cases from tanzania - Sustainet

4 Agricultural policy in Kenya and Tanzania
Current policies “Local government authorities have a critical role in the successful implementation
of the Agricultural Sector Development Strategy, because they will undertake
or implement all development initiatives intended to improve the rural livelihoods” (TASDS,
ch. 4.1.3).
“Government will also legally empower local government authorities to enforce regulations
and standards on behalf of the mandated institutions, possibly through the delegation of
legal powers” (TASDS, ch. 4.1.3).
Sustainable agriculture solutions Almost all sustainable agriculture projects involve the
village government. They aim to create ownership within the village government and receive
the support of the village leaders. At the same time, the village leaders gain knowledge by
attending trainings or seminars.
Policy changes needed Decentralization of power to lower levels of government would
make government services more responsive to local needs. Local leaders need training so
they are able to do their jobs better.
conclusion
If Kenya and Tanzania are to maximize their agricultural exports, their farm products must
be competitive. Competitiveness is affected by various factors in production, processing
and marketing. At production stage, competitiveness is a function of productivity: a higher
volume and lower production costs allow for more efficient and effective supply of markets.
Maintaining product quality standards is vital, as are information on market trends and
traits, and cost-effective processing and packaging. These in turn require effective domestic
market infrastructure and institutions, including low taxes and duties to keep transaction
costs down.
Despite their negative impacts, the policy reforms have created a more favourable environment
for private investment, and are expected to promote sustainable agricultural growth in
the long run – if adequate government support is forthcoming.
Market access and price incentives can be improved by improving infrastructure and institutions
that directly support small-scale farmers. Reducing tariffs and taxes in agriculture
would reduce the cost of production and marketing, so improving competitiveness and
smallholders’ incomes.
Successful development requires considerable political will and sacrifice. No single strategy
or policy on its own can get agriculture to grow on a sustained basis, reducing or eradicating
poverty and insecurity once and for all. There is no magic bullet. Long-term investment in
agriculture is necessary, along with investment in other areas such as health and education.
Choices must be based on ethical values, including the empowerment of producers, good
governance and stewardship of common resources for the common good. A strong public
constituency is necessary to ensure decision makers have the will to make policies that fight
hunger and promote a more equitable distribution of income.
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