Audio By Carbonatix
Tanzania's President John Magufuli has rallied farmers in the country to increase food production, predicting global food scarcity later in the year caused by the effects of the coronavirus pandemic.
He urged farmers to take advantage of the reduced production by the largest food-producing countries in the wake of health restrictions imposed across the world.
"This year there is a possibility of a severe famine in the world because many people are in lockdown because of the corona, but this should not discourage us because even if they are imprisoned they still need to eat. We will grow crops that we will sell to them," he told a gathering in the north-western town of Bukoba.
The Tanzanian president has been criticised for downplaying the pandemic in the country, he has repeatedly said the health crisis had been exaggerated and mocked those who wear masks.
In June he declared that the country was "coronavirus-free" thanks to prayers by citizens.
The World Health Organization (WHO) expressed concern over the government's strategy on Covid-19.
Latest Stories
-
Ga Mantse urges mining industry to protect communities beyond the life of mines
12 minutes -
Empowerher in Upper West region
33 minutes -
Ga Mantse challenges mining stakeholders to consider long-term impact of Ghana’s mineral wealth
42 minutes -
Afenyo-Markin accuses GoldBod of mismanaging Ghana’s gold resources
42 minutes -
Non-interest banking products must meet required standards – BoG Governor to NIFAC
43 minutes -
Social licence to mine can be withdrawn – Ga Mantse warns mining companies
44 minutes -
X1 Energy Drink Division One Super Cup: Attram De Visser secure third place after late own goal
44 minutes -
‘A mine may close, but the community must not’ – Ga Mantse calls for sustainable mining
47 minutes -
UG Pro VC calls for an integrated risk management approach to tackle Ghana’s perennial flooding
53 minutes -
Parents can buy additional NaCCA-approved textbooks for children – Deputy NaCCA boss
57 minutes -
Youth must have a real voice in national issues beyond jobs, creative arts – EU
59 minutes -
AGTC: How women-led initiative is turning golf into jobs and tourism opportunities
1 hour -
Exporters call for single-digit interest rates to boost Ghana’s horticulture sector
1 hour -
Young political leaders must look beyond party lines to strengthen Ghana’s democracy – EU
1 hour -
25 female KNUST physics students receive GH¢87,500 Whittaker Foundation suppo
1 hour