The Director General of the Cashewnut Board of Tanzania (CBT), Mr. Francis Alfred, has affirmed that the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania continues to make significant efforts to develop the cashew industry and improve the livelihoods of farmers through a 100% input subsidy for cashew production. Within the four years, the value of subsidies provided has reached TZS 626 billion.
Mr. Francis outlined that in the 2021/2022 season, the subsidy amounted to TZS 59.4 billion; in 2022/2023, it increased to TZS 96.3 billion; in 2023/2024, it rose to TZS 189.3 billion; and in the 2024/2025 season, the value of subsidized inputs reached TZS 281 billion. This steady increase demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting cashew farmers.
He clarified that statutory deductions (payable to District Councils and other stakeholders) are covered by buyers and not the farmers. Farmers themselves contribute a minimal amount not exceeding TZS 100, which covers transportation costs and other contributions agreed upon at the village level.
Additionally, Mr. Francis highlighted that cashew trading is conducted through cooperative unions, a system that has strengthened the cooperative movement. Today, several cooperative unions have initiated various development projects such as the construction of processing factories, acquisition of transport vehicles, and construction of storage warehouses. These projects are owned by the farmers in their respective areas, thus contributing to local economic growth.
The Director General made these remarks on 21 July, 2025, during a press briefing at his office in Mtwara, aiming to clarify misinformation being spread by some politicians regarding the cashew industry. He emphasized that the claims being circulated do not reflect the actual situation on the ground.
