AVOCADO farmers in Njombe Town Council have expressed concerns about unreliable electricity, which hampers their ability to pump water from low-lying areas during the dry season.

Speaking during a working visit by Njombe Regional Commissioner Anthony Mtaka, the farmers highlighted the critical need for electricity to sustain their agricultural activities. The visit focused on exploring opportunities to enhance the production of high-quality seeds in the region.

Steven Mlimbila, one of the farmers, said significant investments have been made in avocado farms in areas like Kifanya, but the lack of electricity remains a major obstacle.

“We have extensive farms under cultivation, but water access is our biggest challenge. While roads are already in place, we urgently need electricity to ensure reliable water supply,” Mlimbila said.

He explained that although Njombe produces modern, high-quality seedlings sought internationally, some Tanzanians still import avocado seeds, undermining efforts to strengthen the local agricultural sector.

Another farmer, Eligius Wella, called on Tanesco to extend electricity to farming areas, enabling investors to maximise productivity.

Regional Commissioner Mtaka emphasised that Njombe has invested heavily in superior seedlings and crop seeds, making it unnecessary to import from abroad.

“There’s a booming seedling business in Njombe. Without vigilance, it could become a cyclical trade where someone buys seedlings in Tanzania, exports them to neighbouring countries like Kenya or Uganda, and then re-imports them back to Tanzania,” Mtaka cautioned.

He acknowledged the farmers’ concerns about electricity shortages and pledged to address the issue.

Regional agriculture officer Wilson Joel revealed that Njombe produces approximately 1.5 million seedlings per season, highlighting the region's significant potential.

Regional trade officer Lusungu Mbede stressed the importance of maintaining high standards in both seedlings and avocado production to secure global market acceptance.

Countries such as Burundi and Congo are already purchasing avocado seedlings from Njombe due to their exceptional quality. Tanzanians are urged to support local initiatives and cease importing seedlings, thereby boosting the domestic agricultural sector.