Tanzania Food Systems Resilience Program

Adaptation Need

Climate adaptation is critical considering that climate-induced deficits of key food staples like maize, beans, and cassava are expected to increase by 2 to 3 times between 2030 and 2050. In 2023, it was estimated that between 35 and 70 percent of cropland in several areas of northeastern Tanzania (particularly districts in the Tanga, Kilimanjaro, Arusha, and Pwani regions) was affected by severe drought, with likely substantial crop production shortfalls. Similarly, below-average estimates of crop harvests were expected in several unimodal rainfall areas due to prolonged dry spells at the beginning of the year. This, along with the outbreak of pests, including Fall Armyworm and Quelea birds, further highlights the urgent need for adaptation solutions.

GCA’s Added Value

GCA is undertaking two studies to strengthen the integration of digital climate-informed advisory services (DCAS) in the m-Kilimo platform operated by the Ministry of Agriculture of Tanzania to enhance access to climate advisories and e-extension by smallholder farmers; and informing efforts to enhance uptake of climate-resilient seed varieties by smallholder farmers in consultation with CGIAR Centers. The studies, which are expected to be completed by December 2025, are tailored to support the Ministry of Agriculture in meeting disbursement-linked targets while also contributing to wider sectoral systemic reforms that will enhance longer-term resilience outcomes.