Community Perception of Foreign Agricultural Investment in Silverland Limited in Iringa District-Tanzania

Abstract

The global surge in investor interest in agricultural land and water resources has been propelled by the aftermath of the 2008 food crisis, giving rise to the "land grab" perception. Consequently, private investments, particularly in agriculture, have increased, impacting local communities. Amid this trend, concerns have arisen over the potential negative repercussions of extensive land acquisitions, necessitating an understanding of communities' perceptions regarding foreign agricultural investments. This study examined community awareness of the current investor, attitudes towards their activities, expectations, and the execution of corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. Employing a case study design, four villages neighbouring Silverland Tanzania Limited (STL), namely Ihemi, Ifunda, Bandabichi, and Muwimbi, were strategically chosen. Data collection involved 99 community members through questionnaires, focus group discussions, in-depth interviews, and insights from key informants. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, encompassing frequencies and percentages, while qualitative data underwent content analysis. The findings revealed an informed community familiar with the investor and their operations. Notably, the community held unfavourable perceptions of STL's activities, highlighting unmet expectations. The study also underscored the community's scepticism toward STL's CSR initiatives. Due to their limited involvement, community members harboured opposing viewpoints toward foreign agricultural investments. The study recommends proactive engagement by the central government to encourage increased community participation in decisions related to foreign agricultural investments. Additionally, STL should recognize that successful foreign investments hinge on a mutually beneficial relationship with the host community, necessitating improved technical knowledge, fair compensation, employee training, and engagement with out-grower farmers.