Tanzania Foreign Investment News (Page 13)

DODOMA — TANZANIA’S avocado farmers are poised for a significant economic boost as China has authorised local companies to export avocados directly to its market worth slightly over 150 million US dollars (about 408.7bn/-).

The Ministry of Agriculture has officially informed the Tanzania Horticultural Association (TAHA) that China has been accepting avocados produced in Tanzania since August 14, 2024.

Dr Jacqueline Mkindi, CEO of TAHA, mentioned that the effort to access the Chinese market began in 2018 when the association recognised its potential.

They wrote a letter to the Government the Ministry of Agriculture, urging them to use official and diplomatic channels to open up the market.

“We are grateful to the Ministry for their leadership and efforts.

Their proactive response and collaboration were crucial in this process.

Their commitment to helping us enter this market is commendable,” said Dr Mkindi.

She also thanked the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) for their valuable participation, stating that it significantly contributed to the initiatives and helped the country achieve this milestone.

Agriculture Minister, Mr Hussein Bashe, informed TAHA members that the government was finalising the official procedures for China to open its market to Tanzanian-grown avocados.

China’s increasing demand for avocados, driven by a health-conscious middle class, has made the fruit a popular choice in the country’s imported fruit market.

Despite being the third-largest avocado producer in Africa, Tanzanian farmers have struggled to access export markets due to the lack of a sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) agreement.

With a population of over 1.4 billion, China, currently the 10th largest avocado importer globally, is expected to become Tanzania’s primary market for avocados.

This is a shift from traditional export markets in Europe and the Middle East.

During President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s state visit to Beijing, Tanzania and China signed a protocol on sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) requirements, allowing Tanzanian avocados to enter China’s vast market.

Dr Mkindi expressed her excitement, stating that China’s decision would benefit local farmers and strengthen trade relations between the two nations.

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She praised President Samia for her diplomatic efforts that led to the opening of the lucrative Chinese market after six years of TAHA’s efforts.

According to Dr Mkindi, the President’s initiative aligns with Tanzania’s national strategy to increase horticultural export value to $2 billion annually by 2030, up from the current 420 million US dollars.

This could also create employment opportunities for youth and women along the value chain. Tanzania’s avocado industry is expected to experience sub stantial growth between 2023 and 2033.

In 2023, avocado exports from Tanzania totaled 26,826.3 metric tonnes, generating revenue of approximately 73 million US Projections from the International Trade Centre (ITC) suggest that by 2033, production could reach 393,669 metric tonnes, with exports projected to reach 236,201.5 metric tonnes, potentially generating revenues of 449 million US dollars.

“This significant increase in production and exports will lead to a substantial boost in revenue and economic opportunities,” Dr Mkindi explained.

Local farmers are likely to see increased incomes, enabling them to invest in advanced farming techniques and technologies to reduce post-harvest losses.

Source: allafrica.com

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DAR ES SALAAM — A COHORT of 39 participants from Tanzania, Kenya, Namibia and Uganda has been officially inducted into the IBA officiating family, following their successful completion of the International Boxing Association (IBA) 1-Star Referee and Judges course.

The week-long course, hosted by the Boxing Federation of Tanzania (BFT) at the Dar es Salaam Police Academy in early August, marks a significant milestone in their officiating careers.

The programme was overseen by Sadie Duffy, Chairperson of the IBA Referees and Judges Committee from Ireland and Godavarisingh Rajcoomar, Chairperson of the African Boxing Confederation (AFBC) Referees and Judges Committee.

Their expertise and guidance were pivotal in the training’s success.

Lukelo Willilo, president of the BFT, expressed optimism about the impact of the course on Tanzanian boxing.

“This training not only equips our officials with new skills but also establishes a strong foundation for the sustainable development of boxing in Tanzania,” Willilo stated.

He highlighted that the investment in referees and judges is crucial for enhancing Tanzania’s international standing in the sport.

“By collaborating with the IBA, we ensure that our referees and judges are gaining valuable insights and skills that will open doors for them on the global stage.

We expect them to bring this expertise to international competitions, contributing to professional and accurate officiating,” he noted.

The course is part of a broader initiative, with 22 IBA educational programmes conducted this year, including courses for referees, judges, coaches and technical officials.

Looking ahead, the next training events will include online 1-Star Coach es courses for Portugal and Brazil, a Champion’s Night course for referees and judges and a session for current ITOs to become IBA Technical Delegates in Assisi from September 5-8.

Source: allafrica.com

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By MOSES K. GAHIGI

A wide range of African vegetable varieties are threatened with extinction, while others have already disappeared as climate change, urbanisation and poor eating habits take their toll.

Speaking at the Africa Food Systems Forum (AFSF) in Kigali this week, experts said many indigenous African vegetable species are already extinct and others will soon disappear if nothing is done.

