A new training initiative will build the necessary skills in Tanzania’s labor force to realize the promise of horticulture for livelihoods and the economy.

A new strategic partnership to emphasize practical horticultural training in Tanzania emerged on 29 June 2020 when the Tanzania Horticultural Association (TAHA) signed a memorandum of understanding with the Europe-Africa-Caribbean-Pacific Liaison Committee (COLEACP), the World Vegetable Center (WorldVeg) and the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST) for a ‘Marshall Plan’ to bridge the skills gap in the multi-million-dollar horticulture industry.

The new initiative aims to produce highly-skilled personnel to spur the industry’s growth, earn the economy $1.85 billion per annum in the next five years (up from the current $779 million), and create jobs and wealth for youth and women.

COLEACP is an international network promoting sustainable horticultural trade between ACP (African, Caribbean and Pacific States) countries and the European Union. WorldVeg is the leading international institute for vegetable research and development, with a regional office in Arusha, Tanzania.

Arusha-based NM-AIST will offer accredited training programs, local and internationally recognized certificates, and diploma courses in horticulture. WorldVeg and COLEACP will contribute their vast experience in research and development, postharvest management and technology crucial to transform the horticulture industry. TAHA will coordinate public and private sector support for the initiative.

“The 5-year pilot programme will see thousands of youths developing the skills to unlock the industry’s potential,” said TAHA Group Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Jacqueline Mkindi. She noted that the lack of trained labor has become the single biggest roadblock to industry growth.