Summary
The Nane Nane celebrations date back to the 1960s, when the Government established National Farmers’ Day to recognise the invaluable contribution of farmers to Tanzania’s economy.
By Valentine Oforo | Dodoma
TANZANIA is strengthening preparations for the 33rd International Nane Nane Agricultural Exhibition after 14 countries confirmed their participation in the prestigious annual event, which is expected to bring together more than 1,000 exhibitors from Tanzania and abroad.
Drafted to take place from August 1 to 8, 2026, at the John Samuel Malecela Nane Nane Exhibition Grounds in Nzuguni, Dodoma, the exhibition is set to become one of East Africa’s largest agricultural gatherings, showcasing innovations, technologies and investment opportunities across the agriculture, livestock, fisheries and natural resources sectors.
Dodoma Regional Commissioner Ms. Rosemary Senyamule has directed officials responsible for the preparations to fast-track the completion of critical infrastructure to ensure the venue is fully ready to receive exhibitors, investors and thousands of visitors.
During an inspection tour of the exhibition grounds, Ms Senyamule stressed the importance of completing the main entrance gate and upgrading essential facilities, including reliable water and electricity supply, sanitation services and environmental cleanliness.
“Proper preparations will elevate the status of the Nane Nane Exhibition and provide farmers, livestock keepers, fishers and other stakeholders with an ideal platform to showcase technologies, innovations and achievements that contribute to economic growth and strengthen food security,” she said.
She noted that timely preparations and close collaboration among stakeholders would be vital to delivering a successful exhibition that promotes agricultural transformation while creating opportunities for knowledge exchange, business partnerships and investment.
The Ministry of Agriculture has assured the regional administration that preparations are progressing according to schedule.
Assistant Director for Extension Services, Ms. Upendo Mndeme, said the ministry was implementing all directives issued during the inspection to ensure every aspect of the exhibition is completed on time.
“We are working closely with all stakeholders to ensure all activities are completed within the required timeframe so that exhibitors and visitors find the venue fully prepared,”Ms Mndeme said.
The exhibition venue carries special national significance after President Samia Suluhu Hassan named it the John Samuel Malecela Exhibition Grounds during the climax of previous National Farmers’ Day celebrations. The honour recognises the late former Prime Minister’s immense contribution to Tanzania’s agricultural development and rural transformation.
Dr John Samuel Malecela is widely remembered for championing policies that strengthened agricultural production and improved the livelihoods of rural communities, making the naming of the grounds a lasting tribute to his legacy.
A showcase of innovation and investment
The 2026 International Nane Nane Exhibition will serve as a strategic platform for presenting modern agricultural technologies, climate-smart farming practices and value-addition innovations aimed at increasing productivity and improving food systems.
More than 500 organisations and companies are expected to showcase cutting-edge technologies and services, while participants will have opportunities to engage in business-to-business meetings, investment forums and policy dialogues with government leaders, researchers and development partners.
The week-long event will also feature workshops, live demonstrations and technical presentations covering crop production, livestock management, fisheries, mechanisation, irrigation, digital agriculture and agricultural financing.
Special thematic days focusing on youth and women in agriculture, horticulture, livestock, fisheries and agribusiness will highlight emerging opportunities for entrepreneurs and innovators seeking to transform Tanzania’s agricultural sector.
A tradition spanning six decades
The Nane Nane celebrations date back to the 1960s, when the Government established National Farmers’ Day to recognise the invaluable contribution of farmers to Tanzania’s economy.
Held annually from August 1 to 8, the exhibition has evolved into a premier national and international platform where farmers, researchers, investors, financial institutions, private companies and development partners exchange knowledge, demonstrate innovations and forge partnerships that enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability.
This year’s exhibition carries an even broader international outlook, reflecting Tanzania’s commitment to strengthening regional and global cooperation in agriculture while promoting investment, technology transfer and food security.
With delegates from 14 countries already confirming participation, organisers expect the 2026 International Nane Nane Exhibition to reinforce Dodoma’s position as a regional hub for agricultural innovation and business, while advancing Tanzania’s vision of a modern, competitive and resilient agricultural economy.
