The Climate Resilient Agribusiness for Tomorrow (CRAFT) project is transforming agriculture in Tanzania by equipping smallholder farmers with climate-smart agricultural (CSA) practices. Funded by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and implemented by SNV Netherlands Development Organization alongside Wageningen University, CCAFS, Agriterra, and Rabobank Partnerships, CRAFT focuses on building resilient food systems to withstand climate change challenges.
To date, CRAFT has trained over 76,000 Tanzanian smallholder farmers, with 90% adopting at least two CSA practices, which has significantly boosted income for over 40,000 farmers. By working closely with the private and public sectors, the project fosters stronger connections across the value chain, enhancing food security, income generation, and sustainability for crops like potatoes, beans, sorghum, and sunflowers.
One shining example of CRAFT’s impact is Grace Sanga, a potato farmer in Makete District, Tanzania. With 15 years of experience, Grace has embraced CRAFT’s training in climate-smart techniques, including using weather information from the Tanzania Meteorological Authority, sprinkler irrigation, and regenerative practices that enrich soil health. These innovations have elevated the quality and yield of her crops, attracting more customers and positioning her as a role model within her community.
Despite facing challenges common to women farmers, like limited access to credit and markets, Grace remains determined. "Agriculture is my main source of income and a way to contribute to my community," she says. CRAFT supports farmers like Grace by improving access to reliable markets and financial tools, empowering them to secure better prices and make informed decisions.
CRAFT is not only helping farmers grow more resilient crops but also fostering a culture of collective action and shared knowledge across Tanzania. By placing smallholder farmers at the center of climate adaptation, CRAFT is paving the way for sustainable and resilient agriculture in East Africa.
For this and more stories, read and download a collective of stories from Tanzania here Climate Resilient Agribusiness Transformation Stories from Tanzania