Tanzania Organic Cotton Organization

Uniting our efforts and ensuring engagement across all levels.

Safeguard the organic cotton industry through a cohesive approach that advocates for the collective interests.

Tanzania Organic Cotton Organization 

Established:August 2023 

Legal Status: Registered under the Tanzania Non-Governmental Act of 2002 (amended 2019) 

Our mission is to champion and safeguard the organic cotton industry through a cohesive approach that advocates for the collective interests of its varied stakeholders, from producers at the farm level to participants in the marketplace. By uniting our efforts and ensuring engagement across all levels, we aim to promote sustainable practices and foster growth within the organic cotton sector.

organic cotton industry

The Tanzania Organic Cotton Organization (TOCO) serves as the leading advocate for the organic cotton industry within the country. Our core mission is to promote and safeguard organic agriculture and trade through unified advocacy efforts that benefit our diverse members across the entire value chain, from farm to marketplace.

The organic cotton sector

TOCO cultivates and nurtures meaningful relationships with our members. We collaborate closely with key regulatory bodies in the Tanzanian include the Tanzania Cotton Board, Tanzania Cotton Association, Tanzania Research Institutes, Tanzania Plant Health and Pesticides Authority (TPHPA), and the Ministry of Agriculture.

At the heart of Tanzania

Strategically positioned at the heart of Tanzania, specifically within the Western Cotton Growing Zone where our members primarily operate, TOCO is committed to supporting the growth and sustainability of the organic cotton industry. Whether you are a current member or a supporter of our cause, we extend an open invitation and leverage.

Promote and development of organic cotton farming in Tanzania

Membership-Based Organization: TOCO is a collective of stakeholders involved in the organic cotton sector, including over 70,000 smallholder producers. This diverse membership encompasses growers, processors, certifiers, farmers’ associations, distributors, importers, exporters, consultants, and retailers, all united by a commitment to organic practices.

Advocacy and Representation: As the leading advocate for organic cotton in Tanzania, TOCO represents the interests of its members at various levels. This includes engaging with policymakers, media, and brands to promote the benefits of organic cotton and its rotational crops, ensuring that the voices of smallholder farmers are heard.

Democratic Governance;

TOCO is governed by a Board of Directors that is democratically elected by its members. This structure ensures that the organization remains accountable to its members and reflects their needs and priorities.

Promoting Sustainable Practices: TOCO actively encourages sustainable farming practices among its members. This includes

Crop Rotations: Promoting the cultivation of diverse crops to enhance soil health and reduce pest pressures.

Conservation Agriculture: Implementing practices that protect the soil and environment, such as minimal tillage and cover cropping.

Soil Moisture Management: Educating farmers on techniques to retain soil moisture, which is crucial for crop resilience, especially in the face of climate change.

Water Source Conservation: Advocating for practices that protect and manage water resources sustainably

Biodiversity: Promoting biodiversity is essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems, supporting food security, and enhancing resilience to climate change.

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TOCO facilitates networking among its members, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing. This collective approach helps members learn from each other’s experiences and best practices, strengthening the organic cotton community