Arusha sets stage for landmark IPU Assembly

Arusha is fully prepared to host the 153rd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), with regional authorities confirming that preparations for the landmark international parliamentary meeting have been completed.

The assembly, scheduled for October 5–9, 2026, will be held at the Arusha International Conference Centre (AICC), marking the first time Tanzania hosts the major parliamentary gathering.

Arusha Regional Commissioner CPA Amos Gabriel Makalla gave the assurance on Thursday, October 1, 2026, when he met IPU Secretary General Ambassador Anda Filip at his office in Arusha.

Makalla said preparations had been underway for an extended period, with security receiving particular attention. He added that various institutions had worked together to ensure the assembly is successfully hosted and concluded.

The event is expected to bring together more than 2,000 delegates representing the IPU’s 183 member parliaments, making it a significant international gathering for Tanzania and the region.

Among those attending will be 65 Speakers of Parliament from different countries, alongside other parliamentary representatives and participants.

For Tanzania, hosting the assembly provides an opportunity to showcase its capacity to convene major international meetings while bringing global parliamentary leaders together in Arusha.

Ambassador Filip thanked the regional authorities for their warm reception and cooperation, while commending the extensive preparations made ahead of the event.

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Beyond the logistical preparations, the assembly will address a range of international issues relevant to parliaments and their members. One of the key matters will be the leadership of the IPU, including the election of a new President following the completion of Dr Tulia Ackson’s three-year term.

The gathering will also provide delegates with an opportunity to experience Tanzania beyond the conference venue. According to Ambassador Filip, participants will have opportunities to visit some of the country’s tourism attractions during their stay.

With preparations now completed, Arusha is set to welcome parliamentarians from around the world for five days of discussions, leadership decisions and international engagement, placing Tanzania at the centre of global parliamentary diplomacy.