SAGCOT Initiative Drives Agricultural Transformation
TANZANIA – The Southern Agricultural Growth Corridor of Tanzania (SAGCOT) is spearheading a transformative initiative in Ruvuma region, leveraging its fertile land for round potato cultivation to uplift local communities. Geoffrey Kirenga, Managing Director of SAGCOT, highlighted the region’s agricultural promise following comprehensive soil assessments across Songea, Namtumbo, and Madaba districts, supported by successful demonstration farms.
The initiative aims to enhance livelihoods by promoting the sustainability and profitability of round potato farming. Kirenga emphasized SAGCOT’s commitment to providing farmers with the necessary resources and knowledge to thrive in commercial agriculture, thereby fostering economic growth and job creation in the region.
Research conducted in Songea District from 2020 to 2024 showcased promising results, with round potato yields exceeding expectations. Farmers reported incomes surpassing 10 million Tanzanian Shillings per acre, underscoring the economic viability of agricultural ventures in the area. Michael Mbano, Mayor of Songea Municipality, applauded the initiative’s impact on local economies, noting yields of up to 200 bags per acre as indicators of agricultural potential.
SAGCOT’s multifaceted approach includes educational programs and facilitation of access to financial and market networks, essential for sustaining agricultural productivity and profitability. The initiative not only aims to increase yields but also to strengthen the resilience of local farming communities against economic challenges.
As SAGCOT continues to support and expand round potato farming in Ruvuma region, the initiative serves as a beacon of agricultural development, demonstrating the transformative power of strategic agricultural investments in Tanzania.
