Tanzanian coffee production goes green

Monday 23 September 2024

The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries of Japan are coming together to support sustainable coffee production in Tanzania. This collaboration aims to boost the livelihoods of small-scale coffee producers in the region and foster more resilient and sustainable local food systems.

As part of the Enhanced Linkages between private sector and small-scale producers (ELPS) initiative, this pilot project marks the beginning of a new era of support for small-scale producers in developing countries. The primary objective of the ELPS initiative is to enhance agricultural productivity, increase incomes, and improve the livelihoods of small-scale producers with the assistance of private companies.

Gérardine Mukeshimana, Vice-President of IFAD, emphasised the pivotal role of the private sector in driving investments and promoting innovation in agri-food systems. She highlighted the significance of the project in Tanzania, stating, “We are jointly enhancing the productivity of small-scale coffee producers in Tanzania to improve their livelihoods by increasing access to international markets.”

With a commitment to the cause, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries of Japan (MAFF) is set to invest $2 million (£1.5 million) in the implementation of ELPS. This financial support underscores the importance of sustainable agriculture and the positive impact it can have on communities in developing countries.

The collaboration between IFAD, MAFF, and leading Japanese companies signifies a step towards a more sustainable and equitable future for small-scale producers in Tanzania. By bridging the gap between private sector investments and local farming communities, this initiative aims to create a more robust and inclusive agricultural sector in the region.

Join our growing community to stay updated on this exciting development and learn more about our efforts to promote sustainable agriculture and support small-scale producers around the world.