In Tanzania, access to quality inputs, such as seeds and agrochemicals, is limited for the 80 percent of the population engaged in agriculture. While a lower population density increases farmers' land size, the distribution of inputs is made even more difficult and therefore expensive. In years with drought, disease, or infestation by pests, the entire country suffers because of the lack of access to pesticides, fertilizer, and other agronomic technology. CDI's programs are focused in the Southern Agricultural Growth Corridor (SAGCOT) in the Ilula, Iringa Rural, and Kilolo districts. The Iringa region has a total population of more than 900,000 people, with a population density of 27 people per square kilometer. The Government of Tanzania view agricultural productivity as the key mechanism to reduce the country's poverty and seeks to increase private sector partnership with agriculture and improve smallholder access to technology.

Smallholder Outreach

CDI began working with smallholder communities in Iringa during the 2013-14 season. Since then, CDI field officers have facilitated the formation of farmer clubs and hubs with more than 5,000 farmers. CDI provides smallholder farmers with access to inputs, post-harvest opportunities, and training. CDI field officers are establishing a well-organized and empowered network of farmer clubs and hubs and utilize demonstration plots in the community to illustrate the benefits of improved inputs, climate-smart agronomic practices, and enterprise development.