Tanzania Achieves Major Sesame Export Milestone, Targets Increased Foreign Exchange Earnings
Tanzania has successfully exported 150,000 tonnes of sesame in 2024, generating Sh300 billion in revenue, with ambitious plans to escalate exports to between 180,000 and 200,000 tonnes in 2025.
The Warehouse Receipt System Regulatory Board revealed that strategic preparations are underway to support farmers and maintain the country’s competitive position in global agricultural markets. Preparations include stakeholder meetings across key agricultural regions like Morogoro Rural, Mvomero, Ifakara, Kilosa, Mlimba, Ulanga, and Gairo.
While the 2024 season saw farmers selling sesame at prices ranging from Sh2,700 to Sh3,800 per kilogram, projections for 2025 indicate a potential price adjustment to Sh2,400-Sh2,500 per kilogram due to global market dynamics.
Despite potential price fluctuations, Tanzanian sesame remains highly regarded internationally, with strong demand from major markets including China, Japan, the United States, and India. The warehouse receipt system has been crucial in transforming agricultural trade, eliminating middlemen and enabling direct sales to buyers.
Farmers have already witnessed significant benefits since the system’s implementation. For instance, cocoa prices increased from Sh4,000 to Sh39,000 per kilogram, while sesame prices rose from Sh1,000-Sh1,500 to Sh3,500 per kilogram.
The ongoing initiatives aim to support farmers, ensure fair pricing, and continue driving Tanzania’s agricultural export growth.
