Tapping the Potential of Agriculture Transformation in Tanzania Under the BBT-YIA Program: the Case of Organic Waste Management

Abstract

This study assess the available potential that can be tapped from organic waste generated under the BBT-YIA program. The study motivated by the ongoing Agriculture transformation in the Tanzania which aimed at increasing: the area under block farming; area under irrigation; and agriculture sector growth from currently, 41,000 acres to one million acres, 10% to 50% and 4% to 10% by 2030 respectively. However, every step of agricultural production, transportation, and processing generates wastes. Ineffective management of such waste cause social, economic and environmental concern. Despite that, there is potential of turning such waste into valuable resources. The study analyses the available potential that can be tapped from organic waste mostly crop residues generated in the block farms. The methodology involved purposeful selection of the Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, Ministry of Energy and Local Government authorities. Interviews, direct observations and documentary reviews were part of data collection techniques and the collected data were analysed using descriptive analysis. The findings show that the BBT-YIA program has a potential of producing 200,000 tons of animal feed annually; 14,129 tons of compost per month; creating about 56,490 jobs through organic waste recycling; generating 1.44 MW of electricity per day; and reducing Greenhouse gas by diverting 734,375 tons of crop residue disposal sites. The study recommends; establishment of biomass plants; organic waste recycling program; and compost production initiatives.