A minister said food stability is fundamental for Tanzania's economy and society. Prof Palamagamba Kabudi, the Information, Culture, Arts and Sports Minister, stressed this point. His comments came during a cultural festival called Ijuk'Omuka in Bukoba, within the Kagera region. The Home Affairs Minister, George Simbachawene, delivered the speech for him. Kabudi called agriculture vital for economic recovery. He argued that exploring good farmland and researching proper crops is necessary. This path, he said, leads to feeding the nation and bringing in money from exports. He acknowledged the country still struggles with having enough food. Climate issues and financial strains create problems like droughts and high prices. Building tough, fair, and lasting food systems was his stated goal for helping vulnerable people.
The Kagera Regional Commissioner, Fatma Mwassa, gave a more positive regional report. She stated the area has sufficient food stocks, like bananas and beans. Fish from Lake Victoria and other lakes also contribute. Kagera grows huge amounts of bananas and coffee, producing most of the national supply for those crops. She cited two reliable rainy seasons and the region's placement next to Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi. This location, plus lake access to Kenya, makes it a portal to a huge market. Mwassa pushed for outside business investment, mentioning fertile land, security, and willing workers. She credited a new Investment Act from President Samia Suluhu Hassan's administration for making things easier. The law now demands less starting money for domestic investors compared to foreigners.
Mwassa also outlined major government spending in Kagera. She thanked the president for directing funds to health, education, and water services. A large sum was earmarked for development projects in the region over a five year span. Road paving and a new ferry boat named MV Mwanza Hapa Kazi Tu were listed as key efforts to move people and products. Tourism in places like BurigiChato National Park was presented as another ready opportunity for investors.
The Kagera Regional Commissioner, Fatma Mwassa, gave a more positive regional report. She stated the area has sufficient food stocks, like bananas and beans. Fish from Lake Victoria and other lakes also contribute. Kagera grows huge amounts of bananas and coffee, producing most of the national supply for those crops. She cited two reliable rainy seasons and the region's placement next to Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi. This location, plus lake access to Kenya, makes it a portal to a huge market. Mwassa pushed for outside business investment, mentioning fertile land, security, and willing workers. She credited a new Investment Act from President Samia Suluhu Hassan's administration for making things easier. The law now demands less starting money for domestic investors compared to foreigners.
Mwassa also outlined major government spending in Kagera. She thanked the president for directing funds to health, education, and water services. A large sum was earmarked for development projects in the region over a five year span. Road paving and a new ferry boat named MV Mwanza Hapa Kazi Tu were listed as key efforts to move people and products. Tourism in places like BurigiChato National Park was presented as another ready opportunity for investors.
