Horticulture industry eyes new growth potentials
Agricultural experts in Tanzania are identifying the rambutan fruit as a high-value crop with significant commercial potential across seven regions. The initiative aims to transition the fruit from an informal trade to a structured horticultural value chain.
Why it matters
Developing new high-value crops can diversify agricultural exports and improve economic outcomes for farmers in East Africa.
DAR ES SALAAM: HORTICULTURE industry is eyeing a new growth opportunity as rambutan, or shokishoki, emerges as a potential high-value crop for farmers and investors seeking new domestic and export markets.
With rambutan identified for commercial production in seven regions, the fruit could open a wider business ecosystem spanning farming, processing, packaging, cold storage, logistics and exports.
Still relatively unfamiliar to many mainland consumers, rambutan is already traded between Zanzibar and mainland markets.
Its existing trade, favourable growing conditions and potential access to premium international markets are now prompting interest in whether the crop can move from a largely informal business into an organised horticultural value chain.
An assessment by agricultural expert Mr Geoffrey Kirenga identifies Zanzibar, Coast, Tanga, Morogoro, Lindi, Mtwara and Kyela District in Mbeya as areas with potential for commercial production.
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