Tanzania set to boost avocado yields to 250,000T

TANZANIA – Tanzania’s avocado sector is set for major growth, with plans to increase annual yields significantly.

The Southern Agricultural Growth Corridor of Tanzania (SAGCOT) is making strides in enhancing the country’s avocado production.

Geoffrey Kirenga, SAGCOT’s CEO, shared these developments at the 31st Farmers’ Expo. He highlighted the successful collaboration with numerous local and international partners that has driven improvements in productivity and export capacity.

“In this pavilion, we have over 60 SAGCOT stakeholders involved in various aspects of avocado production,” Kirenga said.

“This includes 18 agro companies focused on issues such as seed production and avocado oil processing.”

SAGCOT’s efforts have not only supported small-scale farmers in expanding their operations but also connected them with reliable markets.

“We have provided farmers with essential training in agronomic practices, from planting and using improved seeds to managing pests and reducing post-harvest losses,” Kirenga explained.

The organization has also facilitated the adoption of modern farming tools and improved storage and processing facilities.

Kirenga noted that there are four prime avocado varieties, with Bacon and Hass being particularly favored by farmers. The goal is for each avocado tree to yield between 150 to 300 kg, far surpassing the average of 15 to 30 kg.

Currently, avocado is cultivated in several regions, including Njombe, Iringa, Rukwa, Katavi, Kigoma, and Morogoro, which covers 200 acres.

SAGCOT is expanding its efforts in the Ruvuma Region, where 600 hectares are being developed under their supervision.

“Avocado production continues to grow, providing farmers with valuable economic opportunities,” Kirenga said. Presently, Tanzania exports about 25,000 tonnes of avocados. The target is to reach between 200,000 and 250,000 tonnes over the next decade.

“Global demand for avocados is increasing,” Kirenga added. “While we previously focused on European markets, we are now also exporting to India and will soon enter the Chinese and South African markets.”