In a landmark event for Tanzania’s agricultural sector, President Samia Suluhu has officially inaugurated the country’s largest irrigation dam at the Mtibwa Sugar plantation in Morogoro. This monumental project is set to play a critical role in alleviating Tanzania’s sugar shortages by significantly boosting local production capacity.
The newly opened dam, which covers an area of 640 hectares and can hold up to 25 million liters of water, is a testament to the government’s commitment to enhancing the agricultural infrastructure.
It stands as the largest irrigation facility in East Africa, paving the way for substantial growth in sugarcane cultivation. With the expansion of Mtibwa Sugar’s plantations by 2,400 hectares, the company aims to produce an additional 250,000 tons of sugarcane annually. This increase in raw material supply is expected to result in an annual sugar production of 25,000 tons by 2025.
This development is a critical component of Tanzania’s broader strategy to achieve self-sufficiency in sugar production. By investing in infrastructure and supporting local industries, the government seeks to reduce the country’s dependence on sugar imports, ensuring that domestic demand is met. The successful completion of this dam marks a significant milestone in this endeavor.
During a recent visit to the Mtibwa Sugar facility, Dr. Maduhu Kazi, Executive Director of the Tanzania Investment Centre, emphasized the importance of reliable electricity to support the expanded operations. He assured that the government is working closely with relevant authorities to resolve power supply issues, which are crucial for maintaining the facility’s production efficiency.
The new dam and the subsequent expansion of sugarcane plantations reflect the government’s proactive approach to addressing the sugar deficit in Tanzania.
Under President Samia Suluhu’s leadership, these initiatives demonstrate a strong commitment to fostering economic growth, supporting local industries, and enhancing food security.
As the country moves towards its target of producing 100,000 tons of sugar annually by 2025, the inauguration of this dam signifies a vital step in securing a stable and prosperous future for Tanzania’s sugar industry.
