Make it grow (MIG): sustainably growing vegetables in Zanzibar today

Members of the TAHA vegetable growers’ association – smallholder farmers in Zanzibar – have been able to demonstrably increase their income through targeted training and by introducing modern agricultural practices. The average annual household income of smallholders has risen from 4,054,000 TZS in 2021 to 5,098,000 TZS in 2024.

AHA’s tried-and-tested b|u|s training has played its part in this by helping participants to develop entrepreneurial skills and change their business thinking. In total, around 3,700 farmers have completed the three b|u|s course modules. In addition to higher in income, there has also been an increase in employment opportunities, particularly for women and young people. This has only been made possible by the tireless, dedicated work of b|u|s trainers (previously trained by AHA). TAHA now possesses a total of 29 b|u|s trainers on a permanent basis, strengthening reach and the connection between association and members. This internal capacity-building is an important component of the project’s sustainable impact. It enables the association to offer b|u|s training both internally and externally and to use this as a source of income for TAHA.

Close coordination with Trias was crucial to the success of the programme. Together, the partners ensured that measures would meet local needs and be implemented sustainably. This cooperation has also enabled the creation of stable market connections for farmers, resulting in better prices and increased demand for local products.

The success of the MIG programme in Zanzibar serves as an important blueprint for similar initiatives and underlines the importance of strong, coordinated international cooperation.

We would like to thank everyone involved and look forward to applying the knowledge gained to future projects.