Tanzanian cotton farmers unhappy with new contract farming

03 Nov '12

1 min read

Cotton cultivators in southern African nation of Tanzania have expressed displeasure over the implementation of the new contract farming system in the country.

At a recent cotton stakeholders’ meeting, farmers said the new system is exploitative and unhealthy.

The contract farming system was introduced by the Tanzanian Government to save the country’s cotton industry from collapse as well as to enhance the quality of cotton produced in the country, which supports around 16 million people.

Cotton farmers said the new system would not benefit them unless some issues are addressed. They especially pointed out that they are now made to purchase sub-standard inputs that do not guarantee high productivity. In addition, they are also made to sell their cotton at a loss.

Under contract farming, agents who do not have ginners, are not allowed to trade in cotton and the system favours the ginners more than the cultivators, farmers said.

George Mpanduji, secretary of Tanzania Cotton Growers Association, said the Government should seriously consider regulating contract farming. He felt that the system could also help farmers if it is well monitored and managed.

Currently, cotton contract farming is being practiced in cotton growing areas of western Tanzania.

Fibre2fashion News Desk - India

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