CCM presidential candidate Samia Suluhu Hassan has cautioned farmers across the country against selling subsidised agricultural inputs, particularly fertiliser, warning that the malpractice threatens to derail the government’s ambitious agricultural transformation drive.

Addressing a rally at Mlimareli grounds in Mbalizi, Mbeya rural constituency yesterday,  Samia said the government has invested heavily in providing affordable inputs to farmers to improve yields and boost the nation’s food security. She stressed that diverting subsidised fertiliser for resale not only betrays the programme’s intent but also risks reversing the progress made so far.

“Here in Mbalizi, in Mbeya and across Tanzania, you have all benefited from subsidised agricultural inputs. To strengthen agriculture, we are providing fertiliser, improved seeds and extension officers to support you in the fields,” she said. “We want Tanzania to feed itself and even export to neighbouring countries. That is why we have brought in enough subsidised fertiliser. I am urging you not to collaborate with wrongdoers in reselling it. Let us not move backwards.”

She urged farmers to continue registering under the programme, assuring them that the government has sufficient resources to sustain the subsidies. In addition, she pledged the construction of a modern abattoir and provision of livestock vaccines to enable Tanzanian beef to penetrate global markets.

At a separate rally at the Old Airport grounds in Mbeya Urban Constituency, Dr Samia promised to address long-standing urban infrastructure challenges. She announced that street lights will be installed in Ilomba, Isaye, Mafiati, Rift Valley and Uyole to allow business activities to operate around the clock. She further pledged that once funds are secured, a pedestrian bridge would be constructed at Mwanjelwa to ease congestion in one of the city’s busiest commercial areas.

Turning to the health sector, Dr Samia reaffirmed her commitment to financing health insurance for the most vulnerable households. She also announced that her government will establish a reproductive health package as part of broader efforts to improve healthcare delivery.

She also promised support for the Kyela Cooperative Society by backing the establishment of a cocoa processing factory, describing the project as a strategic investment in adding value to Tanzania’s cocoa production.

Other CCM leaders used the platform to rally support for the presidential candidate. Kilosa parliamentary aspirant Prof Palamagamba Kabudi praised Samia as a “Professor of Politics”, citing her courage, competence and human-centred leadership. Uyole parliamentary candidate Dr Tulia Ackson declared that Mbeya would deliver an honourable vote for Samia in recognition of her achievements.

The CCM presidential flag bearer is expected to continue her campaign trail today (Friday) with rallies in Rungwe and Mbarali districts before heading to Njombe Urban for a major gathering.