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Stakeholders, policymakers and researchers in the agricultural sector converged in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, for the 10th annual Agriculture, Nutrition and Health (ANH) Academy Week. The four-day event took place from June 23rd to 26th, with Dr Doto Biteko, Tanzania’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Energy, as the guest of honour. 

Among the key topics addressed was the increase in the budget for Tanzania’s agricultural sector for the 2025/26 financial year. Agriculture contributes 29 per cent to the GDP and forms the backbone of Tanzania’s economy, with approximately 65 per cent of the country’s population involved in the value chain. The 29 per cent increment is meant to boost production and promote the industry’s growth. 

Speaking at the event, Dr Mark Korir, Programme Manager for the African Economic Research Consortium (AERC), stated that there’s a need for all African countries to increase their budget allocation for agriculture.  “If needed, Africa needs to have subsidies to ensure that we have enough fertiliser and extension officers to teach about smart agricultural practices and proper nutrition. This way, we can curb malnutrition and ensure we have a healthy continent,” he said, adding, “Prevention is better than a cure.” The AERC is actively involved in shaping and strengthening Africa’s food systems through research. 

During the Academy Week, stakeholders also discussed ways for the agriculture, nutrition, and health sectors to collaborate in combating food shortages across the continent.