Morogoro, July 2025 — The Kilombero Community Charitable Trust (KCCT), in collaboration with Kilombero Sugar Company Limited (KSCL), has achieved a major milestone through its Elimu Tija initiative, successfully training and certifying 734 sugarcane farmers across 17 AMCOS in the Kilombero Valley.
This transformative program provided structured training aimed at enhancing productivity, financial literacy, environmental stewardship, and modern sugarcane farming practices. All 734 participants completed five comprehensive training modules and were awarded certificates in recognition of their dedication and achievement.
At the closing ceremony, the Guest of Honour, represented by Ms. Pilly Kitwana, Director of Ifakara Town Council, stated: “I commend KCCT and Kilombero Sugar Company for their meaningful investment in farmer education. This training offers more than knowledge—it lays the foundation for real transformation in the lives of our people. The government remains committed to supporting these critical efforts for the development of Kilombero’s communities.”
Mr. Guy Williams, Managing Director of Kilombero Sugar and the program’s main sponsor, emphasized the long-standing commitment of KCCT: “KCCT has been active for over 25 years, and Kilombero Sugar continues to be a key partner in supporting its mission to improve livelihoods in the Kilombero Valley. I congratulate all the farmers on completing the training and encourage them to apply the knowledge gained to enhance their farming practices.”
Mr. Derick Stanley, Chair of the KCCT Board, highlighted the growing demand for farmer education:
“KCCT has been working tirelessly for over 25 years alongside stakeholders, with Kilombero Sugar as a key partner. We call upon other stakeholders to join us in empowering the community. With the upcoming K4 expansion project, farmers have a unique opportunity to adopt best practices and benefit from increased cane demand.”
Mr. Pierre Redinger, Director of Kilombero Growers at Kilombero Sugar, added: “Empowering farmers with practical skills is the most effective way to drive long-term change in agriculture. We’ve seen an overwhelming response and a hunger for learning. Now, we look forward to seeing improved productivity and vertical expansion in sugarcane farming.”
Ms. Willa Haonga, Acting Manager of KCCT, explained that the training was delivered through five structured modules, in collaboration with partners supporting environmental education, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship.
Farmers who benefited from the program expressed their appreciation and called for the continuation of such initiatives. They recommended the establishment of demonstration plots and the provision of learning materials to support hands-on learning and improve agricultural practices.