Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute

TARI Ifakara is indeed making significant contributions to rice agriculture in Tanzania. The release of improved rice varieties like TARI RIC1, TARI RIC2, and TARI RIC3 is a commendable effort in addressing climate change challenges and enhancing rice production for farmers. These varieties are specifically designed to thrive in local conditions and provide better yields.

Rice production per year has increased from 1,170358 metric tone’s (2011/2012) to over 2.5 million metric tones in 2018/2019.

Current demand stands at 990 044 metric tones’ while production is estimated to be over 2.5million metric tons, whereas as of now Tanzania is moderately self-sufficient in rice growth.

It’s inspiring to see how TARI Ifakara play a crucial role in advancing agricultural practices and ensuring food security.

That was said by TARI Ifakara Researchers during the official visit of Director General of Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI) Dr. Thomas N. Bwana at TARI Ifakara Centre on 24 April 2024

Dr. Thomas N. Bwana has made a working visit at TARI Ifakara for the aim of introducing himself and see the research activities carried out at TARI Ifakara Centre and urged researchers and all staffs to continue to work professionally to come up with positive research results such as rice seeds and pledged to cooperate with all staffs regardless of his or her positions as director-general for all workers.

Specific features of new rice released varieties is:

TARI RIC 1:

Ecology:

·         Suitable for both irrigated and rain fed lowland areas.

·         Proposed elevation range: 100-1200 meters above sea level.

Plant Characteristics:

·         Semi-erect growth habit.

·         Medium plant height (100 – 110 cm).

·         Medium-late maturity (110 – 120 days).

·         High tillering capacity.

Key Merits:

·         High grain yield potential and stability in its areas of adaptation (7.3-7.9 tons/ha).

·         Aromatic with good cooking quality (stays soft after cooling).

·         Good grain quality (translucent, long bold-slender grains).

·         Resistant to lodging^.

TARI RIC2

Ecology:

·         Suited for rain-fed lowland areas.

·         Proposed elevation range: 100-1100 meters above sea level.

Plant Characteristics:

·         Semi-erect growth habit.

·         Medium plant height (105 – 120 cm).

·         Early maturing (100 – 110 days).

·         Its high tillering capacity ensures better yield potential.

Adaptation and Resilience:

·         High grain yield potential and stability in its areas of adaptation (7.7-8.4 tons/ha).

·         The variety exhibits early maturing (73 – 76 days to 50% flowering, approximately 100 – 110 days to maturity) and has a semi-erect growth habit.

·         Tolerant to drought, the variety’s tolerance to drought conditions makes it a reliable choice for farmers facing varying weather patterns.

·         Resistant to diseases such as Bacterial Leaf Blight (BLB) and Rice blast,This resistance contributes to stable yields and reduces losses due to diseases.

·         Resistant to lodging.

Quality and Cooking Characteristics:

·         TARI RIC2 produces high-quality grains with good milling properties.

·         Its aromatic nature and excellent cooking quality make it a favorite among consumers.

TARI RIC3 (TXD307):

Ecology:

·         Suitable for low to medium altitudes.

·         Production altitude range: 0-1000 meters above sea level.

Special Attributes:

·         High yielding. Seeds have the potential to produce impressive yields of 6.5 to 7 tons per hectare.

·         Quality Milling Recovery: The variety ensures a milling recovery rate of up to 70%.

·         Semi-aromatic.

·         Maturity period: 118-127 days

·         Consumer Preference: Consumers, farmers, and traders alike prefer TARI RIC3 due to its excellent grain quality.



These rice varieties are carefully developed to address various challenges faced by rice farmers, including productivity, tolerance to stresses, and overall quality.

Farmers who have adopted have witnessed improved livelihoods and increased income. The success of this rice varieties underscores the importance of research and innovation in agriculture. As we celebrate these achievements, let’s continue supporting initiatives that enhance food security and sustainable farming practices!