TANZANIA – Morogoro Region in Tanzania has rapidly ascended as a pivotal contributor to the nation’s spice industry, with a reported production of 2000 tons of cloves valued at TSH 36 billion (USD 14.01 million) last year.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting, Regional Administrative Secretary, Musa Ally Musa, highlighted the region’s burgeoning success, stating, “Half of the total tons of cloves produced in Zanzibar were produced in Morogoro District Council alone.”
Acknowledging Morogoro’s agricultural potential, Musa emphasized, “Our region is gifted with climatic conditions and fertile soil that are ideal for the production of spices.”
This revelation underscores the region’s commitment to meet world-class standards in spice production.
Tanzania has been fervently striving to establish itself as a major global producer of various spices, including cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, lemongrass, and pepper.
The recent inclusion of Tanga Region on the list of prospective clove producers underscores the nation’s strategic expansion efforts.
Clove cultivation, predominantly thriving in hilly areas, has found a promising niche in regions like Morogoro and Tanga, resembling the climatic conditions of Zanzibar.
The Southern Agricultural Growth Corridor of Tanzania (Sagcot) has played a pivotal role in promoting clove cultivation on the mainland, facilitating coordination and mobilization of agri-finance among private sector partners invested in the spice industry.
John Banga, the SAGCOT Manager for Kilombero Cluster, expressed optimism about the transformative impact of cloves on farmers’ livelihoods and the regional economy.
Banga, in a conversation with reporters, highlighted collaborative efforts between the Morogoro Regional Commissioner’s office and SAGCOT in imparting essential skills for professional clove cultivation.
A significant initiative included a study tour to Zanzibar, where 50 farmers immersed themselves in the intricacies of clove farming, further solidifying Morogoro’s position as a burgeoning hub for spice production.
The government’s proactive role in disseminating vital market information, extension services, and farm inputs underscores a dedicated effort to bolster production.
Fertile grounds for clove cultivation have been identified in districts like Gairo, Mvomero, and Kilombero, capitalizing on favorable climatic conditions.
Partnerships with esteemed organizations like IUCN, AWF, WWF, and other development partners have facilitated active collaboration with farmers to enhance clove production.
As Morogoro emerges as a key player in Tanzania’s spice industry, it sets its sights on global recognition, fueled by ambition and agricultural ingenuity.
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