COMPLETION of a strategic market worth 1.4 billion/- being constructed at Remagwe Village in Tarime District, Mara Region which is meant to ease food trade at the border with Kenya is set for July this year.

The project, under the District Agriculture Sector Investment Project (DASIP), is in its final stages, with completion expected by July 2025.

Speaking here at the weekend, Tarime Rural MP Mwita Waitara stated that the market would help resolve the long-standing issue of farmers selling their produce at low prices across the border. He explained that many local farmers have been forced to sell their produce while still in the field, contributing to food insecurity as they await the next rainy season.

"The government's goal is to complete construction of the   market under the 2024/25 FY budget to allow residents trade rice and maize along the border," he said. "This will provide farmers with secure market access, preventing exploitation by middlemen in neighbouring country and ensuring better prices."

Tarime District Commissioner Edward Gowele emphasised the government's commitment to expanding international trade of fruits, vegetables, and cereals to boost the local economy. He added that with the support of the Cereals and Other Produce Regulatory Authority (COPRA) and the Tanzania Horticultural Association (TAHA), farmers would be able to export their produce to international markets via the new facility.

Some of the farmers noted that they are currently forced to sell their produce across the border due to lack of reliable domestic markets and the stronger currencies of the neighbouring country.

“We sell across the border because local middlemen exploit us here,” said Marko Chacha.