Assessment of the Role of Ngos in Promoting Sustainable Agriculture Development in Tanzania:

Abstract

his research employed a convergent mixed research design to examine the significant role of Non Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in advancing sustainable agricultural development within the context of RIKOLTO`S sustainable rice cultivation projects in Tanzania's Mbarali District, situated in the Mbeya region. The study engaged a total of 40 participants, comprising 35 farmers, 4 NGO officers, and 1 agriculture officer, in order to comprehensively address three primary objectives. Firstly, it evaluates the level of farmers' familiarity with Sustainable Agricultural Practices (SAPs) as implemented in the sustainable rice cultivation project. Secondly, it investigates the strategic involvement of NGOs in provisioning vital agricultural inputs to facilitate the adoption of sustainable rice cultivation methodologies. Lastly, the study elucidates the pivotal contribution of NGOs towards bolstering farmers' access to markets. The study reveals a strong awareness and active participation of farmers in Sustainable Agricultural Practices (SAPs) for rice cultivation, indicating a positive shift toward sustainability in the area. NGOs play a pivotal role by providing high-quality inputs, promoting innovative practices, and establishing effective market linkages. Farmers' satisfaction and success underscore the importance of ongoing collaboration with NGOs, highlighting their essential contribution to the sustainability, productivity, and market accessibility of rice cultivation in the region