A total of 734 sugarcane farmers from 17 Agricultural Marketing Cooperative Societies (AMCOS) in the Kilombero Valley have completed a comprehensive training program under the Productivity Education Initiative, implemented by the Kilombero Community Charitable Trust (KCCT) in collaboration with Kilombero Sugar Company Limited (KSCL).

The training aimed to improve farmers’ livelihoods through hands-on learning, covering five key modules including modern farming techniques, financial management, entrepreneurship, and environmental conservation. After the program, each participant received a certificate acknowledging their dedication and progress toward adopting sustainable farming practices.

Speaking during the graduation ceremony, the Guest of Honour, Pilly Kitwana, representing the Director of Ifakara Town Council, commended KCCT and Kilombero Sugar for empowering local farmers.

“This training goes beyond knowledge—it lays a strong foundation for real transformation in the lives of our people. The government remains committed to working with all partners to continue these vital efforts for the development of the Kilombero community,” she stated.

Guy Williams, Managing Director of Kilombero Sugar and chief sponsor of the initiative, acknowledged the longstanding role of KCCT in community development.

“KCCT has been at the forefront for over 25 years, and Kilombero Sugar continues to be a key partner in these efforts. I congratulate all the farmers who completed this training and encourage them to apply what they’ve learned to improve their farms and overall livelihoods.”

KCCT Board Chairperson Derick Stanley emphasized the growing demand for agricultural education, particularly with the upcoming K4 expansion project, which presents significant opportunities for farmers.

“Through the K4 project, farmers have a unique chance to use this knowledge to benefit from the rising demand for sugarcane. We call on other stakeholders to join us in empowering Kilombero’s farming community,” he said.

Pierre Redinger, Director of Cane Development at Kilombero Sugar, underscored the importance of practical knowledge in driving real, lasting change in the agricultural sector.

“We’ve seen strong enthusiasm and willingness to learn from the farmers. Now we expect to witness increased productivity and deeper transformation in sugarcane farming,” he noted.

On her part, Willa Haonga, Acting Manager of KCCT, explained that the training was conducted in collaboration with various partners who provided expertise on environmental awareness, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship. She highlighted that the five modules were carefully structured to ensure every farmer received thorough and practical education.

The trained farmers expressed their gratitude and called for the continuation of the program. They requested the establishment of demonstration farms and access to more learning tools to enhance their practical understanding and further boost sugarcane production in the region.