THE CCM-led government has unveiled bold plans to transform Njombe Region into a national centre for avocado production, positioning the region to tap into the lucrative global avocado market.

Speaking at a campaign rally at Mabehewani grounds in Makete District, CCM presidential running mate Dr. Emmanuel Nchimbi said the government will establish new avocado nursery blocks and roll out comprehensive support to local farmers as part of a five-year agricultural development strategy.

“We will build Njombe into the avocado capital of Tanzania,” Dr. Nchimbi declared. “Our farmers will no longer just grow for survival—they will grow to compete globally.”

The cornerstone of the plan is the establishment of government-supported avocado tree nurseries, which will produce high-quality seedlings for local farmers.

 These nurseries aim to boost production capacity and ensure that Njombe’s avocado output meets international standards.

Njombe’s altitude, rich soils, and favorable climate already make it one of the most promising regions for avocado cultivation in East Africa.

 The new investment will accelerate commercial farming and enable farmers to benefit from rising global demand for avocados.

“This is not just about agriculture—it’s about creating wealth for farmers, jobs for youth, and foreign exchange for the country,” Dr. Nchimbi said.

To ensure consistent production, Dr. Nchimbi said the government will invest heavily in irrigation infrastructure to make avocado farming viable year-round. 

The initiative also supports the broader goals of food security and climate-resilient agriculture.

In tandem with agricultural efforts, the CCM government plans to enhance the region’s infrastructure to facilitate the transport of produce to markets.

 Key road projects, including the Makete–Mbeya Road and Kitulo–Matamba–Chimala Road, are set to improve connectivity and reduce post-harvest losses.

While the spotlight was on avocados, Dr. Nchimbi also announced that 20,000 hectares of land in Makete and across Njombe will be allocated for livestock pasture development. 

Additionally, 20 hectares within Makete have been earmarked for local use, allowing livestock keepers better access to quality fodder.

The avocado plan is part of a broader rural transformation agenda by CCM, which also includes:

Others Electrification of all villages in Makete,Installation of new water pipelines, and Modernization of Makete District Hospital, and

Dr Nchimbi  said thw government  will also facilitate fair compensation for residents affected by development projects like Lumakiri.

Dr. Nchimbi emphasized that these plans are not merely campaign promises, but “actionable policies” that will drive inclusive development in Njombe and beyond.

“We want to build a Njombe that feeds the nation, exports to the world, and uplifts every household,” he said.

With the global avocado market projected to grow significantly in the coming years, CCM’s proposed strategy could mark a turning point for Njombe’s economy—if implemented effectively.