By Paul Kasembo, SHY RS
Shinyanga Regional Commissioner, Hon. Anamringi Macha, has urged small-scale traders to shift their focus, skills, and capital towards agricultural value addition as a more sustainable and profitable business model. He noted that many small businesses are not growing at the expected pace, emphasizing that agriculture remains the most secure and reliable economic avenue.
RC Macha made these remarks on February 14, 2025, while launching and distributing digital identification cards to 172 small-scale traders. The event, held at the Regional Commissioner’s Office conference hall in Shinyanga, was attended by various government officials, informal sector representatives, and their members.
"I urge small-scale traders in Shinyanga to shift from common urban businesses and instead invest in value addition to agricultural products. Even starting with horticulture can bring substantial income," said RC Macha.
He cited the success story of the Jipage Group from Kishapu Ward, Kishapu District, which ventured into horticulture farming. In 2023, they cultivated and harvested 11,000 watermelons, generating TZS 22 million in revenue and making a TZS 11 million profit after deducting operational costs. In 2024, they expanded their farming, producing 25,000 watermelons that earned them TZS 75 million, with a net profit of TZS 48 million after expenses.
The launch of digital ID cards for small-scale traders in Shinyanga is part of President Samia Suluhu Hassan's directive to the relevant ministry to streamline trader identification and integrate systems for easier access to business support and funding. The initiative aims to boost economic empowerment for small traders and simplify government support mechanisms.
Speaking on behalf of the traders, Shinyanga Regional Machinga Chairman, Mr. Mupinda Bwesa, expressed deep gratitude to President Samia Suluhu Hassan for her continued support of small businesses. He highlighted that, in addition to digital IDs, the government has facilitated the construction of traders' offices in all regions, including Shinyanga.
"We are grateful to President Samia for valuing and supporting us. These digital IDs will open more business opportunities for us, and we pray for her continued leadership to serve all Tanzanians, including us, the informal sector traders," said Bwesa.
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