The horticultural industry is the fastest growing sub-sector, with a growth rate of 8-10% per year, encompassing the production, processing and marketing of, fruits, vegetables, seeds, spices and herbs in general. It is estimated that the sector employs 450,000 small scale farmers including women and youth. The fruit and vegetable industry employs a significant number of young people and women. The industries have potential to combat the chronic under-nutrition of children under-five prevalent in most regions in Tanzania.