Tanzania’s cashew nut board announces triumph over illegal ‘Kangomba’ trade with fair auctions, enhanced market prices

TANZANIA— The Cashewnut Board (CBT) in Tanzania has credited the introduction of the cashew nut market auctions for the elimination of exploitative and illegal cashew nut trade, locally known as ‘Kangomba,’ particularly in the southern regions of the country.

At a press conference held in Dar es Salaam, CBT Director General Francis Alfred underscored the significance of the cashew nut market auctions as a strategic initiative aimed at liberating cashew nut farmers from the clutches of unscrupulous cashew traders.

Mr. Alfred emphasized that the initiative was designed to protect the interests of the cashew nut market, ensuring that farmers receive fair compensation for their hard work and dedication to cashew production.

He pointed out that Tanzania offers competitive prices for cashews compared to other African cashew-producing nations.

“Benin sells cashews at 0.66 US dollars (about 1,650 Tanzanian shillings) per kilogram, Nigeria at 0.58 US dollars (about 1,450 Tanzanian shillings), and Burkina Faso at 0.42 US dollars (about 1,050 Tanzanian shillings),” he said.

“In Tanzania, the price ranges between 1,900 and 2,190 Tanzanian shillings per kilogram of cashew.”

In addition, he highlighted that Tanzania is among the highest-paying countries for cashew nuts, which reflects the government’s commitment to supporting cashew nut farmers.

He further elaborated that the cost of cashew production per kilogram is 1,450 Tanzanian shillings, with a government subsidy of 800 Tanzanian shillings provided. This ensures that farmers operate without incurring losses.

He added that the transportation cost per kilogram ranges from 30 to 35 Tanzanian shillings, ensuring that farmers’ expenses do not exceed 300 Tanzanian shillings.

“The government’s long-term goal is to ensure that all cashews are processed within the country by 2030, promoting value addition and creating more economic opportunities for Tanzanians,” he added.

Regarding the illegal cashew nut trade known as “Kangomba,” Mr. Alfred emphasized that it was an exploitative market, and the government introduced the new auction procedure to put an end to such unregulated practices, allowing for a more transparent and fairer marketplace for cashew nut farmers.

Meanwhile, CBT has announced that all cashews from southern regions, including Mtwara and Lindi, will now be shipped through the Mtwara Port.

The board’s director noted that there is a monthly schedule for ships in November, facilitating the transportation of cashews through this port.

“We have allowed the transportation of cashews through the Mtwara port due to improvements made by the government at the port,” he stated, underscoring the government’s commitment to supporting the cashew industry and ensuring its continued growth and sustainability.

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