Netherlands, Tanzania strengthen poultry sector partnership

TANZANIA – Tanzania’s poultry industry is receiving a major boost as the Netherlands and Tanzania deepen their collaboration through the Dutch–Tanzania Poultry Knowledge Exchange seminar in Dar es Salaam. 

The event, hosted by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, brings together Dutch poultry firms, Tanzanian farmers, and key stakeholders to share practical knowledge on production efficiency, animal health, and sustainability.

In her opening remarks, Ambassador Marjo Crompvoets highlighted the strong relationship between the two countries. “The longstanding relationship between Tanzania and the Netherlands spans over four decades, with strong cooperation in trade and agribusiness,” she said.

She added, “As the new Ambassador since July 2025, it is my pleasure to welcome you to this Tanzania-Dutch Poultry Knowledge Exchange Seminar. The Netherlands’ success in the poultry sector is a result of close cooperation between businesses, academic institutions and government, something we believe can benefit Tanzania as well.”

The seminar focuses on practical lessons for medium and large-scale poultry farmers. Topics include feed management, poultry health, digital tools, and efficient processing.

Sharing knowledge and experience

Counsellor at the Netherlands Embassy, Bart Pauwels, described the event as a “valuable opportunity for Tanzanian farmers to learn directly from Dutch poultry companies, particularly on technical practices and innovative farming methods.”

“Tanzania has significant potential in the poultry sector. What’s needed now is access to the right knowledge, technology and experience to bridge the existing gap,” he said.

Sufian Zuberi Kyarua, Secretary General of the Tanzania Feed Manufacturers Association (TAFMA), welcomed the exchange as timely. 

“This seminar is a gateway for the development of the poultry sector in Tanzania. It allows us to gain critical insights that can enhance productivity and improve the livelihoods of our farmers,” he said.

He also noted that a poultry exhibition will follow the seminar, giving farmers and industry players more room to interact, discuss key issues, and shape the next steps.

Farmers see promise in collaboration

From the Lindi Region, poultry farmer Zahor Abdallah Zahor said the event has been an “eye-opener for small and medium-scale farmers to begin shifting from traditional methods to commercial poultry farming.”

“It’s about changing the mindset. With the right knowledge and tools, local farmers can adopt commercial farming practices that bring better income and long-term sustainability,” he said.

However, Zahor pointed out that many farmers still face challenges in accessing finance, although he believes that embracing modern practices and global partnerships can open new opportunities.

The seminar builds on ongoing work between the Netherlands Embassy, Tanzania’s Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, and other partners to review poultry training curricula and strengthen sector-wide skills.

The two countries’ cooperation extends beyond training. In recent months, the Netherlands has also supported regional agribusiness programs in dairy and horticulture to boost food security and create jobs.

As Tanzania moves to scale up its poultry sector, this partnership stands to improve food security, raise farmer incomes, and strengthen rural economies through knowledge sharing and sustainable production methods.

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