AGRICULTURE experts have been urged to play a role in providing accurate guidance to farmers on proper use of inputs in order to protect consumers from potential harm caused by improperly treated crops.

This was said here on Monday by Secretary General of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania - Northern Diocese (ELCT-ND) Zephania Moshi during a capacity building workshop for leaders of farmer and herder groups in Kilimanjaro Region.

The training is part of a project implemented by ELCT-ND and supported by Norwegian Church Aid - Tanzania (NCA-Tanzania).

Moshi emphasised that improper use of agricultural inputs such as fertilisers, pesticides and insecticides could have serious negative effects on human health and the environment.

He urged experts to ensure that farmers are properly trained on safe and sustainable use of the products.

“We have witnessed the harmful effects of improper input use, particularly in crops such as carrots, tomatoes and onions in Magarobi area in Arusha Region. My appeal to those providing agricultural inputs is to ensure they guide farmers on the correct types and quantities to use,” he said.

He further highlighted that some agricultural inputs have long-lasting residual effects while others have shorter durations. If used excessively, the substances can remain in the crops for extended periods, posing significant health risks to consumers.

“This is why it is crucial for input experts to prioritise educating farmers on how to use appropriate inputs that are safe for consumers,” he said.

Rev. Andrew Munisi, ELCT-ND and NCA Projects Coordinator, stressed the importance of the training in encouraging farmers and herders to adopt modern and productive agricultural practices, moving away from traditional methods.

“Our goal is to shift mindsets within our communities so that people embrace productive agriculture and leave behind outdated farming and herding practices,” he said.

Over the past five years, the project has achieved notable success, with many households producing sufficient food to meet their needs.

Rev. Munisi also emphasised that the training helps farmers learn how to produce high-quality crops while urging them not to sell produce contaminated with pesticides in order to safeguard consumer health.