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On the 24th and 25th of February, a group of 17 distinguished officials, led by the MVIWAARUSHA Coordinator, Richard Masandika, and Programs Officer, Mr. Damian Sulumo, embarked on a field trip to Tanzania to witness the transformative impact of the Flexible Voluntary Contribution (FVC) program. This visit took place in the implementation areas of the Mtandao wa Vikundi vya Wakulima na Wafugaji (MVIWAARUSHA) in the Monduli and Karatu districts.

The delegation was led by the FAO Tanzania Representative, Mrs. Tipo Nyabenyi, alongside several esteemed representatives from key international bodies. These included:

• Ambassador Mr. Lieven De La Marche, Permanent Representative of Belgium to FAO
• Ambassador Ms. Krisztina Bende, Permanent Representative of Switzerland to the United Nations Organizations in Rome
• Mr. Mats Aberg, Senior Programme Manager at Sida
• Ms. Ingrid Hordvei Dana, Counselor and Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN Agencies in Rome, including FAO, WFP, and IFAD
• Ms. Kristin Dypedokk, Senior Advisor at Norad
• Ms. Yngvild Våge Steihaug, Senior Advisor at the Norwegian Ministry of Agriculture and Food

The purpose of the trip was to assess the progress of the FAO-supported Forest and Farm Facility (FFF) projects and the outcomes of their support in the region.

Visiting Key Beneficiary Groups and Projects

The team first paid a courtesy call to the regional offices in Arusha, Monduli, and Karatu districts, where they witnessed firsthand the positive changes brought about by the FVC-funded projects.

One of the highlights of the trip was the visit to Simba Milima Primary School, where the Forest and Farm Facility (FFF) has made a significant impact. The school has been "regreened" as part of an environmental restoration effort, and a vegetable garden has been introduced to promote sustainable agricultural practices. Furthermore, FFF has supported the digging of a borehole to provide a clean water source for the school, alongside the installation of solar panels to power the school’s activities.

In Dofa Village, the delegation visited Eden Group, a prominent beneficiary of the FFF project. This group has made impressive strides in sustainable agricultural and environmental practices. The visit underscored the positive effects of the FVC funding on rural communities and their ability to thrive through sustainable farming practices.

Additionally, the group visited Namelok Naisho, a Maasai women’s group engaged in beekeeping and environmental conservation activities. Through their work, they have become key beneficiaries of the FFF project, showcasing how the project has empowered women in the region to engage in both income-generating and environmental sustainability activities. Their work in beekeeping has contributed not only to local economic growth but also to preserving the environment through conservation efforts.

Strengthening Partnerships and Ensuring Sustainability

The field trip provided the FAO team and donor representatives an opportunity to directly engage with local communities and stakeholders, which allowed for a deeper understanding of how the FFF projects have been integrated into these areas. The projects in Monduli and Karatu have demonstrated the profound impact that donor support, such as that from FVC, has had on both the environment and local communities.

The visit highlighted the importance of strengthening partnerships between international donors, local organizations, and rural communities to ensure the sustainability of these initiatives. It also provided a platform for feedback, helping to improve the ongoing projects and ensuring that the FVC funding continues to support those who need it most.

Conclusion

The Flexible Voluntary Contribution (FVC) donor’s field trip to Tanzania was an insightful and successful visit that demonstrated the tangible results of FAO’s support through the Forest and Farm Facility (FFF) project. The officials saw firsthand how sustainable agriculture, environmental conservation, and community empowerment positively shape the livelihoods of the people in Monduli and Karatu districts. By supporting such initiatives, the FAO and its partners are fostering long-term development in Tanzania, with the potential to inspire similar projects globally.

The visit affirmed the success of the FVC funding and reinforced the need for continued collaboration between international partners and local communities to tackle climate change, promote sustainable farming practices, and uplift rural populations across Africa.

Ijumaa ya tarehe 13, December 2024 ilikuwa siku kubwa kwa Mtandao wa vikundi vya wakulima na wafugaji mkoa wa Arusha, ambapo walikutana wanachama kwenye mkutano mkuu wa mwaka ili kujadili na kupanga maendeleo ya taasisi

Katika mkutano huo ulifanyika ukumbi wa New Life Hall njiro, wanachama pia wamechagua viongozi wapya watakaoongoza kwa miaka mitatu ijayo.

Katika uchaguzi huo, Mzee Anderson Sikawa amechaguliwa kuwa mwenyekiti wa MVIWAARUSHA, akisaidiwa na Veronika Mungai kama makamu mwenyekiti, Huku Gabriel Mwarabui akiwa mweka hazina.

