Why TZ cannot afford to lose its cotton future

COTTON has historically contributed to Tanzania’s industrial growth by supporting countless farmers, supplying the textile sector, and generating essential export revenue. Today, that foundation is eroding. In Tanzania, the cotton season typically begins with planting between November and January, while harvesting takes place from June to September. The Lake Zone remains the country’s primary cotton-producing region.

Cotton cultivation has declined significantly. Available evidence shows that the planted area fell from about 437,000 hectares in 2020 to 310,431 hectares in 2022/23. Simiyu remains the leading cotton-producing region, accounting for 160,527 hectares. National cotton production also declined from 331,524 tonnes in 2019/20 to 218,413 tonnes in 2022/23.

This decline has multiple causes, including low farm yields, rising input costs, pests and diseases, unpredictable rainfall, declining soil fertility, delayed planting, limited access to quality inputs, and competition from alternative crops and other economic activities.