By Business Insider Reporter
The country has taken a major step towards strengthening its fast-growing horticulture industry with the official launch of the Horti Logistica Africa Council.
The new instgitution was unveiled recently by Dr. Jim Yonazi, Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office (Policy, Parliament and Coordination). The launch took place during the Annual Africa Horticulture Agribusiness Conference held at the Hyatt Regency hotel in Dar es Salaam.
The council, which will convene every November in Tanzania, is set to become a premier platform bringing together global and African stakeholders in the horticulture value chain.
It aims to showcase production trends, explore market dynamics and highlight innovations across the sector – from farm to export market. Stakeholders will also use the annual gathering to share experiences, address challenges and identify investment opportunities in one of Africa’s most rapidly expanding agricultural segments.
Dr. Yonazi, who represented Chief Secretary Ambassador Dr. Moses Kusiluka as guest of honour, praised the Ministry of Agriculture and the Tanzania Horticultural Association (TAHA) for advancing the country’s horticulture agenda. He commended their work in improving systems, markets and skills, and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working closely with the private sector to upgrade cold-chain infrastructure, transport systems and market access.
“Horticulture is an industry that creates significant employment opportunities for young people and women. Strengthening it is essential for building an inclusive economy,” Dr. Yonazi said.
Rapid growth in the sector
The horticulture industry has become one of Tanzania’s top non-traditional export earners over the past decade, driven by rising global demand for high-value crops such as avocados, French beans, tomatoes, onions, berries and cut flowers. Improved air freight capacity, market diversification and private-sector investment have accelerated the sector’s performance.
By 2024, TAHA recorded US$ 569 million in horticultural export revenues, almost doubling from US$ 290.7 million in 2020. This remarkable growth reflects Tanzania’s increasing competitiveness in regional and international markets, particularly in Europe and the Middle East.
Government reforms – including improvements in irrigation, seed systems, digital extension services and the introduction of specialised cargo facilities – have played a crucial role in boosting productivity and export quality.
Strengthening farmer participation
Dr. Yonazi concluded by urging TAHA to work closely with the Ministry of Agriculture to ensure that the Horticulture Trade and Investment Forum is held every 1 August during the Nane Nane International Agricultural Exhibition. He said bringing the forum to Nane Nane will allow more farmers across all regions to participate, learn about market opportunities and discuss practical challenges facing the sector. Analysts say the establishment of Horti Logistica Africa strengthens Tanzania’s ambition to position itself as a regional leader in horticulture logistics, production and trade. With growing export revenues, rising investor interest and expanding smallholder participation, the sector is poised to play a central role in the country’s agricultural transformation.
