HRNS launches climate-smart coffee programme to boost productivity, farmer resilience in Tanzania
The initiative equips Tanzanian coffee farmers with climate-smart techniques and digital tools to enhance productivity and adapt to changing weather patterns.
TANZANIA – Hanns R. Neumann Stiftung (HRNS), an independent foundation dedicated to improving the livelihoods of smallholder coffee farmers, has introduced a new initiative in Tanzania aimed at helping farmers adapt to the effects of climate change.
The Coffee and Climate Programme is designed to boost coffee production while strengthening farmers’ resilience to unpredictable weather conditions. The initiative is expected to improve household incomes and contribute to Tanzania’s economic growth through sustainable coffee farming.
According to HRNS Regional Communication Specialist, Muddy Kimwery, changing weather patterns have increasingly affected coffee yields, making climate adaptation essential for quality production.
“To produce high-quality coffee, farmers need to adapt their practices to the changing weather conditions in the areas where they grow coffee. Good weather represents an opportunity for producing premium beans,” he said.
Kimwery emphasized that coffee remains one of Tanzania’s most valuable cash crops, requiring both favorable climatic conditions and informed management.
He added that the new programme focuses on promoting climate-smart agricultural practices that enhance sustainability and long-term productivity.
As part of the initiative, HRNS is training farmers on drought management, including rainwater harvesting and conservation techniques that help retain soil moisture and prevent erosion. These practices allow farmers to maintain operations even during prolonged dry seasons.
Farmers are also being encouraged to diversify their crops through intercropping—such as growing bananas alongside coffee—to improve food security and generate additional income.
To support knowledge sharing, HRNS has developed a digital tool known as the Coffee and Climate App Toolbox. The platform provides tailored information to both trainers and farmers, offering insights on sustainable farming and climate resilience.
“Trainers can use the app to enhance their knowledge and train farmers, while farmers receive up-to-date information on coffee production and coping strategies,” Kimwery explained.
HRNS Northern Zone Coordinator, Pastory Temba, noted that since 2006, HRNS projects have reached more than 57,000 coffee-farming households across Northern and Southern Tanzania.
He said these efforts have improved coffee productivity, strengthened household incomes, and promoted sustainable agricultural practices nationwide.
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