‘UDSM Lindi campus to spur growth’

LINDI: FORMER President Dr Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete has said that the construction of the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) campus in Lindi Region presents a transformative opportunity to elevate the region’s status and drive sustainable development, particularly in the areas of education, agriculture, livestock and food technology.

Dr Kikwete, who is also the Chancellor of UDSM, made the remarks recently during a visit to the construction site in Ngongo Ward, Lindi Municipality, Lindi Region.

He said the investment, worth over 8 million US dollars, will spark a knowledge revolution among the youth in the region by equipping them with practical skills that will empower them to become self-reliant.

“We have chosen to establish an agriculture-focused campus here in Lindi, where young people will be trained in agriculture, livestock and food technology. These programmes will be delivered right here, laying a strong foundation for building local expertise in agriculture. Congratulations to the people of Lindi for this significant step forward. This is a major opportunity to uplift the region’s image and development,” he said.

He added, “This campus will be a catalyst for development. It will offer hands-on education that builds youth capacity for self-employment and will contribute directly to the local economy.”

He said the project is part of the implementation of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s directive to expand higher education to underserved regions.

“Under the President’s guidance, the University of Dar es Salaam was tasked with extending its reach to regions that lack higher learning institutions. Lindi and Kagera were prioritised,” he said.

With funding from the World Bank’s Higher Education for Economic Transformation (HEET) initiative, Lindi and Kagera were prioritised, each allocated 8 million US dollars from a total funding envelope of 49 million US dollars.

Also, another 8 million US dollars has been earmarked to strengthen the Marine Education College in Zanzibar.

Dr Kikwete also urged local authorities, especially the municipal council, to seize the opportunity by ensuring proper land use planning around the campus site.

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“I advise the municipal council to act early. Whenever major institutions are developed, people are naturally drawn to settle nearby, often building without a plan. It’s essential that the municipality begins surveying and allocating designated plots for businesses, housing, schools and essential services. If we delay and allow unplanned development, we risk creating informal settlements that may later require demolition to pave the way for proper urban planning,” he warned.

He said that more than 600 students are expected to enroll at the campus once it becomes operational, which will drive demand for goods and services outside the institution.

He called on the local community to prepare for the socioeconomic opportunities that lie ahead.

“This is the moment to act—during the construction phase. Once the campus is complete, it will welcome over 600 students. Their daily needs— including food, transportation, accommodation and other services—will have to be met by the surrounding community. This isn’t the university’s responsibility; it’s an opportunity for the community to benefit economically and socially. If we plan wisely now, we can all reap the benefits,” he said.