Tanzanian avocado farmers receive payments after government orders debt settlement

TANZANIA – Avocado farmers in Tanzania’s Rungwe District have finally been paid after a prolonged delay, following government intervention that pressured a local trading company to settle outstanding debts.

Mbembati Trading Company, which owed more than 10 million Tanzanian shillings to farmers, was ordered by Mbeya Regional Commissioner Juma Homera to clear its debts within 48 hours or face legal action. The directive came after farmers raised concerns during Homera’s visit to the region.

Homera emphasized that companies must honor agreements with farmers to protect agricultural livelihoods.

“This issue cannot continue. You must pay the farmers within the stipulated time, or there will be consequences,” he said. His stern warning pushed the company to act swiftly.

Mbembati Trading Company had delayed payments due to losses incurred after discovering fungal disease in the avocados.

Erasto Mbembati, the company’s director, explained that the fruits were transported to a washing facility in Makambako, Njombe, before being sent to India. However, once cleaned, the avocados showed signs of fungal infection, making them unsuitable for export.

“We had secured the market for 40 tons of the product last year in India but when we shipped them to Njombe, we found they were spoiled, and we had to discard them, which caused big losses and delayed payments for the farmers,” Mbembati stated. The company had to compensate farmers despite the financial setback.

The farmers have expressed relief after finally receiving their payments, thanking the government for stepping in.

Yusta Patrick, one of the affected farmers, confirmed she had received her owed 1.88 million shillings. “If it were not for the Commissioner’s involvement, we might still be waiting,” she said.

Wilson Bukuku, another farmer, called for further support from the government to improve avocado quality and reduce the risk of fungal infections.

“We need access to sulfur-based fertilizers so we can protect our crops and ensure they meet market standards,” he urged.

 

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