Tanzania has officially surpassed Nigeria to become Africa’s second-largest maize producer.
The country recorded an output of 11.7 million tonnes in the 2023/24 farming season, a significant increase from 6.4 million tonnes in 2021/22. The Ministry of Agriculture attributes this growth to key agricultural reforms.
A ministry official stated that the fertiliser subsidy programme, introduced in 2022/23, played a major role in boosting production. Before the subsidy, farmers used an average of 15 kilograms of fertiliser per acre, far below the 50 kilograms applied in countries like South Africa. However, fertiliser use has now increased to 24 kilograms per acre, with a target of 50 kilograms by 2030.
Tanzania is also advancing mechanisation to enhance efficiency and reduce labour costs. The government has already deployed 800 tractors and power tillers and plans to roll out 10,000 machines by 2030 to support farmers. Other interventions include free soil testing, improved seed varieties, and enhanced extension services.
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The National Food Reserve Agency (NFRA) has played a key role in stabilising the maize market. Over the last two seasons, it purchased 700,000 tonnes of maize, a sharp increase from the 200,000 tonnes acquired three years ago. This intervention has helped farmers secure fair prices and reduced post-harvest losses.
Tanzania’s maize has also become a key commodity in regional trade, supplying markets in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Malawi, and Mozambique. Business is booming at Manzete market, one of Tanzania’s largest maize trading hubs. Speaking to CGTN News, traders reported higher sales and increased export opportunities.
Unlike Nigeria, which has pushed for the adoption of genetically modified (GMO) seeds, Tanzania achieved this growth without using GMOs. Despite public concerns over health and environmental risks, Nigeria continues to advocate for GMO farming, while Tanzania has focused on natural farming methods, including fertiliser access, mechanisation, and improved seed varieties.
Data from Tanzania’s agricultural ministry projects maize production to reach 15 million tonnes by the 2025/26 season. While South Africa remains Africa’s top maize producer, with 13 to 15 million tonnes annually, Tanzania’s rapid growth positions it as a strong contender in Africa’s grain market.
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