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| Institute of Accountancy Arusha is training experts to enhance Tanzania's agricultural sector through modern technology and innovative practices. |
The Head of the Dodoma Campus of the Institute of Accountancy Arusha (IAA), Prof. Epaphra Manamba, said their ongoing efforts to train experts equipped with the skills to leverage modern technologies in production, management, and crop trading aims to enhance productivity, competitiveness, and the overall value of the agricultural sector in Tanzania.
While speaking at the 49th Nanenane Agricultural Exhibition at the Dr. John Malecela Nzunguni grounds in Dodoma, Prof. Manamba, said that the institute's participation in the exhibition is intended to connect with farmers, provide educational resources, and showcase how professional expertise can bolster agricultural production in the country.
Agriculture is a crucial pillar of Tanzania's economy, employing around 65 percent of the workforce. Yet, it only contributes about 26 percent to the Gross Domestic Product, highlighting a significant opportunity to boost productivity through enhanced knowledge, technology, and improved business management practices.
"To thrive, agriculture needs a skilled workforce that is creative and knowledgeable about modern practices. This is why the Institute of Accountancy Arusha is committed to offering diverse programs in business, economics, finance, and technology, aimed at developing experts who can elevate the agricultural sector's competitiveness and its impact on the national economy," stated Prof. Manamba.
The significant challenges that many farmers face, along with their dependence on inadequate farming tools, highlight a substantial opportunity to boost production. This can be achieved by connecting farmers with financial institutions and professional services that facilitate access to capital and investment in modern technologies.
Prof. Manamba mentioned that the Institute of Accountancy Arusha (IAA) is also dedicated to teaching emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI). Meanwhile students at the institute have already created AI systems aimed at enhancing crop production, such as onions, with the goal of increasing productivity, lowering production costs, and making farming a more lucrative venture.
"We don't want agriculture to be limited to subsistence farming. Our aim is for farmers to adopt a business-oriented approach, add value to their crops, boost their household income, and contribute more significantly to the national economy," he emphasized.
Discussing this year's Nanenane theme, "Understand the Market, Increase Productivity, Implement the National Vision 2050," Prof. Epaphra Manamba said that the vision seeks to cultivate a skilled and knowledgeable workforce capable of driving transformation across various economic sectors, especially agriculture.
" Educational institutions have a crucial role in ensuring they produce graduates equipped with the skills that align with job market demands and technological advancements, which is essential for enhancing production efficiency and enabling Tanzania to meet the development goals outlined in Vision 2050," he said.
The Institute of Accountancy Arusha continues to educate citizens about its diverse programs and how they can prepare young individuals to become experts who will contribute to the advancement of agriculture, business, science , technology and the digital economy in the country.