Kagera Region Embarks on Transformative Initiative to Transform Coffee Farming

Strategic Insights -

The Kagera Region in Tanzania has taken a bold step to transform its coffee farming sector by registering coffee farms using GPS coordinates in line with the European Union Deforestation Regulations (EUDR). The move, aimed at ensuring the region's coffee meets the EU's stringent deforestation-free standards, is expected to boost the sector's growth and productivity. The initiative, launched by Regional Commissioner Fatma Mwassa, targets approximately 250,000 farmers engaged in Robusta coffee farming and will see them receive "Kadi Janja" cards, enabling them to secure loans from financial institutions during the pre-season.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Kagera Region is set to register coffee farms using GPS coordinates to comply with the European Union Deforestation Regulations (EUDR).
  • The initiative aims to cover approximately 250,000 farmers engaged in Robusta coffee farming, ensuring they receive "Kadi Janja" cards for loan access.
  • Kagera produces 50,000-60,000 tonnes of Robusta coffee, accounting for nearly 50% of Tanzania's total coffee production.
  • The region targets to reach 70,000 tonnes of coffee production over the next five years.
  • The initiative also focuses on involving youth in coffee production, with 300 youths allocated land in Makongora village, Muleba District, for coffee farming.
  • Plans are underway to establish 4,000-hectare block farms in Karagwe and Muleba Districts.
  • Tanzania has shown significant progress in coffee production over the past three years, with Kagera producing 78,309 tonnes in the 2020/21 season.

Statistics:

  • Kagera produces 50,000-60,000 tonnes of Robusta coffee annually, accounting for nearly 50% of Tanzania's total coffee production.
  • The target is to reach 70,000 tonnes of coffee production over the next five years.
  • Approximately 250,000 farmers engaged in Robusta coffee farming will be covered under the initiative.
  • Over the past three years, Tanzania has seen significant progress in coffee production, with Kagera producing 78,309 tonnes in the 2020/21 season.

Sources:

  • "BUKOBA, July 31 -- KAGERA Region has taken bold steps to transform agriculture..."), Daily News.