Agroforestry is gaining attention in Tanzania as a viable green investment opportunity for the country's youth. This approach combines trees with crops and livestock, allowing farmers to generate income while improving land sustainability. The concept is part of the country's newly launched Tanzania Development Vision 2050, which aims to transform Tanzania into a prosperous and self-reliant nation. The vision prioritizes economic transformation, agricultural productivity, and sustainable growth.
The 11th National Agroforestry Symposium will bring together stakeholders to examine how trees can be part of commercially viable agricultural systems and green investments. Organized by Vi Agroforestry, the event will take place from October 19 to 21, 2026, in Musoma, under the theme "Agroforestry for Youth and Green Investment." The symposium is expected to attract 8,000 participants, including government representatives, farmers, researchers, and young people. The event aims to transform agroforestry opportunities into investments that generate livelihoods and contribute to food security and landscape restoration.
Vi Agroforestry Country Manager, Ms. Martha Olotu, emphasized the need to turn agroforestry opportunities into scalable investments that create youth livelihoods and restore landscapes. The symposium will focus on agroforestry enterprises, investment opportunities, financial inclusion, and market linkages. Participants will examine where capital can enter the sector and how young entrepreneurs can participate. The event will also discuss climate action, food security, biodiversity conservation, and landscape restoration.
The government is seeking to translate the ambitions of Vision 2050 into practical investments and economic opportunities. The National Planning Commission has stressed that agriculture transformation, food systems, youth employment, and private-sector participation are crucial components of implementing Vision 2050. The commission aims to increase agricultural productivity, promote commercial production, and expand the use of technology. Agroforestry is seen as a key sector that can contribute to these goals.
Agriculture is a significant source of employment and food in Tanzania, providing opportunities for over 75% of Tanzanians. The government links agricultural development with processing, domestic markets, and exports. However, the challenge is to develop value chains that make sustainable land management economically attractive. The symposium's focus on investment is significant in this regard. The event will also provide a platform for young Tanzanians to discuss barriers to participation in agricultural enterprises.
The Youth Townhall will allow young people to engage with policymakers, financiers, investors, farmers, and businesses on access to finance, land, markets, and technical support. This approach aligns with the Vision 2050 call for young people to become active participants in economic transformation. The National Planning Commission has urged young Tanzanians to use innovation, technology, research, and entrepreneurship to contribute to the country's transformation. Agroforestry can provide opportunities for youth participation across the value chain, from production to processing and marketing.
The symposium will support the development of market-oriented and inclusive agroforestry value chains. Organizers expect discussions to identify investment-ready agroforestry models, youth enterprises, financing gaps, and priority actions. The emphasis on finance is crucial, as turning climate-friendly ideas into businesses requires capital. The Tanzania Agricultural Development Bank has launched its Green Agri-Finance Strategy 2025–2027, aimed at accelerating climate-smart agricultural transformation. The Green Futures Tree Planting Campaign will also connect investment discussions with action on the ground.
Key points
- The 11th National Agroforestry Symposium aims to transform agroforestry opportunities into investments that generate livelihoods and contribute to food security and landscape restoration.
- The event will focus on agroforestry enterprises, investment opportunities, financial inclusion, and market linkages.
- The symposium aligns with Tanzania's Development Vision 2050, which prioritizes economic transformation, agricultural productivity, and sustainable growth.
