ITALIAN agro-sector investors have interest in the Kongwa ranch in Dodoma Region, with a view to launching commercial farming initiatives there.

Antonio Corvino, an agribusiness expert with the group, said at the ongoing Farmers’ Exhibition at Nzuguni grounds here yesterday that the group is awaiting facilitation to visit the ranch to assess available farmland and evaluate options for long-term investments.

The expert cited his over 40 years of experience in agriculture, affirming that his team wishes to explore grape farming and other crops at the ranch, pledging to offer agronomic advice as part of eventual collaboration.

He expressed satisfaction with the livestock farming areas he had visited so far, stating that they have great potential not only for agricultural production but also as tourist attractions.

In addition to the investment proposal, he urged the government to consider sending young Tanzanians to Italy for hands-on training in advanced agricultural techniques, as such effort would help equip the next generation of Tanzanian farmers with practical skills and global exposure.

Gerald Mweli, the Agriculture permanent secretary, encouraged the prospective investor to consider offering the training locally in order to reach a broader audience of young farmers.

“We are not against sending youth abroad for training, but we would prefer that these skills be transferred here in Tanzania so that many more farmers can benefit. The government is ready to support the training by providing the necessary equipment,” he said.

He sought to assure the visiting business group that the government remains open and ready to collaborate with experienced agricultural investors, pointing at potential investment locations beyond Kongwa, especially Chunya (Mbeya Region) and Ikungi (Singida Region), both exhibiting untapped agricultural potential.

“We welcome your expertise and investment. There is ample land and numerous opportunities here, and the government is committed to supporting initiatives that boost productivity and innovation in the agricultural sector,” he further noted.

Agriculture is now regarded as a viable business in Tanzania and the government is increasingly promoting modern technologies to ensure farmers benefit from their work, he said.

If the proposed collaboration materialises, it could mark a significant step forward in advancing agribusiness, knowledge transfer and youth empowerment in Tanzania’s agricultural landscape, he added.