ZANZIBAR: FARMERS on Tumbatu Islet in Unguja North Region have expressed concern over the growing threat posed by monkeys, crop pests, climate change and inadequate agricultural knowledge, noting that these challenges are significantly reducing agricultural productivity and slowing the sector’s growth.
The concerns were raised during a visit by Unguja North Special Seats MP, Ms Shadya Haji Omar, who toured the island to hear challenges facing women and farmers.
Speaking on behalf of the farmers, Tumbatu Farmers’ Secretary, Ms Arafa Haji Khamis, said farmers continue to suffer heavy losses as monkeys and other pests frequently destroy their crops.
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She said climate change has compounded the problem through erratic rainfall, resulting in lower crop yields, reduced household incomes, declining food production and weakened farmers’ morale.
“We call upon the government and development partners to support efforts to control monkeys and crop pests, while also providing regular training to farmers on how to cope with climate change in order to improve agricultural productivity,” she said.
Responding, Ms Shadya assured residents that she will present their concerns to the relevant authorities in search of lasting solutions. She underscored the need for close collaboration among the government, agricultural experts and local communities to effectively address the challenges facing the sector.