Home Features Zanzibar’s Fields of Opportunity: US-Korean Partnership Cultivates a New Generation of Agripreneurs

Zanzibar’s Fields of Opportunity: US-Korean Partnership Cultivates a New Generation of Agripreneurs

by Grace Kisembo

A quiet revolution is taking root in the fertile lands of Zanzibar. A powerful partnership between the United States, Tanzania, Zanzibar, and South Korea is blossoming, empowering women and youth entrepreneurs to transform the island’s agricultural landscape. Through strategic investments and innovative collaborations, once-fallow fields are now yielding bountiful harvests, offering a glimpse into a more prosperous and food-secure future.

The driving force behind this transformation is a collaborative effort spearheaded by the U.S. government, through USAID’s Feed the Future initiative. Two key projects, Imarisha Sekta Binafsi (Private Sector Strengthening) and Kilimo Tija (Agricultural Productivity), are working in tandem to foster public-private partnerships and forge stronger connections with the private sector. The result? A surge in agricultural productivity, particularly among women and young farmers, who are now cultivating off-season horticultural crops and reaping the rewards of increased income.

At the heart of this success story lies the Kibokwa irrigation project, a shining example of multilateral collaboration. U.S. Ambassador Michael Battle lauded the project as a model of international cooperation, emphasizing its role in revitalizing Zanzibar’s food system. “Today, we are proudly showcasing the Kibokwa irrigation project, a model of multilateral collaboration,” Ambassador Battle declared. “In partnership with the Republic of South Korea and the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar, this irrigation project is helping to revitalize the island’s food system.”

The project’s impact is tangible. Thanks to USAID’s contributions, the irrigation system now operates year-round, enabling the cultivation of vegetables during the traditional rice off-season. This not only maximizes agricultural output but also significantly boosts economic returns for farmers, with a particular focus on empowering women and youth.

The scale of this initiative is impressive. A substantial $61.6 million loan from the South Korean government has enabled the development and rehabilitation of 150 hectares (390 acres) of irrigation infrastructure across Unguja and Pemba. These crucial upgrades are laying the foundation for increased agricultural productivity and unlocking a wealth of opportunities for further investment across the entire agricultural supply chain.

The ripple effects of this investment are far-reaching. New jobs are being created, farmer revenues are on the rise, and, perhaps most importantly, food security is being strengthened across the region. The project is not simply about irrigation; it’s about cultivating a more resilient and prosperous future for Zanzibar.

The success of the Kibokwa project highlights the power of strategic partnerships. By bringing together the expertise and resources of multiple stakeholders, the project has achieved remarkable results. The collaboration between USAID, the Tanzanian and Zanzibari governments, and the South Korean government demonstrates a shared commitment to sustainable development and economic empowerment.

The women and youth at the forefront of this agricultural transformation are not just farmers; they are entrepreneurs. Through contract farming arrangements with local hotels in Zanzibar, they are gaining access to new markets and significantly increasing their earnings. They are demonstrating the transformative potential of improved irrigation and modern farming techniques, inspiring a new generation of agripreneurs.

The long-term vision for this initiative extends beyond increased productivity. It’s about building a more sustainable and inclusive agricultural sector in Zanzibar, one that empowers women, creates opportunities for youth, and strengthens food security for the entire island. The seeds of change have been sown, and the fruits of this partnership are beginning to ripen, promising a brighter future for Zanzibar’s agricultural landscape.

Related Posts