Tanzania must invest in cashew processing, says Vice President

Dar es Salaam. Vice President Dr Philip Mpango has called for increased investment in cashew processing and research to boost value addition and incomes for farmers.

Speaking at the launch of the Tanzania International Cashew Conference on Tuesday, October 11, Dr Mpango said that despite the cashew's potential, Tanzania is still exporting 90 percent  of its cashews raw, denying farmers a fair share of the value.

"The participation of the private sector is vital in increasing production and value addition," he said.

The conference brought together over 600 participants from around the world to discuss ways to invest in cashew for sustainable development.

Dr Mpango also emphasized the need to invest in research on quality seeds and to establish processing industries.

He also called for better extension services to provide farmers with the information they need to increase production.

 Cashew Board of Tanzania (CBT) chairman Mr Aloyce Mwanjile said that the conference is the first of its kind to be held in the country and has brought together various stakeholders in the cashew value chain.

"This cashew crop has many byproducts such as cashew fruits that can make wine or juice, also cashew shells are used to make ship fuel and used to remove rust, so this meeting will help to provide various skills and sharing experience to countries which are developed," he said.

The board is also investing in research at the Naliendele Institute Center to develop improved seeds to increase productivity.

Agriculture officer from Nanyamba Town Council Ms Maria Lianzile said that investors must consider the needs of women, who spend most of their time in the fields. She called for investment in technology that reaches all stakeholders.

The conference is expected to discuss technology issues and develop strategies to ensure that all stakeholders participate in the cashew value chain.