The scheme started in 1960 and it became a government parastatal called Sugar Development co-operation in 1968.
Today, it employs over 46,000 workers and it contributes 40% of the total sugar production in Tanzania.
It has mainly encouraged the development of out-growers’ schemes.
Aims of Kilombero valley irrigation scheme
- To control flooding of river Kilombero and Ruaha in the area.
- To reclaim the fertile land for farming along River Kilombero.
- To open up the remote areas of southern Tanzania economically.
- To diversify the economy of the area, especially the out-growers to ensure a constant flow of income.
