President Samia Suluhu Hassan on June 27, 2025 announced that the government has empowered the National Food Reserve Agency (NFRA) to begin purchasing and storing sugar during times of shortage, effectively designating the commodity as a strategic crop for the nation, reported The Citizen.
“I extend my sincere appreciation to Members of Parliament for supporting this decision, and I believe we are already beginning to see positive outcomes,” the President said.
In addition to NFRA’s expanded mandate, President Samia outlined ongoing efforts to increase local sugar production through the construction and expansion of processing plants. Among the key projects are the Bagamoyo sugar factory, with a capacity of 35,000 tonnes, the Mkulazi plant at 50,000 tonnes, and a major expansion at Kilombero, which will raise its capacity to 271,000 tonnes.
She also noted recent upgrades at the Mtibwa and Kagera Sugar factories. “Our objective is to raise total sugar output to 700,000 tonnes,” she said.
Fertiliser access has also been a focus. Usage increased from 676,017 tonnes in 2021 to 1.21 million tonnes in 2025, an 80.9 percent rise, bringing the country closer to its seasonal requirement of 1.5 million tonnes. President Samia said the government allocated Sh300 billion in fertiliser subsidies across all crops, raising average usage from 19 to 24 kilogrammes per hectare.
The government has also stepped up support for agricultural inputs and advisory services, with new extension officers equipped with soil testing kits, motorcycles, and smartphones to better serve farmers on the ground.
