During the National and International Agricultural Exhibition (Nanenane) held at Nzuguni Grounds in Dodoma, from August 1-8, 2026, SHIWAKUTA was honoured to welcome Hon. Mizengo Pinda, Former Prime Minister of the United Republic of Tanzania, to its pavilion.

The distinguished visit provided an important opportunity to highlight the contribution and importance of agroecology in strengthening food security, while also showcasing how SHIWAKUTA has strengthened the capacity of smallholder farmers and entrepreneurs to produce safe, high-quality products that meet the various procedures and requirements of territorial and regional markets. This included capacity building on how to properly package and brand their products to ensure compliance with relevant quality and food safety standards.

In addition to gaining valuable insights from SHIWAKUTA exhibitors on the contribution of agroecology to strengthening food security in the country, Hon. Pinda explored a diverse range of indigenous seeds and value-added agroecological products.  He was particularly impressed by the diversity and market potential of these products and commended the Federation’s efforts to empower smallholder farmers to produce safe, high-quality products through sustainable agroecological practices.

Hon. Pinda encouraged SHIWAKUTA to expand its outreach so that more farmers across the country  to use agroecology practices, strengthen value addition and their livelihoods. He emphasized that investing in farmers’ knowledge, skills, and innovation is essential to building a competitive, sustainable, and food-secure Tanzania

Beyond the words of encouragement to smallholder farmers, he also supported exhibitors through purchase  agroecological products  demostrated  in a SHIWAKUTA booth.

His gesture reflected a powerful message, empowering farmers also means supporting the markets for their products.  By choosing to buy directly from SHIWAKUTA exhibitors.  Hon. Pinda demonstrated confidence in the enterprises rooted in agroecology.

Every distinguished visitor to the SHIWAKUTA pavilion reinforces a shared vision; when smallholder farmers are empowered, the nation prospers. SHIWAKUTA  remains committed  to  advancing  agroecology, protecting indigenous seeds, promoting food sovereignty and transforming Tanzania’s food systems for present and future generations.