Posted on November, 21, 2023 at 08:13 am
DEPUTY Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office (Policy, Parliamentary Affairs and Coordination), Ummy Nderiananga has applauded the Agricultural Seeds Agency (ASA) for successfully concluding phase one of the irrigation infrastructure project at the Kilimi Seed Farm in Nzega District, Tabora Region.
During her official visit to the Kilimi Seed Farm over the weekend, Nderiananga praised ASA’s progress in modern and robust irrigation infrastructure construction, emphasising the government’s goal to boost seed production domestically, reducing reliance on imports.
The project is part of the Agriculture and Fisheries Development Project (AFDP) coordinated by the Prime Minister’s Office, with Ms Ummy expressing government commitment under President Samia Suluhu Hassan to continue supporting modern agriculture and funding crucial initiatives.
Ms Ummy acknowledges the efforts of Agriculture Minister, Mr Hussein Bashe and ASA, highlighting the effective utilisation of project funds to enhance seed production efficiency.
The deputy minister emphasised the government’s commitments to agricultural revolution, promoting irrigation infrastructure and encouraging youth engagement in farming.
Ms Ummy encouraged Tanzanians to trust the government’s agricultural transformation, urging residents, especially in these areas, to seize the opportunity for economic empowerment through improved farming.
ASA’s CEO, Dr Sophia Kashenge, assured that all directives from the deputy minister will be implemented, including increasing seed production to meet the nation’s demand.
Dr Sophia highlighted the past challenges of livestock entering farms, noting efforts are being made to educate local villages and improve security to prevent livestock-related damage to seed farms.
Nzega District Administrative Secretary (DAS), Ms Winfrida Funto, expressed gratitude to the deputy minister for her motivating visit, emphasising the positive impact on agriculture, particularly in irrigation, increasing productivity and moving away from traditional farming practices.
A resident of Bukamba Mpya Village, Ms Joyce Masanja, extended gratitude to the Prime Minister’s Office for coordinating the AFDP Project, facilitated by ASA, which has provided local farmers with access to quality indigenous seeds through seed production farms.
Source: Daily News