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By Newz.Africa Africa Desk | Dar es Salaam, Tanzania | 05 February 2026 | Tanzania begins drone use
Prime Minister Mwigulu L. Nchemba launched a national drone programme on 3 February 2026 in Dar es Salaam. The move aims to boost farm productivity and pest control during the Africa Conference on Sustainable Agricultural Mechanization. The Tanzania Daily News reported technical details and the list of partner agencies.
Tanzania begins drone use in agriculture
The launch took place at the conference opening on 3 February 2026. At this event, the prime minister unveiled the mechanisation strategy. He also showcased drone use. FAO said the conference runs from 3 to 6 February and will highlight mechanisation across the continent.
Tanzania Daily News reported that the new crop-spraying drones can cover 3.5 acres in about 10 minutes. Each tank holds 60 litres of liquid or 60 kilograms of dry product. The paper also said a single drone can treat an eight-metre swathe while operating.
How the drone rollout links to national policy and partners
The programme was presented alongside Tanzania’s National Agricultural Mechanization Strategy 2026–2036. The prime minister launched it at the same session, FAO reported. The goal is to scale mechanisation while involving women and youth in service delivery.
The drones were handed to the Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute. This involved collaboration with the Tanzania Cashew Board. It also included the Authority for Regulation of Grains and Mixed Crops. Additionally, the Department of Agricultural Tools under the Ministry of Agriculture participated. This information is according to the Daily News.
Officials emphasised that the drone programme does more than just improve farm productivity. It shows Tanzania’s commitment to modernising agriculture. This is aligned with global sustainability goals. By integrating advanced technology into everyday farming, the initiative is expected to reduce labour costs. It is also anticipated to improve crop yields. Furthermore, it aims to strengthen food security. Stakeholders at the conference noted that this rollout positions Tanzania as a regional leader in mechanisation. It sets an example for neighbouring countries to follow.
Original reporting
- Original reporting: Verified the launch via Tanzania Daily News coverage and FAO media material. Reviewed the Tanzania Ministry of Agriculture event advisory. Key technical claims (spray area, tank capacity, swathe width) were reported by Tanzania Daily News. FAO confirmed the launch of the national mechanisation strategy at the same opening session.
- Primary artefact: Tanzania Daily News report “Tanzania embarks on the use of drones to increase agricultural productivity”, 3 February 2026.
- Supporting artefact: FAO newsroom item on the conference and the launch of Tanzania’s National Agricultural Mechanization Strategy, 3 February 2026.
Sources:
- Tanzania Daily News— “Tanzania embarks on the use of drones to increase agricultural productivity”, 3 February 2026
- FAO Newsroom — “Africa launches push to close agricultural mechanization gap as landmark conference begins”, 3 February 2026
- Tanzania Ministry of Agriculture — event advisory for the Africa Conference on Sustainable Agricultural Mechanization — 30 January 2026
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