IPU delegates tour Arumeru development projects

ARUSHA: ARUMERU District Commissioner Neema Lugangira has received a delegation attending the 153rd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) from 16 countries, which toured development projects in Arusha District Council.

The delegation visited the Kiyoga dispensary project, focusing on maternal and child health services, as well as a youth irrigation project in Oloigeruno Village, where young people are engaged in vegetable farming.

Ms Lugangira commended the delegation for demonstrating its commitment to working with the government to improve the livelihoods of communities, particularly in areas requiring greater access to health and agricultural services.

“We are ready as Arumeru to strengthen this cooperation with United Nations agencies in Tanzania, including UNICEF, WHO and WFP, as well as the Mastercard Foundation and TAHA,” she said.

She called for the projects to be extended to other areas of Arusha District Council and Meru District Council, noting that Arumeru comprises two councils.

“My main request is that these projects reach other areas of Arusha District Council and, because our district has two councils, it is important that we also reach Meru District Council to ensure we contribute to positive and sustainable results for our people,” Ms Lugangira said.

Tanzania’s Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations Offices and other international organisations, Hoyce Temu, said Tanzania had gained significant recognition by hosting the international meeting.

She  said the assembly provided an opportunity to strengthen cooperation between Tanzania and countries around the world, urging proper management of development projects implemented by the government and its partners.

“This meeting is a gateway to opening up cooperation with various countries around the world, so I continue to emphasise proper management of projects implemented by the government and other stakeholders,” Ambassador Hoyce said.

The visit enabled the delegates to observe first-hand the delivery of maternal and child health services at Kiyoga dispensary, which received support for its development, as well as initiatives supporting youth irrigation and vegetable production.

The 153rd IPU Assembly is being held in Arusha, bringing together parliamentarians and other delegates from different countries.

The gathering has also provided an opportunity for international visitors to experience Tanzania’s cultural heritage and attractions.