IFAD Pledges to Further Develop Agriculture and Fisheries Sectors in Tanzania

In efforts to strengthen citizens’ economic well-being, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) has reaffirmed its commitment to continue strategic cooperation with the Government of Tanzania in promoting productive sectors, particularly agriculture and fisheries.

On January 16, 2026, the Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office (Policy, Parliament, Coordination and Disability Affairs), Dr. Jim Yonazi, held high-level discussions with the IFAD Country Director, Mr. Sakphouseth Meng, aimed at reviewing ongoing development projects and enhancing future collaboration in Tanzania.

During the meeting, Mr. Meng delivered encouraging news, stating that IFAD will continue providing loans and financial resources to support projects that directly benefit farmers and fishers across the country.

The IFAD Country Director highlighted key focus areas, including boosting rural livelihoods, increasing productivity in the agriculture and fisheries sectors, and supporting citizens to achieve economic self-reliance through development initiatives within these sectors.

For his part, Dr. Yonazi assured IFAD leadership of the Government’s full readiness to strengthen the partnership, noting that significant progress has already been achieved and that the cooperation has yielded direct and tangible benefits for low-income Tanzanians.

“The Government is fully committed to sustaining this partnership, as the achievements recorded so far are substantial and have positively impacted the lives of our people,” said Dr. Yonazi.

The meeting was also attended by senior officials and technical experts, including Dr. Jacqueline Motcho, IFAD Resident Programme Officer; Mr. Paul Sangawe, Director of the Policy and Coordination Department at the Prime Minister’s Office; and Mr. Salum Mwinjaka, Coordinator of the Agriculture and Fisheries Development Programme (AFDP).

The continued collaboration signals strengthened implementation of the AFDP, which has become a key pillar in supporting the development of Tanzania’s agriculture and fisheries sectors and improving livelihoods nationwide.