Stakeholders urged to tap opportunities from major events
ARUSHA: ARUSHA Regional Administrative Secretary (RAS), Dr Toba Nguvila, has called on local business and agricultural stakeholders to prepare early and raise service standards ahead of major international events arriving in Tanzania.
With thousands of delegates expected for the 153rd Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly, HortiLogistica Africa 2026 and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Dr Nguvila emphasised that the region faces a massive surge in demand for housing, transport, food, financial services and healthcare.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting over the weekend, Dr Nguvila urged agricultural players to look beyond mere exhibitions and build reliable supply networks for local hotels and restaurants.
“Farmers, processors and logistics firms must coordinate clearly on capacity, packaging, pricing and food safety standards,” he said, pointing to the upcoming HortiLogistica Africa 2026 set for November with an estimated 15,000 attendees as a crucial testing ground.
He urged farmers, traders, processors and logistics firms to coordinate and provide clear information on production capacity, prices, packaging and delivery systems.
Dr Nguvila stressed the need to uphold quality and food safety standards, supported by efficient transport and storage systems to ensure timely delivery.
He advised tourism stakeholders to design attractive tour packages to destinations such as Ngorongoro, Serengeti and Tarangire, with clear pricing and itineraries.
Dr Nguvila directed institutions to define their roles, assign coordinators and ensure readiness of key services, including electricity, water, health, transport and emergency response.
He also urged businesses to maintain quality services, fair pricing, cleanliness and security, while residents were reminded to act professionally as ambassadors of the region.
“Unverified information must be avoided as it can harm the country’s image,” he said, calling for use of official communication channels.
Sadio Events representative, Saada Sipemba said Tanzania’s peace, infrastructure and conference facilities position it well to host high-profile events, noting the Arusha International Conference Centre is fully equipped.
Tanzania Horticulture Association (TAHA) Chief Executive Officer, Ms Jacqueline Mkindi, said the events will connect local producers with investors and markets, with over 500 businesses expected to participate.
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Other stakeholders, including TEMDO Director General Prof Frederick Kahimba, called for deliberate efforts to ensure small businesses, youth and service providers benefit from the opportunities.
Tourism stakeholders also emphasised professionalism and improved service delivery to enhance visitor experience and promote repeat visits.
