The Cereals and Other Produce Regulatory Authority (COPRA) is investigating the challenges in Tanzania's avocado farming sector. This initiative aims to address issues and enhance income for farmers and the nation. COPRA's Director General, Irene Mlola, announced this during a meeting with Njombe Regional Commissioner, Anthony Mtaka.
The task force, comprising experts from COPRA, the Ministry of Agriculture, the Tanzania Plant Health and Pesticides Authority (TPHPA), and the Avocado Smallholder Farmers Association (ASTA), is evaluating the challenges in the avocado trade across all producing districts. "This task force is assessing the challenges in the avocado trade across all producing districts to ensure that farmers benefit fully, grow their economies, and increase their earnings," said Mlola.
Mlola urged regional governments and farmers to cooperate with the task force and follow guidance from agricultural extension officers. COPRA is committed to ensuring farmers benefit from its presence by supervising produce sales through warehouse receipt systems and digital auctions. Digital auctions aim to secure fair prices, accurate measurements, and protect against dishonest traders.
COPRA has established its main Southern Highlands Zone office at the MATI Uyole campus in Mbeya to serve multiple regions, with a branch office planned for Njombe. Commissioner Anthony Mtaka noted the region's progress in avocado farming and pledged collaboration with COPRA. "The Njombe region will continue to support COPRA to ensure that farmers of various crops benefit from the authority's presence," he stated.
Tanzania's avocado industry is recognized as a key export sector, with potential markets in the European Union and the Middle East. The sector's future appears promising, given the increasing global demand and potential for production scaling.
Source: IPP Media
