Empowering Kigoma’s Farmers and Youth: An Impactful Initiative

UNDP in collaboration with Norway and Ireland, is catalysing positive change in the Kibondo and Kasulu districts, Kigoma region. Our mission is to empower local farmers in maize cultivation and value addition, aiming to revolutionise farming into a commercially viable and sustainable enterprise. This transformational journey is made possible through our dynamic partnership with Sokoine University Graduate Entrepreneurs Cooperative (SUGECO), under the Kigoma Joint Program phase II (KJP II).

Training for Prosperity

The Local farmers, have undergone specialised training led by extension officers who are trained by our partners at SUGECO. The objective is clear: empower 400 farmers with optimal practices for cassava, maize, and beans. To boost their efforts, participants receive solar-powered drying racks for cassava products and essential farming equipment, including seedlings and fertilisers. This initiative is a vital part of KJP II, highlighting the power of collaboration and sustainable development.

Empowering  Youth and Women

Furthermore, we have also joined hands with the Fisheries Education and Training Agency (FETA) Kigoma campus to empower the youth and women of Kibondo district. Through a 10-day training series, we introduced integrated agro-fish farming to the community. This practice combines fish farming with environmentally responsible techniques, ensuring that waste products like water are utilised in horticulture (integrated agro-aquaculture).

Graduation Ceremony and a Vision for the Future

The graduation ceremony marked the culmination of this transformative program. Hon. Col. Evance Mallasa, Kakonko District Commissioner, graced the occasion and emphasised the importance of applying the gained knowledge to unlock the potential of fish farming in Kibondo district. "You have received excellent training from our experts in collaboration with UNDP and partners; use this knowledge to make a positive impact on our community in Kibondo", he urged. A total of 61 participants completed the training and received certificates issued by FETA.

UNDP Tanzania and partners remains committed to fostering sustainable development and empowering communities in the Kigoma region. Our collaborative efforts continue to make a difference, helping to create a brighter and more prosperous future for all.