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Kenyan investor’s plea to government
2006-03-04 10:05:12
By Guardian Reporter, Iringa
An investor in agriculture and livestock development sector from Kenya has requested the government to allow him to develop three estates in Makete, Kilolo and Mafinga lying fallow in Iringa.
Mark Taylor, an investor who determined to make a difference in the agricultural production expressed the commitment to expand irrigation schemes in the country to reduce dependence on rainfall cultivation.
During an exclusive interview granted to our sister daily in Kiswahili, Nipashe in Iringa recently, Taylor said the dairy farms previously under the management of the government could increase the revenue if properly utilised.
He named the farms as Ngongwa Seed Farm in Kilolo District, LMU in Makete, and Mafinga farm in Mufindi District, all in Iringa region; Mbozi farm in Mbeya Region and LMU of Songea in Ruvuma Region.
Taylor said he needed about 20,000 hectares for production of maize, the yield that could be sufficient for feeding at least twenty regions.
’’I believe the problem of food shortage could be addressed more adequately should the government give support to investors focused on agriculture. I am looking forward to making contribution to the agriculture sector in Tanzania,’’ Taylor said.
The same investor is running another farm of 402 hectares in Ifunda, Iringa Region under successful irrigation scheme and would like to apply similar farming techniques for best results.
Commenting on the role of the local communities, Taylor said the general public has the capacity to increase the pace of economic development of the country through effective participation in productive activities like agriculture.
’’Through utilisation of the three farms, I am requesting the government to allocate to me, I am confident the problem of food shortage could be reduced by 70 per cent,’’ he said.
Giving statistical example, Taylor said in Ifunda, Iringa the 200 hectares of maize cultivated through irrigation would produce more than 1,800 tonnes.
On their part, interviewed residents spoke of the necessity to reduce dependence on rainfall and focus on massive production through application of modern farming practice through extensive investments.
Julius Mgongolwa, 49, of Mafinga had this to say: ’’Local communities have the potential to work closely with investors to ensure reliable harvest and good supply of food to many families.’’
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