IN a display of international collaboration and agricultural innovation, Ambassador Tone Tinnes recently visited Raha Farm in Dumila Juu, Kilosa District, Morogoro Region to witness firsthand the transformative agricultural practices reshaping the local community. This visit, which highlighted the thriving tomato farming sector nurtured by Raha Farm's introduction of high-quality seedlings, was part of a broader initiative to strengthen ties between Norway and the Southern Agricultural Growth Corridor of Tanzania (SAGCOT).

The picturesque setting of Dumila Juu served as the perfect backdrop for this diplomatic engagement, where Ambassador Tinnes, alongside vital regional leaders and agricultural experts, delved into discussions on advancing Morogoro's agricultural potential. With Raha Farm at the forefront, this event underscored the critical role of innovative agrarian techniques and international partnerships in fostering sustainable development and economic growth in Tanzania.

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the verdant highlands in Dumila Juu, Kilosa District Council, Morogoro, lies a close-knit community deeply entrenched in the art of tomato farming—a fundamental pillar of its economic and culinary landscape. Nevertheless, a transformative breakthrough emerged with the introduction of top-tier tomato seedlings by Raha Farm. This visionary initiative has revolutionised farming practices in the region and ignited a wave of optimism and prosperity among its inhabitants. 

Before Raha Farm's intervention, farmers in Dumila Juu relied heavily on traditional seeds directly sown into the fields. While steeped in tradition, this method often resulted in low germination rates and poor seedling vigor, leading to suboptimal yields. The introduction of Raha Farm's scientifically bred and nurtured seedlings solved these age-old problems. The farm's founder, Ms. Raha Alyce, a visionary young entrepreneur, recognised the untapped potential of improving seed quality and its direct impact on productivity and sustainability.  

Raha Farm did not merely introduce superior seedlings; it brought a holistic change to farming practices in Dumila. Alongside the seedlings, the farm introduced modern agricultural techniques, including drip irrigation, crop rotation, and integrated pest management. These practices were complemented by regular training sessions for the farmers, empowering them with the knowledge to optimise their crop production sustainably. 

The farm’s agricultural prowess of Raha Farm in Dumila Juu, Kilosa District Council, Morogoro, was on full display during a visit by Her Excellency Ambassador Tone Tinnes on April 23, 2024. Accompanied by her diplomatic staff and joined by Dr Ally Musa Ally and SAGCOT CEO Godfrey Kirenga with their respective teams, the group engaged deeply with the farm’s extensive operations.

Raha Farm has established itself as a pioneering force in the agricultural sector, particularly noted for its innovative production of vegetable seedlings. These high-quality seedlings were historically a rarity in the local market, predominantly available only through imports. Raha Farm, under the leadership of Raha Aloyce, is dedicated to providing high-quality vegetable seedlings across Tanzania. With ambitious plans to expand her reach, Raha is committed to improving the agricultural landscape by ensuring farmers have access to quality vegetable seedlings, enhancing crop yields and sustainability. 

Ambassador Tinnes expressed satisfaction with the progress in Tanzania's agricultural sector and praised the collaboration between Norway and the Southern Agricultural Growth Corridor of Tanzania (SAGCOT).

"We are so happy to travel with SAGCOT. It's so good to meet the people of Tanzania, like Raha, who are showing us the potential of agriculture in Tanzania," and the way forward to expansion, and even the export markets, remarked Ambassador Tinnes. The Southern Agricultural Growth Corridor of Tanzania (SAGCOT) is transforming into The Agricultural Growth Corridor of Tanzania (AGOT) following a directive from President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

 This change is part of a broader strategy to expand the initiative's reach and impact beyond its original geographical scope, encompassing more diverse agricultural zones and addressing wider issues within Tanzania's agricultural sector.

Dr Ally Musa, Morogoro regional administrative secretary, expressed profound gratitude following Her Excellency Ambassador Tone Tinnes' visit to Morogoro. He articulated an exceptionally optimistic vision for the future of agriculture in the region, particularly highlighting the vital role of young entrepreneurs like Raha Aloyce in transforming the agricultural landscape.

During his remarks, Dr. Ally praised the innovative efforts of young agriculture leaders steering agricultural advancements and sustainability in Morogoro. "We are immensely proud of what young innovators like Raha are achieving here," he said. "Their drive and dedication are not only revitalising our agricultural practices but are also laying the groundwork for a sustainable and prosperous future."

Dr Ally heartfelt encouraged Raha and her peers to continue their impactful work. He reassured them of the government's unwavering support, emphasising the commitment to facilitating an enabling environment that nurtures their ventures. "The government is fully committed to supporting our young agriculturists," he explained.

Further broadening his call to action, Dr Ally encouraged more young people to venture into agriculture, stressing the sector's growth potential and critical role in the nation’s development. "I urge more of our youth to step forward and take up the mantle in agriculture. This sector is brimming with opportunities, from technological innovation to export potential. Morogoro’s agriculture’s future depends on our young people’s fresh ideas and energies, and we are here to support them every step of the way."

SAGCOT CEO Godfrey Kirenga praised the farm's comprehensive approach to agriculture, emphasising its significant impact beyond just providing seedlings. According to Kirenga, Raha Farm in the area has become a crucial part of the local community, actively supporting and empowering women, providing essential training and extension services to farmers, and even extending its support to a nearby orphanage.

"Raha Farm is a prime example of how agricultural enterprises can effectively contribute to socio-economic development," Kirenga stated. "Apart from their robust seedling production, they are deeply invested in the community, especially in empowering local women through training and job creation."

"I am deeply honoured by Her Excellency Ambassador Tone Tinnes's visit and truly grateful for the recognition," said Raha Aloyce. The collaboration with SAGCOT has been instrumental in fueling our growth and has provided a tremendous platform to showcase the potential of Tanzanian agriculture. I appreciate their continued support and partnership," said Raha.

On April 22, 2024, key stakeholders, including Morogoro regional officials, the Norwegian envoy, and SAGCOT leadership, met to advance plans for transforming Morogoro into a central spice hub in Tanzania. This initiative aims to capitalise on Morogoro's distinctive climatic and geographical attributes to boost the production of spices such as cloves and black pepper. Recently, SAGCOT established the SAGCOT Spice Value Chain Partnership, positioning the Morogoro region as a leader in this effort.

The discussions focused on the initiative's potential to create jobs, increase local farmers' income, and implement environmentally sustainable agricultural practices. By tapping into international markets and establishing robust supply chains, the initiative promises to spur economic growth in the region. It aims to position Tanzania as a critical player in the global spice industry. 

The meeting underscored a shared commitment among all parties to provide the necessary support and infrastructure to achieve these ambitious goals, highlighting the transformative impact this could have on Morogoro's agricultural landscape.

By Correspondent Elizabeth Shumbusho, Kilosa