Africa-Press – Tanzania. PRIME Minister Kassim Majaliwa has directed the Ministry of Agriculture to collaborate with public institutions and private sector stakeholders to accelerate the adoption of modern irrigation technologies across the country.
The premier issued the directive at the 2025 Nane Nane Agricultural Exhibition in Dodoma on Sunday when he visited the National Irrigation Commission (NIRC) display area, including its irrigation technology demonstration village, to inspect various systems and evaluate government investments in the sector.
He commended the progress made in irrigation but stressed the need for wider access through inter-sectoral partnerships.
“Extensive efforts have been made in irrigation. Now the Ministry, together with the National Irrigation Commission, must involve other sectors to expand irrigation services nationwide using modern technologies,” he said.
The Prime Minister also underscored the role of small-scale irrigation in nonagricultural sectors such as Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, particularly for maintaining natural grass on sports fields.
“The Dodoma Region is very dry and if we get this irrigation equipment, it will open doors,” he said.
Mr Majaliwa urged Permanent Secretaries, the Tanzania Prisons Service, the National Service (JKT) and private agricultural investors to be equipped with modern irrigation systems to secure the country’s food supply.
“We should also consider supporting private large-scale farmers, including those in Iringa, to boost productivity,” he added.
The Premier praised NIRC Director General Raymond Mndolwa for showcasing advanced irrigation technologies at the exhibition, saying they would not only improve agriculture but also support other sectors such as sports field maintenance.
On his part, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Dr Gerald Mweli, said the ministry is working with Dodoma Regional Administration to engage youths in productive agricultural ventures.
NIRC Director General Mr Mndolwa assured continued public education on irrigation technology beyond the exhibition.
“This demonstration village and other irrigation facilities will remain at the Nanenane grounds in Nzuguni. The Commission will continue educating farmers on the available services and government investments in irrigation,” he said.
Providing technical insights, Dodoma Regional Irrigation Engineer Oswald Urasa briefed the Prime Minister on the Centre Pivot system, which can irrigate five hectares (12.5 acres) in just 24 hours.
He added that the system integrates soil moisture sensors, fertiliser injectors and weather prediction tools, significantly improving efficiency and yields.
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