CCM has praised agricultural sector strides in Rukwa Region, pointing at an increase in maize production from 300,000 tonnes in 2021 to over 500,000 tonnes.

Silafu Maufi, the ruling party’s Rukwa regional chairperson, made this affirmation at a campaign rally in Laela, Sumbawanga Rural District yesterday, ahead of a meeting featuring CCM presidential running mate Dr Emmanuel Nchimbi.

The regional leader called for greater investment in the agricultural sector, while the running mate took stock of recent achievements in key sectors like health, education, infrastructure and water access.

The introduction of emergency surgical services at the district hospital, a first for the region, was enabled by the Catholic Church, while the number of primary schools increased from 104 to 118 in the past four years.

 The number of graduate teachers moved from just 14 to 1,660 - thus significantly improving the student-teacher ratio and educational outcomes, while water access across Rukwa has improved through the implementation of 15 new water projects, bringing clean and safe water to more communities.

Infrastructure development has been a key focus, with over 11bn/- invested in road construction, resulting in 2.7 kilometres of new roads. In agriculture, more than 7,400 tonnes of subsidised fertiliser have been distributed alongside improved seeds, boosting productivity.

The livestock sector has benefited from increased access to veterinary medicines, while regional security has been enhanced through the addition of new patrol boats.

Looking ahead, the running made points at plans for the construction of three new health centres — including one in Laela where the rally was being held — and 203 new secondary schools, along with expanded classrooms at primary school level.

To strengthen food security and promote commercial farming, the government expects to expand irrigation schemes, ensure timely delivery of fertilisers and increase the availability of high-quality seeds, he said.

He pointed at further improvements in gravel and tarmac roads to enhance regional connectivity, setting out a modern bus terminal in Laela, featuring retail spaces for local commerce.

Enhancing access to clean water by rehabilitating dams and drilling more deep wells will facilitate a 90 percent water coverage target across the region, apart from an industrial cluster for processing crop and dairy products, adding value to local produce and creating employment opportunities.

He reaffirmed strong commitment to rural development, urging residents in the region to support the party in the upcoming general election. “Let us finish what we started and go even further,” he said.