Government moves to ramp up wheat production in Makete

Njombe. The government has pledged its commitment to support wheat farmers in Makete District by distributing free seeds to boost production and reduce Tanzania’s reliance on imports.

Makete District of the southern highland region of Njombe is one of the areas that produce wheat with production estimated at 19,700 tonnes last year.

Makete District Commissioner Juma Sweda highlighted the government's goal to enhance wheat farming and improve farmers' incomes while reducing the country’s dependence on imported wheat.

Read: Tanzania 'relies too much on wheat imports' 

He was speaking yesterday while receiving 240 tonnes of subsidised wheat seeds earmarked for farmers in the district.

“This district is among the areas in the southern highlands with favourable weather conditions for wheat cultivation. Farmers should start preparing their fields, as the seeds are already here,” he said. He stressed the importance of swift distribution to ensure timely planting, given the short farming season.

Mr Sweda also expressed his gratitude to the sixth phase government, led by President Samia Suluhu Hassan, for its efforts in supporting wheat farmers by providing the subsidised seeds.

Makete District wheat coordinator Ahmed Kichombaki said three distribution centres had been set up at Ngiu Market in Iwawa Ward, Tandala, and Mfumbi to meet farmers' needs.

He noted that the seeds, which typically sell for Sh4,000 per kilogramme, would have cost farmers Sh280,000 per acre had they been purchased, but the subsidy significantly eased the financial burden.

“We aim to receive over 1,000 tonnes of wheat seeds this year due to high demand, sufficient arable land, and increased farmer enthusiasm,” Mr Kichombaki said.

He revealed that two years ago, the district received 80 tonnes of seeds, which increased to 535 tonnes last year. This year, the target is 1,000 tonnes.

Read: Government assurance as war pushes up wheat prices

Production growth

According to Mr Kichombaki, wheat production in Makete has seen significant growth, from 14,000 tonnes two years ago to 19,700 tonnes last year, with an expected output of 25,000 tonnes this year.

“These are great achievements, as farmers’ incomes have also increased. Previously, a kilogramme of wheat was sold for Sh500 to Sh700. Now, farmers sell at Sh1,000 per kilogramme,” he said, adding that by 14 November last year, wheat sales had generated a total of Sh3.99 billion, which significantly boosted the district’s economy.

A wheat farmer in Makete, Ms Jeita Mahenge, said the growing demand for wheat had been driven by major companies purchasing directly from farmers.

“Wheat farming is very beneficial. We sell it for income, and we also use it to produce food items like bread and flour,” Ms Mahenge said.