Indonesia and Tanzania Collaborate to Develop Palm Oil Genetic Resources
The Tanzanian Ambassador to Indonesia, Macocha Moshe Tembele, has emphasised the importance of international collaboration in developing the palm oil industry, particularly through the release of palm oil genetic resources (SDG). According to him, cross-country cooperation is a key factor in strengthening innovation and productivity in the agricultural sector.
On Tuesday (5 May 2026), Tembele attended the release of Tanzanian-origin palm oil SDG at Tanah Besih Garden in Serdang Bedagai Regency, North Sumatra.
Tembele stated that the release of palm oil SDG is not only a scientific activity but also a symbol of partnership between Indonesia and Tanzania in developing the agricultural sector.
“We are not just releasing genetic resources, but also celebrating science and partnership. This is a story of collaboration between two friendly countries separated by the Indian Ocean but united by shared goals,” said Tembele.
Tembele views inter-country cooperation as a real solution to facing various global challenges in the agricultural and food sectors. He said that innovation will develop through the exchange of ideas, resources, and expertise between countries.
“Cooperation is not just a diplomatic slogan, but a real tool to improve community welfare,” said Tembele.
He also appreciated the collaboration of various parties in the release of the palm oil SDG, from the Indonesian Palm Oil Entrepreneurs Association (Gapki), the Ministry of Agriculture, research institutions, business actors, to the Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI).
According to him, the experience gained by Tanzanian researchers during their time in Indonesia can become important capital in developing the palm oil industry in their country.
Tembele emphasised that the release of palm oil SDG is not merely a technical agenda, but a symbol of partnership, knowledge exchange, and future opportunities for both countries. He hopes that this cooperation can increase productivity while strengthening the development of sustainable palm oil industry.
The palm oil SDG release event was also attended by Gapki officials, the Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP), the Indonesian Quarantine Agency, the North Sumatra Animal, Fish, and Plant Quarantine Centre, as well as 14 partner companies in the Indonesian palm oil germplasm plasma consortium.