Launch of the Practical Training Centre in Pemba: A New Milestone for Sustainable Agriculture
The AGRI-CONNECT Programme witnessed the official launch of the Practical Training Centre (PTC) at Kangagani in the Wete District of Pemba, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at advancing agricultural practices and empowering the farming community in Zanzibar. This milestone event was inaugurated by the Honorable Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation, Natural Resources, and Livestock of Zanzibar, in the esteemed presence of the European Union (EU). This state-of-the-art training center, established by Trias in partnership with the Tanzania Horticultural Association (TAHA) as part of the “Make It Grow” project under the EU-funded AGRI-CONNECT Programme, reflects a significant investment in the agricultural future of Pemba.
The Practical Training Centre serves as a vital resource for Pemba’s farmers, offering hands-on demonstrations and training on Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and advanced farming technologies. Through its unique training modules, the PTC is designed to support local farmers, agribusinesses, and value chain actors by sharing effective, innovative farming methods that can drive productivity, resilience, and sustainability across the region. This commitment to skill-building and practical knowledge-sharing is a central component of the “Make It Grow” project’s mission to elevate the quality and competitiveness of agricultural practices in Zanzibar.
A Collaboration for Change
The PTC is a testament to the power of collaboration. Established by Trias, a trusted organization with a long-standing commitment to sustainable development, in partnership with TAHA, a key driver of horticultural growth in Tanzania, the center embodies the collective efforts of stakeholders dedicated to transformative impact. Funded by the European Union, the AGRI-CONNECT Programme supports initiatives that address food security, livelihood development, and economic growth in East Africa, with a special focus on empowering local communities through sustainable agricultural practices. The EU’s investment in this center highlights a shared vision for economic development through targeted interventions in agriculture.
At the core of the PTC’s mission is the dissemination of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) tailored to the needs of the Pemba community. The center offers farmers practical training sessions, in which they can witness firsthand the benefits of improved technologies and practices in crop management, pest control, irrigation, and soil conservation. These advancements, supported by the latest agricultural research, enable farmers to optimize yields while minimizing environmental impact, enhancing the sustainability of their livelihoods. Additionally, the PTC facilitates access to modern tools and technologies, bridging the gap between traditional farming methods and contemporary agricultural innovation.
Impact on the Agricultural Value Chain
By equipping farmers and agricultural value chain actors with the skills and knowledge to adopt sustainable practices, the PTC is poised to boost productivity and improve food security in Pemba. The training sessions focus not only on the techniques of crop cultivation but also on the principles of market-driven agriculture, empowering farmers to tap into local and regional markets with confidence. With increased yields and improved product quality, Pemba’s farming community will have a greater ability to meet demand and generate income, thereby enhancing their economic resilience.
The establishment of the Practical Training Centre marks a significant step toward a future where agriculture is not only a source of livelihood but also a foundation for sustainable development in Zanzibar. Through ongoing training, mentorship, and support, the center is expected to catalyze positive change, fostering a more self-sufficient and resilient agricultural sector in Pemba. The PTC is part of a larger vision shared by the EU, Trias, and TAHA to promote sustainable agriculture that can withstand the challenges posed by climate change, limited resources, and market fluctuations.
Together, with a common commitment to sustainable agricultural growth, AGRI-CONNECT is building a brighter future for the farming community in Pemba. Through initiatives like the Practical Training Centre, we aim to create lasting change, empowering farmers with the tools, knowledge, and opportunities to thrive. With collaboration, dedication, and innovation, sustainable agricultural development in Zanzibar is no longer just a vision, it’s a reality in progress.