THE Southern Agricultural Growth Corridor of Tanzania (SAGCOT) has described Ruvuma as a region with fertile land suitable for round potato farming that can transform the lives of residents.

Geoffrey Kirenga, Managing Director of SAGCOT, said here yesterday that this potential has been proven scientifically through soil tests conducted in various parts of Songea, Namtumbo and Madaba districts. This was followed by demonstration farming that pleasantly surprised many.

"As SAGCOT, we are committed to ensuring that round potato farming is successful and sustainable to bring about positive outcomes that change the lives of farmers," he said.

Research conducted by SAGCOT in Songea District from 2020 to 2024 for instance showed promising results in round potato production, whereby one acre yielded potatoes worth over 10m/-, he said.

Mayor of Songea Municipality Michael Mbano said it was encouraging to learn that one acre of round potato farm could yield up to 200 bags.

"I now believe in the saying that there are many job opportunities in agriculture. I thank SAGCOT and its partners for opening our eyes and showing us hidden opportunities," he said.

SAGCOT has been promoting commercial agriculture development by connecting small and medium-sized farmers with training opportunities and linking them to financial institutions and reliable markets for their produce.