Livestock Ministry Launches National Poultry Development Strategy To Boost Chicken Production In Tanzania
DODOMA: Tanzania has in recent years witnessed a sharp increase in demand for chicken meat, driven by increased population, urbanization and vast consumer preference.
According to experts, chicken white meat is a healthy choice because it provides lean protein, low fat, and key B vitamins, but also, it helps build muscle, manage weight, and support overall body health.
To meet the skyrocketing demand for this popular meat in Tanzania, the Government through the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, has introduced a tailor – made national strategy aimed at boost the performance of the sector.
Christened “The National Poultry Development Strategy” (NPDS), the ten-year initiative will work to advance key areas within the sector.
These, include the development, production and availability of improved chicken breeds, feeds and useful vaccinations.
The strategy was launched by Prime Minister, Dr Mwigulu Nchemba during the opening of this year’s Nane Nane International Exhibition in Dodoma Capital City.
Speaking shortly after the launch, the premier said introduction of the strategy is projected to bring about the eagerly- awaited transformation in the sector.
He observed that, the strategy which aligns with the National Development Vision 2050 and the ruling CCM party’s manifesto, has been well designed to help boost production and productivity in the white- meat hatching sector, while also promoting value addition.
“This strategy, among other things, will push for the establishment of modern chicken slaughterhouses, which are vital facilities for ensuring meat safety to consumers, and addition value to chicken products,” he noted.
He commended the parent ministry for coming up with the strategy, insisting that the poultry sector plays a key role in advancing nutrition and households income.
“In Tanzania, chickens are considered a vital symbol for families dwelling in the central zone regions of Singida and Dodoma. These regions are famous for chickens keeping,” he said.
He assured that the Government under the patriotic leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan will continue to accelerate adequate financial and technical support to the parent ministry and it’s institutions with an eye to improving the livestock sector in Tanzania.
For his part, the Minister of Livestock and Fisheries, Ambassador Dr Bashiru Ally Kakurwa, observed that despite playing meaningful role in improving nutrition, health and incomes, the poultry sector in Tanzania had not been prioritized or formalized.
“Available statistics show that a huge percent of households in both rural and urban areas of Tanzania are engaging in chicken rearing. Therefore, the Government has realized the Importance of formalizing this sector for better results,” he expressed.
He noted that, the increase in Tanzania’s livestock population, including chickens, from 92.8 million in 2024/25 to over 113.36 million in 2025/26 have compelled the ministry to shift away from marketing livestock in raw form.
Dr Kakurwa added that the ministry has introduced a profitable system aimed at promoting value addition to meat and other related products before exportation.
In Tanzania, the poultry sector engages 2.4 million households and stands as the backbone of Tanzania’s white meat economy, producing both protein-rich eggs and chicken meat.