Tanzania reaches food self-sufficiency milestone as AfDB President Adesina urges investment in Africa

Tanzania has achieved an extraordinary 128% food self-sufficiency, setting a benchmark for food security across Africa.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan announced the milestone on October 31 at the World Food Prize Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue in Iowa, during a high-level session with African Development Bank (AfDB) President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina.

With Tanzania now exporting surplus produce to neighboring countries, President Suluhu Hassan highlighted her administration’s dedication to increasing quality, accessibility, and affordability of food, as well as minimizing post-harvest losses.

AfDB President Adesina commended President Suluhu Hassan’s leadership in fostering food security and noted a rising commitment across Africa to agriculture and food production, fueled by the 2023 Dakar 2 Food Summit. “If you are not investing in Africa, what are you doing?” he emphasized, underscoring Africa’s potential as a global food source with 65% of the world’s remaining arable land.

Tanzania’s success extends beyond agriculture; the country has emerged as one of Africa’s few processors and exporters of cashew nuts, which are usually processed abroad. The AfDB has supported Tanzania’s initiatives, including a youth employment program that offers young farmers ten acres each and comprehensive training in farming techniques. Over 11,000 youth have benefited so far, with the latest harvest underway.

Also joining the session was President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone, who discussed his country’s agricultural program, Feed Salone. “We have reduced rice imports by 20 million tons,” he noted, demonstrating his administration’s focus on building local food systems and creating export capacity.

The dialogue in Iowa showcased the AfDB’s commitment to reshaping global perceptions of Africa and encouraging investment in essential sectors. “This is why we bring African leaders here so you can hear from them directly,” Adesina said, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions to global hunger.