DODOMA: THE government through the Cashewnut Board of Tanzania has started the construction of an industrial park which will accommodate cashew nut processing factories to add value to the cash crop.
The Deputy Minister for Agriculture, David Silinde further told the Parliament on Wednesday that the government has commenced the implementation of the Cashew Nut Processing Factories project in the village of Maranje in Mtwara Region.
“As of June 10, 2024, the valuation of the project area of 1,572 acres has been completed, including compensation payments to the citizens,” said Mr Silinde, while responding to a question from Agnes Hokororo (Special Seats, CCM).
The MP inquired about the timeline for the construction of the cashewnut industrial park in Maranje Nanyamba, as pledged by President Samia Suluhu Hassan during her visit to Mtwara Region.
Responding, the Deputy Minister said the government has allocated 7.5bn/- to the Cashewnut Board of Tanzania for the infrastructure construction in an area of 354 acres out of 1,572 acres.
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“The activities carried out so far include clearing the area, starting the drilling of water wells, and extending electricity to the area. Additionally, a contractor has been selected to construct internal gravel roads and build two prototype warehouses and a cashew nut processing factory in the area.
Mr Silinde revealed further that the Government through the Cashewnut Board has already begun discussions with domestic and foreign investors to establish valueadded cashew nut processing factories in the area.
Ms Hokororo expressed gratitude to the government for promptly compensating citizens who will make way for the cashewnut industrial park project.
Mr Silinde noted that women currently engaged in cashewnut processing will be the primary beneficiaries of the project. He emphasized that the construction of a health centre will be included as a component in the project.
The construction of the cashew industrial park aimed at ensuring that Tanzania no longer exports raw cashew nuts.
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