Summary
This initiative aligns with Tanzania’s push to adopt cloud-connected technologies to enhance production and productivity in a sector that significantly contributes to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
DODOMA: THE government has established a major national agricultural laboratory in Dodoma capital city, underscoring Tanzania’s renewed commitment to transforming its agricultural sector.
The state-of-the-art facility, which will operate under the Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI), consolidates various agricultural laboratories under one roof.
This initiative aligns with Tanzania’s push to adopt cloud-connected technologies to enhance production and productivity in a sector that significantly contributes to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
In an exclusive interview yesterday, TARI Director General Dr. Thomas Bwana stated that the project coincides with a specialized capacity-building program for the nation’s agricultural experts, particularly the youth.
“Currently, at least 192 local agricultural experts are pursuing PhD and Master’s programs in preparation for the effective operation of the newly established laboratory,” he explained.
With a substantial number of experienced agricultural professionals across the country, Dr. Bwana expressed high optimism that the sector is steadily progressing toward a successful future.
He revealed further plans to modernize the sector, noting that the state-owned seed research institute is working to install a comprehensive Bioscience Centre in Dakawa, Morogoro region.
According to him, the planned facility will serve as a key training ground for young agricultural scientists in the latest technologies emerging in the field.
Dr. Bwana expressed that the world is currently experiencing rapid innovations and widespread adoption of modern technologies in agriculture, a trend that is encouraging Tanzania to elevate its technological capabilities in the sector to a molecular level.
“The establishment of these two laboratories will significantly enhance technological innovation and application in agriculture nationwide,”
“This includes advancements in soil management, seed research and innovation, planting methodologies, agronomic practices, harvesting, processing, and marketing,” Dr. Bwana added.
He insisted that TARI will continue working in sync with the parent ministry and like-minded institutions to transform the sector by developing and introducing practical technologies that boost production and productivity.
Tanzania’s agricultural sector is projected to maintain strong, positive growth into 2026, with agricultural GDP expected to reach approximately 12.9trn/-.
Although agriculture’s share of GDP has seen a slight gradual decline due to economic diversification, currently around 25–26 percent, it remains the backbone of the economy, driving growth alongside mining and services.
Tanzania is modernizing its agricultural sector, which employs over 80 percent of the population, by integrating digital tools, drones for surveillance, and IoT-enabled sensors in some areas.
Key advancements include mobile-based extension services such as M-Kilimo, GIS-based land planning, and climate-smart, drought-resistant crops. However, challenges such as high costs and limited digital literacy continue to hinder widespread adoption.
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