On November 29, 2024, MVIWAARUSHA celebrated a historic milestone by launching a one-of-a-kind Farmer’s Center in Karatu Town. This momentous occasion was marked by the inauguration of a dedicated "farmer’s home," an achievement made possible through the collective efforts of farmers, partners, and the MVIWAARUSHA family, all of whom came together to celebrate the realization of a long-held dream.

The event was graced by Mr. Obadia Nyagiro, the Director of Policy and Planning from the Ministry of Agriculture, who represented the Deputy Minister, Hon. David Silinde. Mr. Nyagiro commended MVIWAARUSHA for their outstanding work, acknowledging the challenges faced during the project’s implementation. He also provided insightful recommendations that will contribute to the growth of agriculture in the region, encouraging MVIWAARUSHA to act on them.

This newly built center will serve as a vital hub for the farming community and the MVIWAARUSHA family, fulfilling their long-standing need for a one-stop center for agricultural activities. Special thanks go to Coordinator Mr. Richard Masandika, the steering committee, and the board of MVIWAARUSHA, as well as all the stakeholders, for making this achievement possible.
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AGRITERRA, in collaboration with MVIWAARUSHA, recently conducted an insightful workshop aimed at developing a sustainable strategy for the management and commercialization of the Farmers' Centres. The workshop, which brought together board members, staff, leaders, and members of MVIWAARUSHA, focused on building a robust framework that would ensure the effective operation of the centres, which are designed to foster agricultural growth and support the development of local farmers.

The Farmers' Centres, established by MVIWAARUSHA, serve as key hubs for promoting agriculture, providing farmers with access to resources, training, and market linkages. These centres are part of MVIWAARUSHA’s broader vision to enhance the livelihoods of smallholder farmers and strengthen agricultural value chains in the region. AGRITERRA’s involvement is centred around providing the necessary expertise to ensure that the centres are not only community-oriented but also commercially viable, enabling them to become self-sustaining in the long term.

The workshop, which took place at an MVIWAARUSHA facility, was facilitated by Beatrice Kimaro, a seasoned lecturer from Moshi Cooperative University with expertise in agricultural economics and cooperative management. With her extensive experience in cooperative development and strategic planning, Beatrice guided participants through a process of consultation and brainstorming, encouraging open discussions on how the Farmers' Centers can be effectively managed and strategically aligned with the needs of the farming communities they serve.

The session was structured to allow active participation from all stakeholders, including the board members, staff, and leaders of MVIWAARUSHA, as well as the farmers themselves. This inclusive approach ensured that the perspectives and suggestions of everyone involved were heard, particularly those of the farmers who are the primary beneficiaries of the services provided by the centres.

The primary goal of the workshop was to gather insights and opinions on several key aspects of the Farmers' Centres' future development, with a particular focus on their sustainability and commercial viability. Some of the key areas discussed included:

1. Business Model Development: Identifying ways to make the centres commercially viable, including exploring partnerships, revenue streams, and service offerings that would support farmers while generating income for the centres.
2. Resource Management and Efficiency: Ensuring that the centres are well-managed, with efficient use of resources, while maintaining a focus on the community’s needs and priorities.
3. Farmer Engagement and Support: Strengthening relationships between the centres and the farming communities, including improving access to training, technical assistance, and financial services.
4. Market Linkages: Developing strategies to connect farmers to broader markets, thus enabling them to access better prices for their produce and gain exposure to new business opportunities.
5. Strategic Leadership: Identifying the leadership and management structures needed for the centres to operate successfully, ensuring effective decision-making and long-term growth.

As a key partner, AGRITERRA has played a critical role in helping MVIWAARUSHA refine the strategy for the Farmers' Centres. AGRITERRA, with its deep expertise in agricultural development, provides both technical and strategic support to ensure that MVIWAARUSHA can operate these centres in a commercially sustainable way. Their involvement in the workshop highlighted their commitment to building the capacity of local organizations like MVIWAARUSHA to run successful and financially sustainable agricultural enterprises.

Through such collaborations, AGRITERRA aims to help enhance the agricultural sector by improving the commercial orientation of farmer organizations and strengthening their ability to meet the demands of modern agriculture. Their input in the workshop was invaluable in shaping the overall strategy for the centres and ensuring that they can continue to provide long-term benefits to farmers.

The workshop marked a significant milestone in the development of the Farmers' Centres, with valuable contributions from all parties involved. The discussions and outcomes of the session will guide the ongoing efforts to ensure that these centres are not only hubs for agricultural development but also sustainable, commercially viable entities that can serve the needs of farmers in the long run.

