In a powerful step toward more inclusive and community-led development, the Forest and Farm Facility (FFF), with support from FAO, held a landmark Training of Trainers (ToT) workshop on Communication for Development (ComDev) in Arusha from 24–29 March 2025.
The workshop brought together 15 representatives from five Tanzanian Forest and Farm Producer Organizations (FFPOs): Mtandao wa Vikundi vya Wakulima Mkoa wa Arusha (MVIWAARUSHA), Mtandao wa Vikundi vya Wakulima Mkoa wa Manyara (MVIWAMA), Tanzania Tree Growers Association Union (TTGAU), Mtandao wa Jamii wa Usimamizi wa Misitu Tanzania (MJUMITA), and Mtandao wa Wakulima (MAYAWA).
Led by seasoned facilitators Rex Chapota (FAO FFF ComDev Consultant) and George Vilili (Farm Radio Trust), the training equipped participants with practical skills to assess communication needs, design participatory strategies, and use tools like radio, group dialogue, and community media for grassroots engagement. A field visit to the MVIWAARUSHA Farmers’ Centre in Karatu offered participants a real-world example of ComDev in action—demonstrating how local voices and shared learning can drive change.
As newly trained ComDev Champions, these leaders will now support two additional FFPOs in their regions, applying what they’ve learned through mentorship and hands-on engagement. This marks the beginning of a broader movement to embed participatory communication at the heart of rural development in Tanzania.
🎥 Watch the video below to experience the training highlights and hear from the Champions themselves as they share their hopes for more empowered, connected communities.