Diaspora reconnects to explore heritage, Investment Opportunities

DAR ES SALAAM: MORE than 58 South Indian descendants born in Tanzania have returned to their birth country—not only to rediscover their heritage but also to explore new opportunities in tourism, business, and cultural exchange.

The group, part of the East African Malayalee Makkals (EAMM), represents a historically significant community of Malayalees people of Kerala origin—who migrated to East Africa, particularly Tanzania, during the early to mid-20th century.

The individuals left the country four decades ago due to various reasons and settled in countries of United States, United Kingdom, Canada, India, Singapore, and Australia , have now returned after 40 years.

However, their return marked by emotional homecomings, cultural rediscovery, and a series of strategic meetings with stakeholders.

“This journey is more than nostalgia,” said Mr Jimmy Varghese, a Canada-based businessman born in Dar es Salaam, who returned to the country for the first time in six decades.

The trip, organised by Rickshaw travel-Arusha, a local travel agency is focused to strengthen historical ties and assess investment prospects, aligns with the government’s broader efforts to engage its diaspora in national development.

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In recent years, the country has tapped into heritage tourism as a vehicle for economic transformation, recognising the value of cultural connections in building sustainable development.

To support this, the government established the diaspora engagement and opportunities division, which coordinates policies aimed at encouraging diaspora participation in sectors such as tourism, trade, and infrastructure.

One key strategy is the development of tourism clusters and heritage circuits across the country. These initiatives not only promote Tanzania’s rich cultural legacy but also aim to drive job creation and community-based development.

In addition, Dr Devika Maheswari, a healthcare worker in Scotland, UK born in Dar es Salaam, described her return as both a personal tribute and a professional opportunity.

“Our ties with this country never faded. It is more than just a place for me,” She said.

The EAMM return trip also included a safari holiday through iconic destinations like Serengeti and Ngorongoro National Parks, along with visits to Kilimanjaro and Dar es Salaam—many of which were emotional journeys to childhood homes and familiar landmarks.