Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute

Mr. Theobard Stephano Chagga is a Research Assistant at the Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI), specializing in wheat variety research and development. He holds a Master’s degree in Environmental Sciences and Plant Protection from China Agricultural University and a Bachelor of Science in Horticulture from Sokoine University of Agriculture. With both international training and field-based experience, Mr. Chagga is committed to developing sustainable solutions that address the challenges facing Tanzania’s wheat sector.

His current work focuses on identifying, evaluating, and promoting improved wheat varieties that are tolerant to drought and diseases, and that perform reliably across diverse agro-ecological zones. These efforts aim to enhance climate resilience and ensure stable wheat production in the face of growing environmental challenges.

In addition to varietal research, Mr. Chagga is actively involved in promoting good agronomic practices among smallholder farmers. Through field demonstrations, farmer training sessions, and stakeholder outreach programs, he supports the adoption of improved practices including proper land preparation, seed rate optimization, timely planting, integrated pest management, and effective post-harvest handling. This integrated approach helps farmers increase yields, strengthen food security, and build resilience against climate-related stressors.

Mr. Chagga brings practical skills in experimental design, plant protection, crop physiology, and research-extension linkages. He has participated in key national and regional initiatives, including:

• Empowering Youth in Climate Policy and Action for Green Job Creation in Food Systems (FARA, AGRA, TARI, YPARD),
• Seed Growers and Stakeholders Training (AGRA, USAID, TARI),
• Farmer Training on Wheat Agronomic Practices (TARI).