Manyara. Some Maasai pastoralists in Simanjiro District, Manyara Region, have ventured into modern drip irrigation farming, marking a significant shift from their traditional reliance on livestock.
This innovative farming technique uses perforated pipes that release small amounts of water directly to crops, ensuring efficient water usage while maximizing yields compared to rain-dependent farming.
The pastoralists took this step while continuing their livestock practices, recognizing the opportunities that modern farming offers.
They noted that this new approach yields greater harvests and helps to mitigate the long-standing conflicts between farmers and herders, which have been reported in various parts of the country.
Speaking at a press briefing held in Orkirung’rung’ village, Simanjiro, where journalists visited demonstration farms organized by the Agricultural Markets Development Trust (AMDT) through the VACS project, the Maasai pastoralists shared their experiences.
One of them, Mathayo Olonyoki, a farmer and herder from Oldonyongijabe, Simanjiro, revealed that he has adopted drip irrigation for growing cowpeas and green grams. He praised the method for enabling year-round farming and ensuring consistent harvests.
“Now, we don’t just rely on livestock. We see that farming has just as much value. Moreover, we no longer depend solely on seasonal rains; we can cultivate crops at any time of the year,” said Olonyoki.
He attributed his success to the training he received from agricultural stakeholders, including Beula Seed Producers and AMDT, which he said were instrumental in his progress.
Olonyoki further emphasized the importance of peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders, urging both groups to stop the damaging practices of farmers harming livestock and herders allowing their animals to graze on crops.
“These conflicts are unnecessary, and I call on both sides to abandon such behavior,” he added.
The retired chairman of Orkirung’rung’ village, Noah Moringe, echoed Olonyoki’s sentiments, explaining that the local pastoralists have embraced modern farming practices after observing the opportunities presented through demonstration farms. According to Moringe, these farms have helped the community realize the hidden potential in agriculture.
Another farmer, Mathayo Sarakikya, from Orokesmeti village, expressed amazement at how drip irrigation has transformed farming in Simanjiro, especially during dry seasons. He noted that the method has created a new sense of enthusiasm among farmers.
Rose Kagonji, a resident of Mirerani, also highlighted the impact of drip irrigation education. She explained that this knowledge has enabled her to practice modern farming alongside livestock keeping, without any conflicts.
However, according to agricultural officer Jenifa Mbuya, rainfall in Simanjiro has been erratic, affecting traditional farming practices.
Currently, nearly 99 percent of the Maasai community in the district are engaged in both farming and livestock keeping. Mbuya advised farmers to grow drought-resistant crops as the government continues its efforts to address the challenges posed by climate change.
Despite the promotion of modern farming techniques, Mbuya noted that farmers still face challenges, including insufficient rainfall. This has led them to collaborate with AMDT and Beula for training on drip irrigation as a way to overcome these obstacles.
Delta Shila, Monitoring and Evaluation Coordinator at AMDT, explained that the organization is committed to supporting Tanzanian farmers in adopting climate-resilient farming practices.
“Our goal is to see farmers cultivate year-round without being hindered by factors such as rain. This is why we are empowering them, including installing solar-powered water pumps for wells in various regions, including Dodoma,” Shila said.
The initiative demonstrates a promising future for Maasai pastoralists, who are not only embracing modern farming but also fostering a harmonious relationship between farming and herding for sustainable livelihoods.