As MVIWAARUSHA and AGRITERRA continue to work together, the future of the Farmers' Centers looks promising, with a strategic focus on commercial growth and enhanced support for farmers. The workshop has set the stage for the next steps in making the centres a central part of the agricultural development landscape, both locally and beyond.

MVIWAARUSHA recently had the privilege of hosting a delegation of 25 students from Germany, who travelled to Tanzania to learn about agrifood systems linkages between Africa and Europe. The visit was organized and coordinated by the Andreas Hermes Academy (AHA), with support from Programs Officer Ms. Marieke Behrens. The students’ visit aimed to deepen their understanding of sustainable agricultural practices, farming techniques, and the shared challenges and opportunities within the agrifood systems of both continents.

During their time at MVIWAARUSHA, the German delegation had the opportunity to engage with local farmers, gaining first-hand experience of how sustainable agricultural practices are being implemented in the region. One of the key highlights of the visit was meeting Joel Kaduma, a master trainer and beneficiary of the B/U/S training program supported by AHA. Joel, who is based in Mto wa Mbu in Monduli District, shared his insights on the practical applications of the training he received through AHA, demonstrating the tangible benefits of these programs to local farmers. His work has been instrumental in helping improve farming methods and outcomes for numerous smallholder farmers in the area.

The students also had the chance to ask questions and discuss the various farming techniques being used in the area, such as agroecology, sustainable irrigation practices, and the importance of soil health. Joel Kaduma’s experience as both a farmer and a trainer provided a valuable perspective on how knowledge transfer and capacity building can strengthen local agrifood systems and enhance food security.

The delegation’s visit continued to Karatu District, where they explored additional projects and visited farmers who had benefited from AHA’s support. The visit to Karatu highlighted the diversity of agricultural initiatives being implemented in the area, such as innovative irrigation systems and crop diversification strategies.

Two notable farmers the students met in Karatu were Florian Gitu and Editha Florian, who have been direct beneficiaries of the AHA programs. Through AHA’s support, these farmers have been able to adopt new agricultural practices that have significantly improved their yields and overall farm productivity. The delegation was able to learn about their experiences, challenges, and successes in implementing sustainable farming practices, giving them a deeper appreciation for the transformative potential of international cooperation in agriculture.

The visit was facilitated by Mr. Damian Sulumo, the Programs Officer at MVIWAARUSHA, who expertly guided the delegation through the various farm visits and activities. Mr. Sulumo’s extensive knowledge of the region’s agricultural landscape and his connections with local farmers played a crucial role in ensuring the success of the trip. His leadership provided the students with a comprehensive view of the linkages between local agricultural systems and the broader agrifood challenges and solutions in both Africa and Europe.

This visit to Tanzania provided the students from Germany with valuable insights into the challenges faced by smallholder farmers in East Africa, as well as the opportunities for collaboration and knowledge exchange between Africa and Europe in the field of agrifood systems. By learning about sustainable agricultural practices, the importance of training and capacity building, and the impact of international programs like those offered by AHA, the students were able to gain a deeper understanding of how both continents can work together to strengthen food systems and address global challenges like climate change and food insecurity.

MVIWAARUSHA, AHA, and all the local farmers involved in the visit hope that this exchange will inspire further collaborations and innovations in the agri-food sector, ultimately contributing to the sustainable development of both African and European agricultural communities.

The annual Nanenane Exhibition, a celebrated farmers' fair held every year, has once again brought together agricultural stakeholders from across the country. This year’s event, held in Arusha, has seen remarkable participation from MVIWAARUSHA, a leading organization in agroecological practices.

A Proud Presence at Nanenane

MVIWAARUSHA is excited to be part of the Nanenane Exhibition 2024, showcasing its commitment to sustainable agriculture. At the heart of their display are the agroecological technologies and products developed through eco-friendly practices. The booth features a range of innovations designed to promote soil health, water conservation, and sustainable crop production. Attendees can explore various agroecological solutions and see firsthand the benefits these technologies offer to local farmers.

Collaborating for a Greener Future

This year, MVIWAARUSHA is also expanding its reach beyond Arusha. The organization is participating in the Nanenane Exhibition in Dodoma alongside several other influential groups, including Island of Peace (IDP), TABIO, SHIWAKUTA, and more. This collaboration highlights a united effort towards advancing sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship across different regions.

Showcasing Agroecological Excellence

At the Arusha Nanenane Exhibition, MVIWAARUSHA's pavilion is a vibrant display of how agroecological practices can transform farming. The exhibit features a variety of products produced through these methods, emphasizing the effectiveness and benefits of agroecology. Visitors have the opportunity to engage with knowledgeable staff, learn about innovative farming techniques, and see practical applications of sustainable agriculture in action.

