MANYONI District Commissioner Dr Vicent Mashinji has warned farmers who mix crops such as cereals and nuts with sand to increase weight.

Dr Mashinji issued the warning at the launch of Tanzania Mercantile Exchange (TMX) trading model using a warehouse receipt system for the first time in the district.

Dr Mashinji explained that such practice damages the reputation of Tanzanian produce in international markets, leading to lower prices for the crop.

"During a recent auction of beans and cowpeas, we received complaints that some farmers were mixing sand to increase weight. This is not acceptable and the government will not tolerate it,” he said.

He urged farmers to focus on producing high-quality crops to maintain Tanzania's reputation abroad.

Issa Madenge, Chairperson of Cashew Nut Farmers Association in Manyoni, praised the TMX auction system which ensures fair compensation for farmers.

Aziz Msigwa, Agriculture Officer with Cashew nut Board of Tanzania, shared that the board will provide three tractors to help farmers cultivate their farms this season.

Businessman Jonathan Mruma said that the TMX system is beneficial because of transparency.

Cashew farming in Manyoni District began in 2018, and this year the district harvested 1,636 bags (128,700 kilogrammes) of cashew nuts, sold at a competitive price of   3,167/- per kilogramme.