Arusha envisions the benefits of the IPU meeting, AFCON finals

ARUSHA: Arusha region is gearing up to host the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) meeting in August this year, a move expected to boost trade and tourism due to the presence of hundreds of parliamentarians from the globe in the region.

Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Paul Makonda, who is also the Arusha MP, made the statement today, March 9, 2026, stating that the meeting provides an opportunity to promote Tanzania internationally as a safe country with a favorable investment environment.

Additionally, he stressed that the presence of the visitors will stimulate economic activities in Arusha through services, tourism, and trade.

Arusha is also one of the locations scheduled to host the AFCON 2027 tournament, making the IPU meeting a key step in attracting investors ahead of the games and in preparing the city to welcome international guests when the tournament takes place.

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Moreover, he said that ongoing investment in Arusha City largely depends on the availability of high-quality infrastructure that enables economic activities to grow.

“Many investors who choose to invest in Arusha do so with the expectation that the government will continue improving road infrastructure and essential services to facilitate business and social activities,” he said.

Furthermore, the minister announced plans to upgrade the road connecting Moshi and Arusha into an eight-lane highway, a project expected to be implemented through a public-private partnership (PPP).

He said the upgrade will help open up the Northern Zone’s economy by facilitating the movement of people, goods, and tourists.

Mr Makonda said that the road will allow ordinary vehicles to use standard lanes while express lanes will be provided for faster vehicles to reduce congestion.

According to the minister, the improved infrastructure will easily connect key areas such as Kilimanjaro International Airport and towns in the region.

“Arusha continues to strengthen its position as a hub for tourism and international conferences, which increases the importance of good roads. Hundreds of trucks and tourists pass through this corridor every day, so the construction of modern infrastructure will ease transportation, boost trade, and strengthen the economy of a city already establishing itself as a center for international meetings and activities,” he said.