17 Jul

Empowering Farmers in Mtwara: A Successful Training Initiative

In June 2024, SUGECO conducted a four-day step-down training for 300 farmers in Mtwara DC and Nanyamba Council. This initiative is part of the "Enhancing Inclusive Recovery and Resilience Building for Flood-Affected Communities in Mtwara" project, funded by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP).

The training equips local farmers with essential skills to empower them with the necessary tools and knowledge to thrive in their agricultural enterprises. 

Throughout the training, the SUGECO and UNDP teams provided full supervision, ensuring that the farmers could effectively learn and apply the new techniques. 

With a hands-on approach, participants can engage directly with the material, fostering a deeper understanding and competence in the new practices, with both a practical and a theoretical instruction that focuses on the cultivation of green gram, cassava, and various horticultural crops. 

Agribusiness skills help farmers understand market dynamics to manage their farms as profitable enterprises. Also, climate-smart agricultural practices teach them how to adapt to changing weather patterns and environmental conditions to improve sustainability. An emphasis is also put on the importance of maintaining soil health, proper planting techniques, and pest management.

By the end of the training, the farmers are well-prepared to enhance their production both for household consumption and for commercial purposes. 

Seeds Distribution 

As part of the same project, in early July, SUGECO also carried out a significant seed distribution in the wards of Mtwara District Council and Nanyamba Council.

Over one ton of green gram seeds was provided to farmers to ensure there were enough high-quality seeds for the current and next farming seasons. 

In addition to seeds, SUGECO and the project provided fertilizer and pesticides to horticultural farmers in the Mbawala ward. The farmers also received basic training on the proper use of manure to promote plant growth and achieve maximum yields. This training is crucial as it helps the farmers to use resources effectively to increase productivity.

By distributing seeds and providing necessary farming inputs and training, UNDP and SUGECO are playing a vital role in supporting the flood-affected communities in Mtwara. This initiative not only helps in the immediate recovery but also builds long-term resilience for the farmers, ensuring a better future for them and their families.