Dar es Salaam. Tanzania is set to receive approximately $74 million (about Sh194.8 billion at the current exchange rate) from the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) to support agricultural production and financing rural development projects.
The announcement was made by the Deputy Permanent Secretary in the ministry of Finance, Ms Amina Khamis Shaaban, following a meeting with IFAD’s new Country Director, Sakphouseth Meng, who paid a courtesy visit to the ministry.
Ms Amina said that the funds will be disbursed under the 13th financing cycle of IFAD, highlighting the government’s long-standing collaboration with the organisation in implementing various initiatives in agriculture, fisheries, and crop production.
“In addition to the introductory visit, they outlined their key objectives in three main areas: women’s empowerment, youth engagement, and nutrition,” she said, while expressing gratitude to IFAD for its continued support in Tanzania’s agricultural and fisheries projects.
On his part, Mr Meng reaffirmed IFAD’s commitment to working with Tanzania in multiple areas, particularly in agriculture and crop production.
He noted that IFAD’s projects are designed to benefit communities by focusing on fisheries, infrastructure, and farming.
“Our work revolves around people, and we strive to ensure that people remain our top priority. Our ultimate goal is to improve livelihoods and lift people out of poverty,” Mr Meng said.
He further emphasised that IFAD’s programmes are structured to empower women economically and promote their participation in decision-making processes, incorporating gender-responsive strategies.
Mr Meng added that the initiatives provide significant opportunities for youth involvement in small businesses and entrepreneurship, including dairy processing ventures.
Additionally, he highlighted IFAD’s focus on ensuring food security by promoting the production and consumption of nutritious food, pledging to continue working towards these objectives to support Tanzania’s development.
