Tanzania:TAHA Empowers People with Disabilities in Horticulture and Agribusiness

By Adonis Byemelwa

People with disabilities in Tanzania’s northern zone are discovering new opportunities in horticulture, thanks to a program launched by the Tanzania Horticultural Association (TAHA) as part of its 20th anniversary celebrations. This initiative is changing how the industry sees disability, not as a barrier, but as a unique strength.

Yesterday,28^th May, 2025, at Point Zone Hotel in Arusha, a conference titled "Exploring Horticultural Opportunities for People with Disabilities" brought together diverse voices, all focused on how adaptive technologies and inclusive farming practices are opening doors for those who were often overlooked.

TAHA’s CEO, Dr. Jacqueline Mkindi, shared how the program is reshaping expectations by empowering people with disabilities to engage in every part of the horticulture value chain—from planting seeds to processing crops.

Dr. Mkindi spoke passionately about the vision behind the initiative. She explained that this is about more than just creating jobs—it’s about restoring dignity, building skills, and enabling people to take pride in meaningful, rewarding work.

 “We want to create millionaires,” she said, “not just workers.” Her plans to establish demonstration farms owned and operated by people with disabilities are designed to be living classrooms, teaching climate-smart agriculture and the latest technologies to anyone eager to learn.

This program stands out because it’s built on strong partnerships with the World Food Programme (WFP), Trias East Africa, and AGRA. Together, they aim to demonstrate that disability is never an inability. The goal is to create role models—champions within horticulture who inspire others and prove what is possible.

Hearing from beneficiaries like Nicodemus Zakayo, Dora Shoo, and Florian Kanjanika brings a deeply human element to the story. Their gratitude and hopeful calls for the program to reach every corner of Tanzania highlight how inclusion can transform lives, not only by providing opportunities but by fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.

Ms. Joyce Tesha, representing WFP, applauded TAHA’s leadership, expressing eagerness to continue their collaboration to promote equality in the horticulture sector. Ms. Neema Mollel of TRIAS East Africa echoed this commitment, emphasizing that the program aligns perfectly with their mission to ensure no one is left behind.

Government officials and community development officers from Arusha, Kilimanjaro, and Manyara also voiced strong support. Their recognition of the program’s potential to uplift individuals and communities alike adds momentum to TAHA’s efforts, signaling a shared dedication to making the initiative succeed and expand.

Ultimately, TAHA’s program is more than a new project—it’s a movement that’s rewriting the narrative about disability and agriculture in Tanzania. By creating spaces where people with disabilities can thrive, TAHA is showing how horticulture can be a source of empowerment, pride, and economic growth for everyone.