Join the Movement

MVIWAARUSHA invites all visitors to explore their pavilion and join the growing community dedicated to sustainable farming. By showcasing agroecological technologies and products, MVIWAARUSHA aims to inspire and educate farmers and stakeholders about the positive impacts of these practices on both local ecosystems and global sustainability.

As the Nanenane Exhibition continues, MVIWAARUSHA remains committed to driving forward the adoption of eco-friendly agricultural practices and fostering collaborations that enhance agricultural productivity and environmental health.

For more information about MVIWAARUSHA’s initiatives and their participation in the Nanenane Exhibition, please visit their booth or contact them directly.

In a concerted effort to boost the sunflower and legume value chain production in Tanzania, MVIWAARUSHA has embarked on the implementation of the Farmer Organizations research -led project (FORI) project. Supported by prominent entities such as the European Union (EU), Agricord, ACP, and WEEFFECT, this initiative aims to uplift agricultural practices and improve livelihoods across the region.

Central to the success of the FORI project is MVIWAARUSHA's collaboration with the Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI). This partnership leverages TARI's expertise and resources to enhance research-driven solutions that benefit local farmers and contribute to sustainable agricultural development.

Gender inclusivity stands as a pivotal component within the FORI project framework. MVIWAARUSHA prioritizes addressing gender issues, ensuring equitable participation and opportunities for all stakeholders involved. Through targeted interventions and capacity-building efforts, the project aims to empower women and promote gender equality within the agricultural sector.

The implementation strategy encompasses various stages, including training programs, knowledge-sharing sessions, and practical demonstrations aimed at equipping farmers with advanced farming techniques and market-oriented strategies. By focusing on enhancing productivity and market access for sunflower and legume farmers, MVIWAARUSHA seeks to foster economic growth and resilience within rural communities.

Furthermore, the FORI project underscores the importance of sustainable agricultural practices and environmental stewardship. By promoting responsible farming techniques and efficient resource management, MVIWAARUSHA aims to mitigate environmental impact while ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability.

As the project progresses, MVIWAARUSHA remains committed to fostering collaboration, innovation, and inclusive growth within the sunflower and legume value chains. Through continuous evaluation and adaptation of strategies, the organization strives to achieve lasting positive impacts on the livelihoods of farmers and the overall agricultural landscape in Tanzania.

In conclusion, the FORI project spearheaded by MVIWAARUSHA represents a significant milestone in enhancing sunflower and legume value chain production, supported by strong partnerships and a commitment to gender inclusivity and sustainable agricultural practices.

In a significant stride towards bolstering agricultural sustainability initiatives, MVIWAARUSHA, in collaboration with IDP (Island of Peace/ Iles de Paix) and RECODA (Research, Community and Development Association), recently welcomed a high-profile delegation from the Kingdom of Belgium. The visit, spearheaded by MVIWAARUSHA's dedicated program officer, Mr. Damian Sulumo, aimed to showcase the impactful strides in agricultural development and sustainability.

His Excellency, Peter Huyghebaert, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to Tanzania, accompanied by Fanny Heylen, the Head of Cooperation at the Belgian Embassy in Tanzania, embarked on an insightful journey to various implementation sites in Arusha. The delegation's visit underscored Belgium's commitment to fostering sustainable agricultural practices and strengthening collaborative efforts with local partners in Tanzania.

The delegation was warmly received at the MVIWAARUSHA implementation sites, where they witnessed firsthand the innovative approaches being employed to enhance agricultural productivity while promoting environmental conservation. From sustainable farming techniques to regenerative organic practices, the visit provided a comprehensive overview of the diverse initiatives aimed at transforming the agricultural landscape in the region.

During their tour, the delegation engaged in fruitful discussions with local stakeholders, including farmers, community leaders, and project coordinators. These interactions facilitated the exchange of knowledge and experiences, highlighting the importance of synergistic partnerships in driving meaningful change within the agricultural sector.

One of the focal points of the visit was the collaborative efforts between MVIWAARUSHA, IDP, and RECODA in implementing sustainable agricultural projects. The delegation had the opportunity to witness the tangible impact of these initiatives on the livelihoods of farmers and the broader community. From improved crop yields to enhanced soil health, the positive outcomes showcased the effectiveness of holistic approaches to agricultural development.

As the visit concluded, Ambassador Huyghebaert admired the dedication and innovation demonstrated by the local partners in their pursuit of agricultural sustainability. He emphasised Belgium's continued support for such initiatives and reaffirmed the importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges such as food security and climate change.

