to investment, innovation, market access, job creation and sustainable practices.

These efforts, he said, are crucial for enhancing productivity, ensuring food security and fostering economic growth. The measures are aimed at improving poultry farming across Tanzania, while reducing reliance on imported parent stock and feed.

The country seeks to boost its self-sufficiency and increase exports in the poultry sector.

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On his part, Minister for Livestock and Fisheries, Mr Abdallah Ulege, praised the forum’s role in identifying opportunities and setting resolutions for the poultry industry. He said the sector is key to food security, foreign exchange generation and supplying raw materials to various industries.

The platform, he added, will also allow member countries to share experiences and strengthen the sustainability of their poultry markets. Last year, Tanzania’s poultry sector had around 1.003 billion chickens, offering employment to numerous women and youth.

Mr Hailemariam Dessalegn, Chair of AGRA and the Africa Food Systems Forum (AGRF) Partners Group, emphasised the private sector’s critical role in supporting agriculture. He noted that the majority of sector activities are led by private entities and their involvement is essential in securing financing to sustain business operations.

This forum marks the first event of its kind in Tanzania, initiated after President Samia Suluhu Hassan, during last year’s AGRF meeting, called for deeper engagement with the poultry sector as part of the nation’s broader agricultural focus.