Tanzania is stepping up efforts to strengthen its agricultural sector by reducing dependence on imported seeds and expanding domestic seed production and processing.

Agriculture Minister Daniel Chongolo has outlined plans to improve the country’s seed supply while supporting farmers with better access to quality planting materials.

The minister made the remarks during the launch of SeedCo Tanzania’s modern seed processing and storage facility in Arumeru, Arusha, on September 9, 2026.

Building Tanzania’s Seed Industry

The push to increase local seed production is aimed at strengthening Tanzania’s agricultural value chain and reducing reliance on foreign supplies.

Modern seed processing and storage facilities can help improve the availability and quality of planting materials, giving farmers more reliable access to seeds needed to increase agricultural productivity.

For Tanzania, developing a stronger domestic seed industry could also create opportunities for investment, employment and agribusiness growth.

Supporting Agricultural Growth

The government’s focus on seed production comes as Tanzania seeks to improve agricultural productivity and strengthen food security.

Access to quality seed remains an important part of modern farming, particularly as farmers seek higher yields and more commercially viable production.

Improving local seed capacity could therefore benefit farmers while supporting the wider agricultural economy, from seed production and processing to farming, distribution and marketing.

Opportunities for Agribusiness

The development of modern seed infrastructure also highlights the growing role of private-sector investment in Tanzania’s agricultural transformation.

As domestic seed production expands, opportunities could emerge for businesses involved in seed multiplication, processing, storage, distribution, farm inputs and agricultural technology.

Tanzania’s efforts to build a stronger seed industry are part of a broader drive to make agriculture more productive, competitive and capable of contributing significantly to economic growth and food security.

Image: Agriculture Minister Daniel Chongolo (four left) receives explanations from SeedCo Tanzania official during the launch of SeedCo Tanzania’s modern seed processing and storage facility held on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, in Arumeru, Arusha. PHOTO| JANETH MUSHI