Kyerwa District Agricultural Platform Officially Launched
Kyerwa, Tanzania | 18 August 2026 The Civic Social Protection Foundation (CSP), in collaboration with its core partner, the Foundation for Local Capacity in Agricultural Development (FLCAD), officially launched the Kyerwa District Agricultural Platform (DAP) on 18 August 2026, marking an important milestone in strengthening collaboration and collective action among smallholder farmers and agricultural stakeholders in Kyerwa District. The platform brings together farmers, crop traders, NGOs, District Council technical officers, and other stakeholders across the agricultural value chain. It was established under the ASILI-B Climate Change (ASILI-B CC) Programme, implemented by CSP and FLCAD in partnership with Vi Agroforestry. The official launch was presided over by the Kyerwa District Commissioner, Hon. Zaituni, who commended CSP, FLCAD and their partners for establishing a platform that the district had long needed. In her remarks, the District Commissioner emphasized the importance of local ownership and continuity, calling on stakeholders to ensure that the platform remains active and continues to serve the people of Kyerwa beyond the lifespan of the project. She urged farmers to use the platform to strengthen unity and collective voice, ensuring that their concerns, priorities and recommendations are heard and acted upon by relevant decision-makers. She further emphasized that the DAP should serve as a strong voice for smallholder farmers, particularly in advocating for fair policies and addressing challenges that disadvantage farmers. The District Commissioner also encouraged farmers to embrace self-reliance, noting that they should not depend solely on donor support. Instead, the platform should provide an opportunity for farmers to share knowledge and experiences, collectively address challenges, improve productivity and build sustainable livelihoods. She further encouraged stakeholders to promote climate-smart and productive agriculture, including profitable farming practices and organic approaches, particularly agroforestry, as a means of strengthening resilience to climate change. She emphasized that its knowledge, values and benefits should remain within the community and continue to guide collective action even after project partners and programmes come to an end. The Kyerwa DAP is expected to provide a space for stakeholders to collaborate, share knowledge, identify challenges and opportunities, and collectively influence decisions affecting agriculture and smallholder farmers in the district. As part of establishing leadership for the platform, members elected a Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson, who will lead and represent members as the platform moves forward. The launch marks an important step towards building a more coordinated, inclusive and resilient agricultural sector in Kyerwa District. Kilimo Misitu kwa Ukuaji Imara wa Uchumi na Maisha Endelevu — Agroforestry for a resilient economy and sustainable livelihoods.
