Tanzanian Scientist Unveils Vision for Agriculture in 2126
Arusha – A groundbreaking publication offering scientific projections on the future of global agriculture over the next century has been unveiled by a leading Tanzanian scientist.
The book, Global Agriculture Transformation, provides an extensive examination of what farming could look like in the year 2126, exploring how technological innovation and demographic shifts will fundamentally reshape the agricultural sector.
The work is regarded as the first comprehensive study of its kind, outlining how rapid technological advancement, coupled with the entry of more than 1.2 billion young people into agriculture globally, is expected to transform food production systems.
Central to the publication is an analysis of the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI), automation, and robotics in future farming systems. The study examines how these cutting-edge technologies will redefine agricultural practices over the coming decades.
Set to become a significant contribution to agricultural literature, the publication will be translated into ten languages to reach a global audience.
Comprising 17 chapters, the book traces agriculture’s evolution from early domestication processes to contemporary forces shaping global food production today.
Prof Joseph Ndunguru, Director General of the Tanzania Plant Health and Pesticides Authority (TPHPA), formally presented the first copy to the chairperson of the Presidential Food and Agriculture Council and former Prime Minister, Mr Mizengo Pinda.
The publication outlines the scientific, technological, and policy reforms required to drive global agricultural transformation. It also examines the influence of major international institutions such as the World Bank and the Food and Agriculture Organization on national and global agricultural strategies.
Despite Africa’s heavy dependence on agriculture—where more than 580 million people rely on the sector—the book highlights concerns over the continent’s limited economic returns, noting that agriculture accounts for only 25 percent of Africa’s gross domestic product (GDP).
"Agriculture in Africa is still lagging behind, and this book aims to shed light on the changes needed to move the sector forward," TNC has learned.
Former Prime Minister Mizengo Pinda commended the publication, describing it as a critical resource for Tanzania’s economic advancement.
"This book is extremely important. We must secure additional copies for the President, Vice President, and Prime Minister," he said upon receiving the inaugural copy.
The book was launched during the 4th Annual General Meeting of the Crop Science Association of Tanzania (CROSAT), held under the theme "Advancing Climate-Resilient Crop Productivity through Sustainable Soil and Water Management Practices."
The publication also highlights the vital contributions of smallholder farmers and women cultivators to agricultural progress worldwide.
Prof Ndunguru, a distinguished molecular plant virologist, received the Presidential Medal for Scientific Discoveries and Research Excellence in 2012 and the National Award for Best Agricultural Research Scientist in 2011.
With more than two decades of experience in agricultural research, he has led several major scientific initiatives, including a $9.4 million project focused on disease diagnostics for sustainable cassava productivity in Africa.
