Sirro urges traders to tap Great Lakes markets

KIGOMA: KIGOMA Regional Commissioner, Simon Sirro, has urged traders to exploit the region’s strategic location bordering Africa’s Great Lakes countries to expand their businesses, boost profits and contribute to economic growth.

Mr Sirro made the call recently during the Kigoma Business Breakfast organised by the Tanzania National Chamber of Commerce (TNCC) and local businesspeople to explain changes in the chamber’s structure and mandate following its transformation from the former Tanzania Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (TCCIA).

In a speech delivered on his behalf by Kigoma District Commissioner Dr Rashid Chuachua, Mr Sirro said the government has taken measures to promote trade and investment in Kigoma, which serves as a potential economic and trade hub for the Great Lakes region.

He said the government has created a conducive business environment by addressing barriers to trade and investment, urging traders to seize the available opportunities and contribute to national development.

“Business is the foundation of our economy. The government has removed various trade barriers, including taxes and levies that have been hindering business growth. Traders should make good use of these improvements to expand their businesses and contribute to national development,” he said.

Earlier, TNCC Kigoma Regional Manager, Prosper Guga, said the meeting provided an opportunity for the chamber to explain its new structure and mandate to local businesspeople.

He said the engagement also allowed traders to seek clarification on the changes and understand the institution’s current responsibilities.

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Mr Guga said Kigoma was central to the government’s strategy to strengthen trade and investment with Great Lakes countries in line with the National Development Vision.

He said the meeting brought together the chamber and the business community to explore ways of implementing the strategy, improving productivity and addressing barriers to trade while ensuring inclusive participation.

TNCC Kigoma Business Development Officer, Celestine Nestory, said the meeting also aimed to educate traders on obtaining certificates of origin through an online system.

He said the system was particularly important for cross-border traders because difficulties in securing certificates of origin can limit access to foreign markets.

Mr Nestory urged traders to familiarise themselves with the online process to facilitate trade and improve their ability to compete in regional markets.