In Njombe Town Council, avocado growers have voiced concerns over the intermittent electricity supply, which adversely affects their ability to irrigate crops from lower elevations in arid periods. This issue was brought to light during a visit by Njombe Regional Commissioner Anthony Mtaka, aimed at discussing the advancement of high-quality seed production in the locale.
According to farmer Steven Mlimbila, despite substantial investments in avocado cultivation, particularly in the Kifanya area, the absence of a reliable power source poses a significant hurdle. "We have extensive farms under cultivation, but water access is our biggest challenge. While roads are already in place, we urgently need electricity to ensure a reliable water supply," Mlimbila highlighted. He further noted that while Njombe is a hub for modern, sought-after seedlings on the international stage, the practice of importing avocado seeds by some Tanzanians detracts from the local agricultural development efforts.
Eligius Wella, another local farmer, urged Tanesco to extend electrical services to agricultural zones to bolster investor productivity. Echoing this sentiment, Regional Commissioner Mtaka pointed out Njombe's substantial investment in superior seedlings and crop seeds, negating the need for imports.
"There's a booming seedling business in Njombe. Without vigilance, it could become a cyclical trade where someone buys seedlings in Tanzania, exports them to neighboring countries like Kenya or Uganda, and then re-imports them back to Tanzania," Mtaka warned.
With Njombe producing around 1.5 million seedlings each season, as stated by regional agriculture officer Wilson Joel, the region showcases remarkable potential. Regional trade officer Lusungu Mbede emphasized the necessity of adhering to high standards in seedling and avocado production to ensure acceptance in the global market. Notably, countries such as Burundi and Congo are procuring avocado seedlings from Njombe, underscoring their quality. Tanzanians are encouraged to prioritize local seedlings to strengthen the national agricultural landscape.
Source: IPP Media