THE Cereals and Other Produce Regulatory Authority (COPRA) has stepped up efforts to educate farmers across Tanzania on the benefits and use of the warehouse receipt system and digital auction platforms, seeking to foster fair, transparent and competitive trading environments in the agriculture sector.

During a recent groundnut auction held at Kwadelo Village in Kondoa District, Singida Region, COPRA Agriculture Officer Hamza Nangameta highlighted the critical role systems play in protecting farmers’ interests and improving profitability. He emphasized that widespread understanding and adoption of these mechanisms are essential for farmers to maximize earnings and secure fair treatment in the market.

“The government continues to invest in educating farmers about this system because it provides a secure framework that helps them avoid fraud and ensures they receive fair prices for their produce,” he explained.

He further elaborated that the warehouse receipt and digital auction systems are designed to promote transparency and stimulate competitive bidding among buyers, which ultimately benefits farmers by guaranteeing prices aligned with actual market values. The systems also offer farmers the advantage of using warehouse receipts as collateral for accessing credit, thus enabling better financial management and planning.

Nangameta mentioned that extensive training sessions have already been conducted for farmers at the village as well as participants of the recent auction at Chubi, Itaswi Ward. He urged farmers to avoid selling their produce outside official channels, warning that doing so exposes them to risks of unfair pricing and exploitation by middlemen.

“With this system, farmers are the primary beneficiaries in the cereals and mixed crops value chain. Prices are determined by competition and global market trends, shielding farmers from manipulation and ensuring they get the value they deserve,” he said.

At the auction event, groundnut farmers from Kwadelo successfully sold their produce at competitive prices ranging from 2,210/- to 2,240/- per kilo—an indication of how the system enhances price stability through open bidding.

Local farmer and participant, Juma Lubuva, described the system as a “game-changer” for producers. He said it has enabled farmers like him to increase their profits and improve their household incomes, thus boosting livelihoods and encouraging continued investment in farming activities.

“I urge my fellow farmers to fully embrace this system and seize the opportunity it presents. By doing so, we can all realize the full benefits of our hard work and produce,” he said.

COPRA has committed to continuing and expanding training programmes nationwide, aiming to equip farmers with the necessary knowledge and practical skills to effectively use the systems. This initiative is part of broader efforts to empower farmers, promote sustainable agricultural growth and improve market efficiency in Tanzania.