The government of Zanzibar has encouraged investors and farmers to focus on the horticultural industry to capitalise on the Isle’s fertile land.

Agricultural stakeholders have also been reminded of the importance of taking advantage of the Abeid Amani Karume International Airport.

The deputy minister for Agriculture, Mr Mohamed Dimwa, said this earlier this week in the House of Representatives when responding to a question from a Special Seats representative, Ms Wanu Hafidh Ameir.

The House of Reresentatives is currently meeting in Zanzibar for  an ordinary calendar year session.

Mr Dimwa said that despite the fact that Zanzibar has favourable land for horticulture farming,  many residents have failed to embark on it due to lack of capital.

“Flowers and other horticulture farming products such as  fruits can flourish really well in the Isles because the climate favours their growth, “ he said.

However, he said, the problem has been lack of capital among farmers. “So, I call on investors to put money in it,” he said.

Apart from the favourite climate, Mr Dimwa said, horticulture produce will easily be exported through the Abeid Aman Karume International Airport.

Ms Ameir sought to know what the government was doing to improve horticulture farming in the Isles, which has played a crucial role in reducing poverty in other countries.

“I want to know what the government is doing to empower farmers in the Isles so that they can venture in horticulture which has played a big role in reducing poverty in other countries,” said Ms Ameir.

Source: The Citizen