Tanzania allocates 424.6 acres in Kongwa for Africa’s liberation heritage centre

KONGWA: THE Tanzanian government has set aside 424.6 acres in Kongwa District, Dodoma Region, for the construction of a continental centre to preserve Africa’s liberation heritage.

The move aims to strengthen historical conservation and boost cultural tourism.

The Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Paul Makonda said this when presenting the ministry’s 2026/27 budget estimates in the parliament in Dodoma noting that the project, to be implemented through the African Liberation Heritage Centre, is expected to become an institution under the African Union, underscoring its strategic national and continental importance.

“The centre’s main task is identifying, collecting, preserving and promoting liberation heritage, including documents, photographs, films, speeches by leaders, maps, songs, uniforms and key historical sites such as heroes’ graves, freedom fighters’ camps and liberation infrastructure,” he said.

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Additionally, the minister said that between July 2025 and April 2026, the ministry, through the centre, has made significant progress, including securing formal ownership of the land and laying a solid foundation for implementation of the project.

“Preparations are ongoing, including procurement processes to secure a project consultant and construction contractor,” he said.

Moreover, he said that once completed, the centre is expected to serve not only as a symbol of Africa’s liberation history but also as a catalyst for economic development through heritage tourism, job creation for youth and broader benefits to Kongwa District and the nation.

The initiative is also seen as strengthening national unity while reinforcing Tanzania’s position as a leader in preserving Africa’s liberation legacy and advancing the cultural economy.