ZANZIBAR Second Vice President, Hemed Suleiman Abdulla has highlighted that the growth in agricultural technology use in the country has brought significant changes to the agriculture and livestock sectors.

He made the remarks here at the just-ended Farmers Exhibition, at the Dole Grounds in the West “A” District, Unguja, inspecting various agricultural and livestock products showcased at the event.

He emphasised that the Farmers’ Exhibition offers a valuable opportunity for the public to learn modern farming and livestock techniques which help produce higher yields in a shorter time.

He further noted that agriculture, livestock and the environment are crucial to daily life, therefore, it is essential for farmers and herders to adopt modern technologies to stay competitive in the global market.

The Second VP reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improve infrastructure at the exhibition infrastructure to provide better services to both farmers and the public.

He encouraged citizens to visit the exhibition to learn about modern, effective farming practices.

Agriculture, Irrigation, Natural Resources and Livestock Minister Shamata Shaame Khamis reported a significant increase in business enthusiasm at the exhibition, exceeding the Ministry’s target of registering 500 entrepreneurs.

Shamata also noted that the increased interest from entrepreneurs in agriculture and livestock has led to a rise in domestic production, particularly of vegetables, reducing the need to import these products into Zanzibar.

The Minister also said the ministry plans to further expand and improve the exhibition’s infrastructure to provide businesspeople with a better platform to showcase their products effectively.

He praised the 8th phase government under President Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi for great efforts to promote agriculture as it also plays a major role in economic growth and food security and supply.

“We need to produce enough at home for ourselves, booming tourists’ hotels and reducing importing from abroad,” he said.

Participants at the exhibition hailed proper coordination, reporting significant benefits, including access to business development loans and education on modern, efficient farming and livestock techniques.