Tanzania - Wheat Project Flashcards
Is the wheat project a current or past attempt?
Past attempt.
True or false? America aided Tanzania in this project.
False, it was Canada.
How much aid was provided by Canada and during when?
$95 million of aid between 1968 and 1993.
When did the need for food security in the 20th century become important?
During the droughts in 1973-74.
How much of Tanzania’s maize and wheat were imported?
90% of its maize and 80% of its wheat.
Why might this project be controversial?
The Barabaigs (a nomadic tribe) were living in the Hanang Plains at the time, and they were forced off the land, causing conflict. People say their villages were burned down and their people were beaten and imprisoned, threatening the lives of around 40,000 people.
Why do some people say this was a success?
1) It provided 60% of Tanzania’s wheat.
2) 121 Tanzanians received training in wheat production.
3) 150 mechanics gained skills in maintaining farm machinery.
4) Up to 400 people worked on the farms.
5) Road, rail and electricity connections were improved.
6) In the 1992 drought, Tanzania was the only southern African country not to rely on food aid.
Why do some people say this was a failure?
1) The yield was low and it would’ve been cheaper to import wheat.
2) Only 1 crop was grown, so biodiversity and soil fertility decreased.
3) After harvesting, rain washed the top soil away.
4) Most Tanzanians eat maize and can’t afford bread made from wheat. Low technology maize production could have been better.
5) Tanzania couldn’t afford spare parts and fuel for tractors & combine-harvesters. Many were used for spare parts or just rusted since they were unused.
6) Tanzania had to buy spare parts from Canada. The biggest winners were the Canadian manufacturers.
7) Only a few jobs were created.
8) The food security of the Barabaigs got worse.
What did the wheat production and yield look like from 1967-1993?
Production increased while yield fluctuated.
