Tanzanian Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba has instructed the National Food Reserve Agency (NFRA) to expedite procedures for selling agricultural produce whenever markets become available. This directive aims to prevent the loss of business opportunities due to lengthy processes. The Prime Minister made this statement in Parliament in Dodoma on November 5, 2026, during the Prime Minister's question-and-answer session.
The Prime Minister's directive was in response to a question from Kongwa MP, Isaya Mngurumi Moses, who sought to know the government's strategies for securing markets and improving crop prices to benefit farmers. Dr. Nchemba emphasized that prompt completion of sales procedures by NFRA is crucial to avoid losing potential buyers to other markets where transactions are processed more quickly.
The government has been actively seeking reliable markets and facilitating the export of agricultural produce. Dr. Nchemba noted that engagements with leaders of various countries have been used to secure markets for Tanzanian agricultural produce and expand trading opportunities for farmers. This effort aims to improve the livelihoods of farmers by providing them with better market access.
In an effort to improve crop prices, the government has increased the maize purchasing price through NFRA from 450/- to 500/- per kilogramme. The Prime Minister mentioned that he had held discussions with the ministry responsible for agriculture to further improve the purchasing price offered by NFRA. The price had previously been increased from 200/- to 300/-, and then to 450/-.
Dr. Nchemba urged farmers with maize to sell to visit NFRA regional and zonal offices to benefit from the improved purchasing price. He encouraged relevant institutions to continue seeking reliable markets and facilitating the export of agricultural produce. This, he believes, will help farmers benefit from their production.
The Prime Minister's statement highlights the government's efforts to support farmers and improve the agricultural sector. By expediting sales procedures and improving crop prices, the government aims to increase farmers' income and stimulate economic growth. The government's initiatives are expected to have a positive impact on the lives of farmers and the overall economy.
The increased maize purchasing price and expedited sales procedures are expected to benefit farmers across the country. The government's efforts to secure markets and facilitate exports will help to increase the competitiveness of Tanzanian agricultural produce in the global market. This, in turn, is expected to contribute to the country's economic growth and development.
Key points
- The Tanzanian government has increased the maize purchasing price through NFRA from 450/- to 500/- per kilogramme to improve crop prices and benefit farmers.
- The Prime Minister has directed NFRA to expedite procedures for selling agricultural produce to tap into market opportunities and prevent losses due to lengthy processes.
- The government is actively seeking reliable markets and facilitating the export of agricultural produce to improve the livelihoods of farmers.
