USAID-TAPP monthly bulletin #

in conjunction with the Tanzania Horticultural Association (TAHA). The program aims to increase smallholder farmer incomes through enhanced productivity, crop diversification, and improved market access. TAPP is designed to address the challenges faced by smallholder farmers in Tanzania, including limited access to markets, inadequate agricultural practices, and lack of resources. One of the key interventions of TAPP is the promotion of good agricultural practices among smallholder farmers. In the Oldonyosambu area of Arusha, a USAID-TAPP demonstration plot achieved a record harvest of carrots using plastic row covers, proper spacing, and drip irrigation. The demonstration plot showed significant improvements in crop cycle, water conservation, and yield compared to a control plot. The farmers who used these practices were able to harvest eight bags of carrots, with five bags of Grade 1 quality and three bags of Grade 2 quality. TAPP has also constructed four greenhouses in Lushoto, which will be handed over to local farmer groups. The greenhouses will enable the farmers to grow high-quality vegetables and increase their production levels. In addition, TAPP has installed a pressurized drip irrigation system for members of the Zanzibar Association of People Living with HIV/AIDS (ZAPHA+). The drip irrigation system will ease the burden of watering and help grow more productive vegetable crops, contributing to the fight against the HIV/AIDS epidemic. The program has also provided training to farmer groups on bookkeeping practices, proper use and application of fertilizers, and compost preparation. These trainings aim to equip the farmers with the skills and knowledge necessary to improve their agricultural productivity and increase their incomes. Furthermore, TAPP has facilitated the Horticulture Stakeholders’ Workshop in Zanzibar, which brought together government and private institutions to discuss the future of the horticulture sector in Tanzania. In Arusha, USAID-TAPP's partner AIDS Business Council of Tanzania (ABCT) conducted a sensitization program for USAID-TAPP and TAHA peer educators. The program aimed to equip the peer educators with the skills and knowledge necessary to manage HIV/AIDS programs within their organizations. The program is part of TAPP's efforts to address the challenges faced by smallholder farmers and to promote sustainable agricultural practices in Tanzania.