The Southern Agricultural Growth Corridor of Tanzania (SAGCOT) has identified Ruvuma as a fertile region for round potato cultivation, aiming to transform local livelihoods. Geoffrey Kirenga, SAGCOT's Managing Director, highlighted the region's potential, verified through soil assessments in Songea, Namtumbo, and Madaba districts, complemented by successful demonstration farms. SAGCOT's commitment to fostering round potato farming's success and sustainability was emphasized, with the objective of positively impacting farmers' lives.
Research in Songea District, spanning 2020 to 2024, revealed notable achievements in round potato yield, with one acre generating income exceeding 10m/-. Songea Municipality's Mayor, Michael Mbano, acknowledged the significant yields of up to 200 bags per acre, underscoring agriculture's potential for job creation. SAGCOT's role in advancing commercial agriculture, through education and connecting farmers with financial and market resources, was also noted.
Source: ippmedia.com