“The most endangered species are the indigenous African vegetables, due to many historical events, many of the indigenous vegetable varieties have been replaced by exotic breeds, and the challenge now is where to find these materials,” said Dr Sognigbe N’Danikou, a scientist and expert on the conservation and use of traditional vegetables at the World Vegetable Centre, a non-profit involved in vegetable research.

He said, for instance, that a certain type of okra (Abelmoschus manihot), which was widely consumed in West Africa and traditionally used for medicine, is now very difficult to find.

Others, like black night shade and amaranth, are critically endangered, while a host of other edible wild weeds that were eaten in the past have disappeared. Most of these herbs are rich in minerals and vitamins that are vital to local diets.

In the last 100 years, up to 75 percent of the global diversity of African vegetables has been lost, he argued.

A global problem

But the problem is global. The National Geographic recently reported that that between 1903 and 1983, seed varieties shrank by about 93 percent, and 30 years later, the fruits and vegetables from those seeds diminished even more drastically.

For instance, 544 varieties of cabbage shrank to just 28, while 463 kinds of radishes were reduced to 27.

In Africa, urbanisation, climate change and poor farming methods have been some of the biggest threats.

When bushes are cleared to construct roads and expand cities, many vegetable varieties are destroyed never to be seen again, as many of their seeds are not even preserved.

In eSwatini, one of the countries with the highest rate of vegetable extinction, the indiscriminate use of herbicides has been a major cause of species destruction.

Meanwhile floods, landslides and other natural disasters, that come as a result of climate change, have led to the disappearance of some vegetable varieties.

Yet governments and private sector have not done enough to invest in sufficient seed banks and research to protect these vegetables.

Rescue project

At the AFS Forum, the World Vegetable Centre launched the Vegetable Biodiversity Rescue Plan, which will act as a roadmap to address the threats stalking the vegetable species in order to reverse their disappearance.

“The knowledge around these species has also been lost in many traditional communities.

“Africa is also home to many vegetable species whose wild relatives are endangered and disappearing, largely due to urbanisation and climate change. For example, the wild relatives of cowpeas, which is originally domesticated in Africa have disappeared,” said Mr Sognigbe.

He noted that the rescue project will, among other things, seek to collect seeds of these wild varieties and conserve them so that they can be bred in the future.

Read: Farmers in western Kenya show how Africa can feed itself

Up to $12.5 million is required to implement the 10-year rescue plan, and a pilot was carried out with support of the Taiwan Africa Vegetable Initiative from 2021 to 2024, to conserve and use African vegetable biodiversity to address malnutrition.

As part of the pilot project, over 17,000 vegetable varieties have been collected in Benin, Eswatini, Madagascar and Tanzania for preservation.

So far, achievements made through the pilot phase include two newly constructed and three upgraded African genebanks, in addition to training some 174 African genebank staff.

“This is a matter of urgency. Policy makers, scientists and other stakeholders need to join hands in rescuing these endangered vegetable varieties. We are glad private sector entities like Equity Bank has come on board to support these efforts,” said Colleta Ndunguru, the World Vegetable Centre programme manager for Tanzania.

“We need to make room to promote and support farmer-managed seed systems.”

Experts say there is a need to invest in conservation infrastructure at the national level to ensure there are functioning gene banks that can preserve and replicate what farmers have, so that varieties can be preserved before they are lost.

“We need to promote inclusion of these vegetables in our diets by adopting policies that facilitate and encourage farmers to grow these materials and also consumers to integrate these in their diets,” she said.

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As online fraud and technological challenges threaten financial systems, stakeholders across East Africa are gearing up for a major collaborative effort.

The Tanzania Fintech Association (TAFINA) is leading the charge with the East African Fintech Investment Forum (EAIF) 2024, an event set to transform the region’s fintech landscape.

The two-day forum, beginning next Thursday in Dar es Salaam, will unite investors, regulators and financial institutions from across East Africa.

The forum aims to spark critical discussions and idea-sharing on combating online fraud and exploring the practical applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in addressing these issues. TAFINA Vice Chairperson Reuben Mwatosya highlighted the need for collective problem-solving in facing technological challenges.

“There are various technological issues that require collaboration and idea exchange from different institutions. For instance, tackling the misuse of AI in fraud needs a unified approach to develop effective solutions,” Mr Mwatosya said.

This year’s forum theme, “Invest & Partner: Leave No One Behind,” reflects the commitment to promoting inclusive growth and forging meaningful partnerships within the rapidly evolving fintech sector of East Africa. Shadrack Kamenya, Secretary General of TAFINA, expressed excitement about the event.

“We are thrilled to host this year’s East African Fintech Investment Forum. Our program is designed to address both the unique challenges and opportunities in the fintech landscape. We look forward to bringing together industry leaders, innovators and investors for what promises to be an impactful and engaging event.” Through initiatives like the EAIF, TAFINA aims to create an environment that fosters innovation, investment and sustainable economic development. The upcoming forum is poised to be a milestone event, advancing the future of fintech in East Africa.

