Dodoma. In a move to transform agriculture and empower smallholder farmers, the Tanzania Agricultural Development Bank (TADB) has disbursed low-interest loans worth Sh1.129 trillion over the past ten years.
This initiative supports national efforts to enhance the agricultural sector, as the country gears up to celebrate Farmers’ Day (Nanenane) at the Nzuguni Grounds in Dodoma.
Speaking in Dodoma on July 31, 2025, ahead of the national Nanenane exhibitions, TADB Managing Director Frank Nyabundege highlighted the bank’s core mission of facilitating affordable financing for farmers.
“TADB remains committed to supporting the government’s agenda of transforming agriculture into a productive, commercial sector by easing access to credit with farmer-friendly terms,” he said.
Nyabundege noted that this year’s exhibition is particularly significant as it showcases the progress made in agriculture through TADB’s support. He credited President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s leadership, pointing out that when she assumed office, the bank’s capital stood at Sh60 million. This has since grown to Sh442 million.
Moreover, the President allocated Sh1 trillion to the Bank of Tanzania, enabling commercial banks to borrow at a low interest rate of 3 percent, ultimately allowing farmers to access loans at rates below 10 percent significantly lower than the previous 20 to 30 percent.
Meanwhile, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Gerald Mweli, emphasized the importance of this year’s improved Nanenane exhibitions.
“Nanenane is not just a trade fair; it is a platform for education, training, and awareness for our farmers. We welcome all stakeholders to take part,” he said.
The 2025 Nanenane exhibitions are scheduled to begin on August 1, with the Vice President of the United Republic of Tanzania expected to officiate the opening.
The event will bring together key players in the agriculture sector, including farmers, financial institutions, researchers, and input suppliers, to share knowledge and showcase the achievements of agricultural reforms across the country.