Barley farmers get push to improve yields

By Guardian Reporter , The Guardian
Published at 10:33 AM Aug 18 2025
Barley farm
Photo: File
Barley farm

Barley farmers in Monduli Juu, Arusha region are expected to benefit from practical training and expert guidance to increase yields and improve the quality of the crop.

Speaking during barley farmers day, Muhsin Kassim, the Monduli District Executive Director, outlined the government’s efforts to improve productivity, access to inputs, and expansion of markets for barley and other key crops.

 “Farmers are the backbone of our nation. Today we celebrate their work and reaffirm our commitment to supporting them through research, improved extension services, and access to profitable markets,” he said.

The occasion brought together 200 farmers, community leaders, and agricultural stakeholders to discuss solutions for ensuring the sustainable growth of barley production.

The annual event also serves as a platform to recognise and honour the contributions of hardworking farmers in supplying barley across the country. It further highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting agriculture as a pillar of economic growth, particularly in regions like Arusha where barley farming provides income and jobs for thousands of households.

TBL, one of the largest buyers of locally grown barley, also attended the celebration and expressed gratitude to farmers who supply this essential crop. 

The company emphasised its role in empowering farmers with unique skills to improve their harvests. Barley is a key raw material in TBL’s brewing operations, and for many years, the company has supported smallholder farmers through secure purchase contracts and training on best farming practices.

On 15 August 2025 in Monduli Juu, Arusha, Tanzania Breweries Plc (TBL), a key participant in Tanzania’s agricultural value chain, took strong steps to strengthen barley farming by meeting local farmers and providing them with hands-on training and professional advice aimed at boosting production.

Neema Temba, the brewery’s Director of Legal and Corporate Affairs, stressed the company’s continued commitment to sourcing locally and empowering Tanzanians through inclusive economic participation. 

“Events like this remind us of the crucial role of farmers not only in food security but also in sustaining industries such as ours. We are committed to strengthening partnerships with farmers and supporting sustainable agriculture that benefits everyone in the value chain,” she said.

The company reaffirmed its identity as a sustainable business committed to inspiring and enabling its customers to help build a Better World, emphasising that this mission can only be achieved through collaboration, no matter the distance.

 The event also featured a demonstration farm and interactive knowledge-sharing sessions. It served as a forum to discuss challenges facing the barley ecosystem, including climate change, post-harvest losses, and access to quality inputs, while jointly seeking solutions for the future.

Barley Farmers’ Day concluded with a joint call from all stakeholders to strengthen collaboration between the private sector, farmers, and government institutions to enhance productivity, sustainability, and market access in the barley value chain.

Barley farming in Tanzania is relatively small compared to staple crops like maize, rice, or cassava, but it has become increasingly important due to demand from the brewing industry and other beverage producers.