Tanzania’s Agricultural Research Institute Urged to Maximize New Technology for Cashew Production

Tanzania’s Agricultural Research Institute (TARI) in Mtwara Region has been urged to make full use of newly acquired equipment and modern technologies to increase productivity and add value to the country’s cashew industry.

The call was made by Mtwara Acting Regional Commissioner and Nanyumbu District Commissioner Christopher Magala during the launch of new research equipment and infrastructure at the TARI Naliendele centre in Mtwara Mikindani Municipality.

Magala said the government’s investment was intended to strengthen agricultural research, particularly in the cashew sector, and urged the institute to ensure the equipment is used effectively so that farmers can benefit from the research being conducted.

Among the equipment launched were 20 motorcycles, two vehicles and a drone that will be used in cashew spraying activities, alongside other equipment intended to improve research operations and make it easier for researchers and extension teams to reach farmers.

TARI Director General Dr Thomas Bwana said the institute has continued to strengthen its capacity to conduct research aimed at addressing challenges affecting Tanzanians, particularly farmers.

He said agricultural research should focus on finding practical solutions to problems experienced by farmers rather than remaining within research institutions.

Meanwhile, Tanzania Cashew Board (CBT) Director General Francis Alfred stressed the need to ensure farmers receive full support and that technologies developed through research are effectively transferred from research centres to farms.

He said the ultimate goal should be to turn agricultural research and technology into higher productivity for farmers.

The investment in modern equipment is expected to strengthen TARI Naliendele’s ability to conduct research on cashews while improving the delivery of technologies and services to farmers in one of Tanzania’s key cashew-producing regions.