SOYMILK, a traditional Chinese drink known for its rich flavour and nutritional benefits, is gaining popularity among Tanzanians in several villages of Morogoro Region.

The production technology for soymilk, introduced by experts from China Agricultural University (CAU) in 2022, has been implemented as a pilot project in the villages of Peapea, Kitete, Makuyu and Mtego wa Simba.

Under the initiative, Chinese experts in collaboration with Morogoro regional authorities have distributed modern soybean seeds to farmers in the villages.

They also provided on-site guidance on planting and management techniques, enabling successful processing of soymilk.

The growing popularity of this protein-rich drink is a result of a bilateral cooperation project between China and Tanzania, spearheaded by Chinese agriculture scientist Prof Li Xiaoyun.

Prof Li and his team launched the ‘Small Bean and Big Nutrition’ project, which has recently seen its second harvest season, leaving farmers with smiles.

To improve nutritional structures through inter-cropping soybeans, the Chinese experts have conducted training sessions in over a thousand households across a dozen villages. The efforts aim to enhance family welfare and support children’s nutrition and education.

At a recent ceremony to honour the best soybean farmers in Mikese Ward, Prof. Li expressed his appreciation for the project’s success.

The event took place at a learning centre for poverty eradication at Mtego wa Simba Village, about 30 kilometers from Morogoro Municipality.

The centre, built by CAU serves as a hub for research and demonstrates the impact of China-Africa agriculture development and poverty reduction efforts.

Morogoro Regional Administrative Secretary Dr Mussa Ally Mussa who was the Chief guest, commended CAU for introducing soymilk in the region, saying the soymilk project will benefit as many people as possible, especially children and women.

Alphonse Mkude, a 62-year-old farmer at Mtego wa Simba Village said: “Soymilk tastes good, and I believe it is good for our health.”

Nasoro Athumani who was named Peapea Village’s best soybean farmer for 2024, said that he grew soybeans on a one-acre plot, yielding approximately 400 kilogrammes.

“Next year, I plan to expand to two acres and I have high expectations for the yields,” he said.