Arusha gears up for global horticulture forum

ARUSHA: ARUSHA Regional Commissioner, Amos Makalla has pledged the government’s full support for the preparations of HortiLogistica Africa 2026, a major international horticulture investment and business forum scheduled to take place in Arusha from November 8 to 10.

Mr Makalla made the commitment yesterday after receiving a briefing on preparations for the event from Tanzania Horticultural Association (TAHA) Chief Executive Officer, Dr Jackline Mkindi, who led a delegation to his office.

The forum is expected to bring together local and international stakeholders in the fruit, vegetable and flower industries to promote investment, technology adoption, increased production and access to domestic and international markets.

Mr Makalla said the Arusha Regional Administration was ready to work closely with TAHA to ensure the forum’s success, describing it as a strategic opportunity to attract investment, create business opportunities and contribute to the growth of both the regional and national economies.

“This initiative brings together key players in the horticulture industry in Arusha and showcases Tanzania internationally. The economic benefits extend across the entire value chain, and as Regional Commissioner, I assure you of our commitment to making this forum a success,” he said.

He noted that the horticulture sector is a major source of employment, farmers’ incomes, government revenue and foreign exchange earnings through exports.

Mr Makalla added that Arusha was well placed to become a regional hub for horticulture trade and investment due to its favourable business environment, strong agricultural base and ability to attract investors and visitors from across the world.

Dr Mkindi said the forum is intended to become an annual international platform that will position Tanzania as Africa’s leading hub for horticulture trade, investment and innovation.

ALSO READ: Horticulture key to global trade, says PM

She said the event would attract international buyers, producers, exporters, investors, technology firms, logistics and cold-chain service providers, financial institutions and other industry players.

“We want to create a platform that links producers with markets and investors with opportunities in the horticulture sector, which has enormous potential to drive economic growth and increase the competitiveness of Tanzanian produce in international markets,” she said.

According to Dr Mkindi, the forum will enable stakeholders to exchange knowledge, explore new technologies, reduce post-harvest losses and improve packaging, storage and transport systems.

She added that local farmers and traders would have an opportunity to engage directly with international buyers, creating prospects for export contracts and reliable markets, while financial institutions would discuss financing options for modern production, value addition and storage infrastructure.

TAHA said preparations for the forum are progressing well in collaboration with various stakeholders, as efforts intensify to position Tanzania as a preferred destination for horticultural investment.

The event is also expected to create and expand opportunities for youth and women across the horticulture value chain, while promoting greater participation in the sector.