TANZANIA PRIORITISES IRRIGATION, AGRIBUSINESS AND YOUTH EMPOWERMENT IN AGRA TALKS
Tanzania's Prime Minister Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba has outlined government investments in irrigation, improved seeds, agricultural research and agro-processing during talks with AGRA President Alice Ruhweza in Iowa, United States. The discussions also highlighted measures to improve young people's access to agricultural land, training and financing.
DES MOINES, Iowa, October 21, 2026 — Tanzania is stepping up investment in irrigation, agricultural research, improved seeds and agro-processing infrastructure as part of efforts to modernise its agricultural sector and expand economic opportunities for young people, Prime Minister Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba has said.
The Prime Minister outlined the Government's priorities during talks with AGRA President Alice Ruhweza on the sidelines of the Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue (Borlaug Dialogue) in Des Moines, Iowa, United States.
Dr. Nchemba is attending the international agricultural forum on behalf of President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan.
Tanzania Prioritises Agricultural Infrastructure and Productivity
During the meeting, Prime Minister Nchemba highlighted the Government's ongoing investment in irrigation systems, improved seed production, agricultural research, extension services, storage facilities and agro-processing infrastructure.
The initiatives are intended to improve agricultural productivity, strengthen food security and support value addition across the country's agricultural sector.
Government Expands Opportunities for Youth in Agriculture
The Prime Minister also outlined measures to address challenges limiting young people's participation in agriculture, particularly access to land, technical skills and financing.
He said the Government is working to facilitate access to agricultural land, provide training and connect young people with financial institutions to secure capital for farming activities.
The financing initiatives are designed to help young farmers and agribusiness entrepreneurs acquire improved seeds, agricultural equipment, machinery and other essential inputs.
Borlaug Dialogue Highlights Agricultural Development Priorities
The meeting between Prime Minister Nchemba and AGRA President Ruhweza took place during the 2026 Borlaug Dialogue, an international forum focused on agriculture, food security and sustainable development.
Tanzania's participation provides an opportunity to highlight its agricultural development priorities and engage with international stakeholders on approaches to improving productivity and expanding opportunities across agricultural value chains.
The Government's investment priorities reflect its wider efforts to develop a more productive and inclusive agricultural sector while enabling young people to participate more actively in agribusiness and related economic activities.