Kilimo Kwanza is the current household name in Tanzania. Its popularity is hinged on its centrality in the economic development endeavors of our nation. Kilimo Kwanza is a well thought initiative created by a think-tank taxed by the Government (via Tanzania National Business Council) to look into ways and means to revitalize our agriculture by addressing crosscutting issues.

Agricultural Council of Tanzania – ACT was a very active participant in the creation of Kilimo Kwanza. With a view to popularize this concept, ACT organized a one day workshop on 29th August 2009, at Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro. This event was attended by our members, potential members and our partners. It was another opportunity for stakeholders to deliberate on this new initiative and come to a common understanding on what should be done.

Kilimo Kwanza concept is intended to fast track agricultural development measures by embarking on a number of interventions in a spirit of public –private –partnership. It is based on a Green Book which was launched in June 2009 by His Excellency President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete. This publication outlines the necessary policies and strategies that we have to pursue to achieve a Green Revolution.

Workshop participants deliberated on four down-to-earth papers. 
          1. The concept of Kilimo Kwanza
          2. Investing in crop production
          3. Investing in animal production
          4. Investing in the fishing industry

The presentations were followed with complementary contributions from the participants. The diversity of participants resulted in extensive experience sharing and lively discussion. The ultimate aim of the exercise was to hear from stakeholders, hence to incorporate their views in a policy paper which will be presented to the Government later this year.