The visit of His Excellency, Peter Huyghebaert, and Fanny Heylen was a testament to the fruitful collaboration between Belgium and Tanzania in advancing sustainable agriculture. It reinforced the shared commitment to harnessing the power of innovation and partnership to build a more resilient and prosperous future for farming communities in Tanzania and beyond.

In a heartwarming display of international collaboration and environmental stewardship, the International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED) recently embarked on a visit to Tanzania, marking a significant milestone in its partnership with local organizations. The visit centred around the joint project "Nurture the Nature," aimed at empowering local communities and promoting sustainable environmental practices.

One of the key highlights of the visit was the interaction with various local groups, including the Namelok Naishoi women's group in Esilalei village, Monduli district. This encounter provided a firsthand glimpse into the lives of these women, showcasing their resilience and determination to make a positive impact on their environment. The women shared their experiences and knowledge, demonstrating a deep connection to the land and a strong desire to protect it for future generations.

Another memorable visit was to the Eden Group in Dofa village, Karatu district, where the team witnessed, the impressive work being done to conserve biodiversity and promote eco-friendly practices. The group's dedication to sustainable farming and resource management was truly inspiring, serving as a shining example of community-led conservation efforts.

Apart from engaging with local communities, the IIED team also had the opportunity to collaborate and exchange ideas with partners from the Philippines and Indonesia. This cultural exchange not only enriched the experience but also fostered a sense of global solidarity in tackling environmental challenges.

Overall, the visit of IIED and their partners was a testament to the power of collaboration and shared commitment to nurturing our planet. It served as a reminder that by working together, we can achieve remarkable progress in safeguarding our environment and building a more sustainable future for all.

In the heartlands of agricultural communities, a quiet revolution is taking place. Farmers, long the backbone of our societies, are stepping into a new realm of entrepreneurship by establishing farmer-owned sunflower oil processing machines. This innovative initiative transforms the way agricultural products are processed and empowers local farmers, fostering economic sustainability and community resilience.

The journey begins in the sun-kissed fields where farmers diligently cultivate sunflowers, tapping into nature's bountiful resources. Traditionally, these sunflower seeds would be sold to distant processing facilities, leaving farmers at the mercy of fluctuating market prices and distant middlemen. However, the landscape is evolving as farmers unite to reclaim control over their produce.

The concept of farmer-owned processing machines is simple yet profound. Instead of relying on external entities, farmers pool their resources to invest in a communal processing facility. This facility, equipped with state-of-the-art machinery, enables farmers to transform raw sunflower seeds into high-quality oil on-site. By eliminating intermediaries, farmers retain a larger share of the profits, bolstering their economic stability.

Thanks to MVIWAARUSHA under the FORI project and with the support of WEEFFECT, AGRICORD, ACP and TARI for making this vision realized for the farmers.

One of the primary benefits of farmer-owned processing machines is the empowerment of local communities. These machines serve as hubs of collaboration, bringing farmers together to share knowledge, resources, and experiences. Through collective ownership, farmers strengthen their bargaining power in the market, ensuring fair compensation for their labour. Moreover, the establishment of processing facilities creates employment opportunities within rural areas, stemming the tide of urban migration.

Furthermore, farmer-owned processing machines promote sustainability and environmental stewardship. By processing sunflower seeds locally, farmers reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation and processing. Additionally, these facilities can implement eco-friendly practices, such as utilizing renewable energy sources and minimizing waste generation. As custodians of the land, farmers recognize the importance of preserving natural resources for future generations.

The impact of farmer-owned processing machines extends beyond economic and environmental realms; it also fosters social cohesion and community development. As farmers collaborate on shared ventures, bonds of trust and solidarity are forged, strengthening the fabric of rural societies. Moreover, the establishment of processing facilities encourages knowledge exchange and skill development, empowering farmers with the tools to navigate an ever-changing agricultural landscape.

However, the journey towards farmer-owned processing machines is not without its challenges. Initial investments in machinery and infrastructure may require substantial capital, necessitating support from government agencies, NGOs, or financial institutions. Additionally, farmers must navigate regulatory frameworks and bureaucratic hurdles to ensure compliance with food safety standards and quality control measures.

Despite these obstacles, the momentum behind farmer-owned processing machines continues to grow, fueled by the collective determination of farmers to control their destinies. As more communities embrace this model, the ripple effects are felt far and wide, transforming not only agricultural practices but also societal perceptions of rural development.

In conclusion, the establishment of farmer-owned sunflower oil processing machines heralds a new era of empowerment and sustainability in agriculture. By reclaiming control over the production process, farmers secure their livelihoods, preserve the environment, and strengthen the social fabric of their communities. As we look towards the future, let us celebrate the ingenuity and resilience of farmers who are pioneering change from the ground up.