Tanzania aims to become self-reliant in edible oil and therefore it has set aside USD 4.3 million to boost cultivation of oil palm.
The east African country despite having favorable weather conditions suitable for palm oil cultivation, imports 55.5% of its total edible oil.
The money earmarked will be used to develop palm oil crops so that farmers are on the same level as growers of other cash crops. The ministry of agriculture also plans to prepare a demonstration farm in Kigoma region where farmers can learn modern methods of oil palm production.
Kigoma region accounts for more than 80% of palm oil produced in Tanzania. The soil and weather in Kigoma is suitable for palm oil crops and it has the potential to make Tanzania one of the world’s top palm oil producers and exporters.
Tanzania’s private sector has seen increase in the production of palm oil crop since 2017 through engagements with financial institutions.
Find out more about palm oil production in Africa at CMT’s 6th Africa Oil Palm & Rubber Summit, 08-09 May, 2019 in Abidjan, Cote D'Ivoire.
