Tanzania's horticultural industry has experienced a remarkable surge in export value, marking a 44% growth in 2023, attributed to the proactive policies implemented by the sixth phase government led by President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
Despite significant challenges faced during the Covid-19 pandemic, the industry has demonstrated resilience, with exports soaring to an impressive $418 million, a substantial increase from $290 million in 2022, according to data from the Bank of Tanzania.
The horticultural sector, a vital contributor to foreign currency earnings, is on a recovery trajectory following the pandemic's detrimental impact, which saw a sub-sector worth $780 million facing severe setbacks.
Fresh statistics from the Ministry of Agriculture highlight the surge in avocado exports, which have risen from 17,711 metric tonnes valued at $51 million in 2021 to 26,826 metric tonnes in 2023, totaling $77 million. This surge is credited to President Samia's initiatives aimed at unlocking global markets for locally-grown avocados.
Dr. Jacqueline Mkindi, Chief Executive Officer of the Tanzania Horticultural Association (TAHA), attributes this incredible growth to the visionary leadership of President Samia. She emphasized the president's dedication to creating a conducive environment and efforts to access global markets, which have propelled the nation's avocado industry to unprecedented heights.
President Samia's strategic state visits to various countries, including China, India, United Arab Emirates (UAE), South Africa, and Nordic countries, have played a pivotal role in opening new markets for Tanzanian avocados, further boosting the industry's growth.
Following a recent state visit to Indonesia, Tanzania is poised to secure a lucrative avocado market in the country, which heavily relies on imports to meet the demands of its growing middle-class population.
Dr. Mkindi believes that Tanzania, with its significant potential for avocado production and strong governmental commitment to exploring international markets, is well-positioned to emerge as a dominant player in horticultural exports.
The president's proactive approach to seeking international market opportunities and facilitating trade agreements indicates a promising trajectory for Tanzania's horticultural industry, according to Dr. Mkindi.
Furthermore, President Samia's strategic policy reforms, including tax exemptions on cold rooms and packaging materials, have significantly amplified storage capacity and packing efficiency, fostering the sector's productivity and growth.
Under President Samia's leadership, Tanzania has witnessed a shift towards environmentally friendly farming techniques, empowering smallholder farmers through financial support, training programs, and access to modern agricultural technologies.
Dr. Mkindi expressed gratitude for the government's initiatives and highlighted TAHA's collaboration with the USAID-supported Tuhifadhi Chakula Project to address post-harvest losses and maximize production.
The launch of the Building a Better Tomorrow Youth Initiative for Agribusiness reflects President Samia's commitment to empowering the youth and ensuring sustainable agricultural practices for future prosperity, concluded Dr. Mkindi.