A plan to plant 500,000 improved coffee seedlings in Vunjo Constituency, Kilimanjaro Region, has sparked optimism among local coffee farmers. At the same time, young people are being encouraged to actively engage in coffee farming as a pathway to boosting productivity and securing sustainable incomes. This initiative forms part of broader efforts to revive the coffee sector, which in recent years has faced significant challenges, particularly fluctuating and often declining prices that discouraged many farmers and led to reduced production.

Speaking at a coffee farmers’ meeting held in Marangu Mashariki ward, Iddi Mfinanga, the secretary to the Member of Parliament for Vunjo, stated that the program aims to increase production, improve farmers’ incomes, and restore coffee as a leading cash crop in the area. Mr Mfinange emphasized the importance of the younger generation learning from experienced farmers to ensure that critical knowledge and skills in coffee cultivation are preserved and passed on for the benefit of future generations. He also assured farmers that efforts are underway to ensure they receive pending payments through Agricultural Marketing Cooperative Societies (AMCOS), a move expected to restore confidence and motivate continued investment in coffee farming.

The Ward Councilor Innocent Shirima noted that revitalizing coffee production could drive significant economic transformation for local communities, adding that current market prices present a promising opportunity for farmers.

Meanwhile, Moshi District Agricultural Officer Magabu Mongela confirmed that preparations for distributing the seedlings have been completed, with planting scheduled to begin during the 2025/26 season. He also advised farmers to replace old coffee trees with new seedlings to achieve higher yields and better quality harvests.