In a groundbreaking step toward agricultural transformation and international cooperation, the Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) and the Council Exchange Board of Trade (CEBOT) officially signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today, launching a bold new chapter in sustainable AgTech innovation, trade, and workforce development.
The MoU establishes SUA as the national and continental hub for the Umoja AgTech Alliance, an ambitious, multi-year initiative designed to drive innovation across Tanzania’s agriculture sector and beyond. This strategic partnership connects African and U.S. institutions, with a focus on applying cutting edge technologies, empowering farmers and students, and expanding access to global markets.
“This partnership is more than just an agreement. It's a shared commitment to building the future of agriculture in Africa,” said Prof. Raphael Chibunda, Vice Chancellor of SUA. “By combining SUA’s deep research capacity with CEBOT’s global innovation network, we’re positioning Tanzania as a leader in digital agriculture, trade, and sustainable development.”
Key components of the MoU include:
Launch of the Umoja AgTech Innovation Lab at SUA
Creation of the Africa Ag Hub for regional research and policy alignment
Joint academic exchange programs with U.S. universities, particularly Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)
Digital certification and AI upskilling for students, farmers, and faculty
Farmer-centered supply chain and connectivity pilot programs
Karl Cureton, CEO of CEBOT, emphasized the global potential of the partnership:
“Together, we’re aligning innovation with opportunity from the fields of Tanzania to the global market. This is a model for equitable, tech-driven growth in Africa’s agriculture sector.”
The MoU aligns with Tanzania’s Agriculture Master Plan 2050 and the National Ecological Organic Agriculture Strategy, with early implementation already underway through a 90-day action plan and pilot programs.
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