Tanzania eyes cotton output recovery to 300,000 tonnes

Mr Luneja said that while the new target marks an improvement, it remains below the earlier projection of 400,000 tonnes. He attributed the shortfall to drought conditions between January and February, which significantly affected yields. “As a result, we produced 222,057 tonnes. ALSO READ: TZ showcases housing opportunities at Africa forum This year, we have set a target of 300,000 tonnes, partly due to delayed rainfall onset in the Lake Victoria Zone, which caused late planting,” he said. He noted that weather conditions have since improved, supporting crop development ahead of harvesting, expected to begin in May. Mr Luneja described cotton as a strategic crop that has contributed between 400bn/- and 600bn/- to the national economy over the past five years, while providing livelihoods to about 40 per cent of Tanzanians and supplying raw materials to both domestic and international industries. He said Simiyu Region is expected to lead production, contributing about 60 per cent ...