Bukoba. The Chairperson of the Tanzania Fertilizer Regulatory Authority (TFRA), Dr. Anthony Diallo, has encouraged farmers in Kagera to use fertilizers on their banana and coffee crops to increase production. According to Dr. Diallo, farmers who use fertilizers can earn up to ten times more than those who do not.
Speaking to farmers in Missenyi district this week, Dr. Diallo launched the "Agriculture is Fertilizer" campaign. The campaign aims to educate farmers on the correct use of fertilizers and encourage them to register for the fertilizer subsidy system.
"This year, we are focusing on increasing production by using fertilizers on banana and coffee crops. With fertilizers, farmers can harvest more from a smaller area," said Dr. Diallo.
He urged farmers to move away from traditional farming methods and start using modern technologies, including the correct use of fertilizers, to increase their production and boost the economy.
Dr. Diallo also called on extension officers in each district to use soil testing equipment provided by the government. This will help farmers use the right type of fertilizers according to their soil.
Kagera Regional Commissioner, Fatma Mwassa, encouraged farmers to register for the fertilizer subsidy system. She shared her own experience as a rice farmer in Morogoro, where she harvested 400 sacks of rice from 12 acres, showing the benefits of using fertilizers.
In addition to launching the campaign, Fatma Mwassa announced a competition for the registration of farmers in all districts of Kagera region. The district with the highest number of registered farmers by December 2024 will be rewarded.
Hadija Kondo, a fertilizer agent in Missenyi, expressed optimism that her business will grow as more farmers are inspired to use fertilizers.
The launch event was attended by senior leaders from Kagera region, Missenyi district, fertilizer stakeholders, and farmers.