AS food safety and security become increasingly crucial to human survival, Tanzania faces significant challenges threatening its path toward sustainable development.

Each year, more than 600,000 Tanzanians suffer from foodborne illnesses due to unsafe food practices, resulting in a tragic loss of 420,000 lives. This statistic, highlighted by Prof. Kitila Mkumbo, Tanzania’s Minister of State for Planning and Investment, underscores the critical role of food security in national progress.

Food security is not only about meeting immediate dietary needs but establishing the foundation for a nation's economic stability, health, environmental sustainability and overall resilience.

Reliable access to food supports economic productivity because a well-fed population is healthier and capable of working, which strengthens the labour force. This leads to increased productivity, supporting sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and services, which all contribute to a country’s economic growth.

Food security policies often include sustainable agricultural practices that protect natural resources, such as soil, water, and biodiversity. Sustainable agriculture supports long-term food production, reduces environmental degradation, and builds resilience against climate change impacts, which is vital for sustained national development.

At a press briefing in Dodoma, held ahead of Tanzania’s 60th Union Anniversary celebrations, Prof Mkumbo emphasized that food security is fundamental to the nation's future. 

“Food security is the first measure of national development. At the time of our union with Zanzibar, our food security was 60 percent. Today, Tanzania has achieved 124 percent, exceeding our target and maintaining reserves,” the minister stated.

Beyond food, Mkumbo stressed the importance of meeting other essential needs such as shelter and clothing, which reflect the nation’s development progress. With the 2025 goal in sight, Mkumbo expressed optimism, as Tanzania aims to raise the average life expectancy to 68 years—a significant increase from 32 years at independence and a current average of 66 years recorded in the 2022 census.

Role of food safety in health

While food security strengthens, experts stress that the journey to food safety begins long before reaching the consumer. 

Nutrition expert Pendo Yeled from Iringa Regional Referral Hospital emphasized the importance of safety along the entire food chain—from planting and harvesting to storage and consumption. 

Yeled warns of aflatoxin risks in maize—a staple food crop, urging farmers to use proper post-harvest handling to prevent contamination. “Inspect harvested maize carefully, removing any mouldy grains to avoid aflatoxins, and use protective bags to prevent early spoilage,” 

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) warns that one in ten people worldwide dies annually from consuming unsafe food, with vulnerable groups—including children, the elderly and individuals with compromised immune systems—at higher risk.

Gerad Mwamihamila, Head of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries in Iringa Municipal Council, reiterates the need for safe production practices, underscoring seed selection, land preparation, and post-harvest handling. 

Nutritionist Matrida Erick stressed that maintaining hygiene throughout food preparation, advising thorough washing, proper cooking, and correct storage methods to ensure food safety.

Fish shortage in Lake Victoria

Despite efforts to improve food safety, challenges persist, particularly in Tanzania’s fish sector, essential for food security and livelihoods. Lake Victoria’s fish stocks are dwindling, jeopardizing lakeside communities’ economic stability. 

Maneno Malima, Secretary of the Beach Management Unit at Butuja Beach, expressed concern over the drastic decline in fish populations—a 35 percent reduction confirmed by government statistics.

Local fishermen attribute the shortage to inadequate consultation and unsustainable fishing practices. Former Mwanza Regional Commissioner Amos Makalla highlighted a recent study, conducted between 2018 and 2022, that showed a significant drop in fish populations in Lake Victoria. 

In response, President Samia Suluhu Hassan recently provided fishermen with boats and cages to revive the sector, though the fish scarcity has already led to the closure of six processing factories in the Mara region.

William Gumbo, Chairman of the Lake Victoria Region Local Authorities Cooperation (LVRLAC), called for stronger lake protection measures and urged municipalities to enforce regulations and promote sustainable fishing practices. “Our resolution is to intensify lake security and ensure everyone follows the rules.”

Building a sustainable future through agriculture

While Tanzania has made impressive strides in food security, Lake Victoria fish shortage serves as a reminder that sustainability is key. 

To protect biodiversity and ensure food security, the government is advocating responsible and eco-friendly agricultural practices. Recently, the World Food Programme (WFP) in Tanzania and Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) focused on enhancing agricultural research and climate resilience. 

WFP has allocated over 150 million Tanzanian shillings to promote innovation as a driver of change in agriculture.

SUA Vice Chancellor Prof Raphael Chibunda expressed optimism about the partnership, noting that it would support research, innovation, and agricultural technology. “We will work with WFP to help academics, researchers, and farmers in ensuring food security and nutrition.” 

By prioritizing safe and sustainable practices from farm to table, Tanzania can protect public health and preserve natural resources for future generations.