Source: allafrica.com

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Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Jacob Mkunda, emphasised the government’s substantial investments that have significantly boosted the Tanzania People’s Defence Forces (TPDF), marking a pivotal point in the army’s 60-year journey.

Speaking at a grand event at Uhuru Stadium, where TPDF celebrated its six decades of service, General Mkunda highlighted the role of successive governments, particularly under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, in enhancing military capacity.

The anniversary event showcased the evolution of the TPDF, featuring stateof-the-art equipment and military demonstrations that reflected the transformative impact of these investments on the nation’s defense capabilities.

General Mkunda acknowledged the importance of government support, citing crucial resources that have enabled the military to safeguard national borders effectively.

Equally, General Mkunda praised the leadership of President Samia and her predecessors, stating, “Various equipment utilised by TPDF, some showcased and others yet to be revealed, have been procured through the efforts of successive leaderships, including the sixth phase government under President Samia Suluhu Hassan.”

He expressed deep gratitude to Tanzanians for their unwavering support over the past six decades, noting their patriotism as a driving force behind the military’s dedication.

“When we remember that we have Tanzanians backing us, our morale to perform our duties increases exponentially,” he added.

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The event featured an exhibition of TPDF’s diverse arsenal, including armored vehicles and helicopters. Attendees were treated to demonstrations of TPDF’s strategic capabilities, such as the use of dogs in crime fighting and advanced commando tactics.

To commemorate the 60th anniversary, President Samia officially launched a special book detailing the history and achievements of the TPDF, highlighting the ongoing commitment to national defense.

Again, General Mkunda assured the nation that the TPDF would continue to uphold its duties with the highest level of expertise, reaffirming the military’s commitment to protecting Tanzania’s sovereignty and security. CDF also commended military officers and soldiers for their unwavering professionalism and dedication over the decades.

General Mkunda assured the nation that the military will continue to uphold its duties with the highest level of expertise, adhering to the principles and oaths that define their service.

ALSO READ: Tremendous accomplishments

As TPDF looks back on its six-decade journey, the anniversary serves not only as a celebration of past accomplishments but also as a reaffirmation of the military’s commitment to protecting the sovereignty and security of Tanzania.

Source: allafrica.com

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DAR ES SALAAM: THE bilateral trade between Tanzania and Brazil has reached 74.8 million US dollars (203.2bn/-) in a decade, reflecting a steady growth of economic ties between the two countries.

The increased trade volume is equivalent to 13 per cent increase in 12 years compared to the previous record of 66 million US dollars set in 2011.

The Ambassador of Brazil to Tanzania, Mr Gustavo Nogueira, said last Friday during the Brazil-Tanzania business seminar that despite the current figures, there is potential for further expansion of the bilateral trade.

“I’m confident that this trade mission will significantly contribute to furthering our countries’ shared goal of increasing bilateral trade and investment and ensuring mutual prosperity for our businesses and citizens.

“We believe that these countries have the opportunities to share with each other, to grow with each other, to learn from each other in a partnership among equals,” he said.

The main exports from Brazil to Tanzania are poultry meat, heavy construction vehicles and raw sugar while Tanzania exports vinyl polymers and also raw tobacco.

He said due to the Tanzania’s population of 65 million people, Brazil realises how crucial it will be for locals to promote its industrial base, to promote its manufacturing base, to create wealth in order to provide jobs and opportunities for its growing population.

He added that the country’s government efforts to improve the regional transport infrastructure of ports, roads and railways to further benefit from this geographic dividend, is vital for investment.

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“These important infrastructure projects will expand trade opportunities not just to East Africa and Southern Africa, but also to Asia, the Arab world and beyond,” Amb Gustavo added.

Minister for Industry and Trade Dr Selemani Jafo said the trade between the two countries remains relatively good, but need some improvement as the trade volume among the two countries remain low.

Last year, Tanzania export to Brazil was valued at 0.1 million US dollars while Brazil’s exports to the country were valued at 64.6 million US dollars.

“These statistics indicate that there is great work to be done to explore the existing potential to increase trade volume among us,” he said.

He underscored the government’s commitment to fostering business growth and enhancing investment opportunities.

ALSO READ: How can EAC enhance intra-trade, investments

Various initiatives to improve the country’s business environment have been conducted by the government including the recent launch of the Electronic Investment Window, a new Trade Policy for 2023 and the formation of the Presidential Commission on Tax Reforms to review and advise on tax issues.

“These initiatives are designed to promote business and improve the investment climate in the country, positioning the private sector as a central player in our economic activities,” he said.

The minister added that there should be a need to expand production beyond traditional ways to the value-added products with higher profit margins and to strengthen the country’s supply chain to ensure consistent product quality and timely delivery.

Source: allafrica.com

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