TANZANIA is set to host the Africa Pig International Conference (APICON) from September 11 to 13 in Dar es Salaam, with the government keen to support participation of youth and women to drive transformation in the subsector.

Speaking to reporters in Dodoma yesterday, Deputy Minister for Livestock and Fisheries Alexander Mnyeti said the ministry was organizing the event in collaboration with Tanzania Pig Farmers Association (TAPIFA). He noted that despite the subsector's potential, pig farming currently contributes minimally to the national economy.

“The conference will bring together 2,000 stakeholders from across and beyond Africa to spark innovation and growth in the pig farming subsector. It will spotlight modern farming techniques, the role of technology and access to both local and international markets,” he said.

He added that participants will include government officials, investors, academics, youth and women entrepreneurs, development partners and business players along the pig farming value chain from across Africa.

The summit will also feature training sessions led by industry experts, business dialogues to explore market opportunities, and field visits to give participants hands-on insights into modern pig farming practices.

TAPIFA Chairperson, Doreen Maro, highlighted the industry’s untapped potential, urging young people and women to seize the opportunity, noting that pig farming can deliver quicker economic returns compared to cattle farming.

APICON is a key event for the African pig industry, bringing together stakeholders, farmers, and industry experts from across Africa and Europe.