DAR ES SALAAM, Sept. 4 -- AGRICULTURE remains the backbone of Tanzanias economy, with recent figures showing continued growth in production, food security and exports.

However, behind these gains is a persistent challenge: The country remains heavily dependent on imported fertiliser, raising concerns about the cost and sustainability of agricultural expansion.

The agricultural sectors growth rate rose from 3.9 per cent in 2021 to 4.1 per cent in 2024, while food production increased by 39 per cent, from 17.1 million tonnes in 2021/22 to 23.8 million tonnes in 2024/25.

The increase has strengthened Tanzanias food position, with food self-sufficiency rising from 126 to 130 per cent and the country recording a surplus of 5.5 million tonne...