The Regional Commissioner of Katavi, Mwanamvua Mrindoko
The Regional Commissioner of Katavi, Mwanamvua Mrindoko, has launched a training initiative aimed at equipping local leaders with the skills to identify and develop Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects.
The training, organized by the Public-Private Partnership Centre (PPPC) of Tanzania, is designed to promote the integration of private sector expertise into regional development.
It is part of a broader national effort to enhance the capacity of local authorities to leverage PPPs for economic growth.
In her opening address, Mrindoko emphasized Katavi's significant untapped potential, stating, “Katavi offers numerous investment opportunities, particularly in forestry, beekeeping, tourism, fishing, transport, and agriculture.”
Her remarks pointed to the region’s resource wealth, which includes the Katavi National Park, a prime tourism site, and abundant agricultural and fishing opportunities.
However, she acknowledged that realizing the full potential of these sectors requires effective partnerships with the private sector to bring the necessary capital and expertise.
The training session, which has trained 42 experts from the region, covers key areas essential to developing successful PPPs, include the understanding the PPP concept, preparing Project Concept Notes, and using GIS technology to map potential projects.
Trainers Dr. Bravious Kahyoza and Michael Kihanga have focused on ensuring that local leaders can not only conceptualize but also implement PPP projects that align with the region's development goals.
“The skills gained from this training will significantly contribute to Katavi’s development by empowering local authorities to initiate and manage PPPs,” Mrindoko said. His emphasis on the need for local government officials to understand the intricacies of PPPs reflects the government’s growing commitment to integrating the private sector into regional development planning.
Mrindoko also highlighted the positive economic impact of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration, which has invested heavily in Katavi’s infrastructure.
“Over the past four years, President Samia has allocated over 1.56 trillion Tanzanian shillings to development projects in the region,” she noted.
The investments have improved access to electricity, with over 80% of urban areas and 70% of rural areas now connected to the grid. Such advancements, he argued, are crucial for the success of PPP projects, as reliable infrastructure is a key factor for attracting private sector investment.
In addition to appreciating the government’s infrastructure investments, Mrindoko commended the creation of the PPPC.
“The establishment of the PPPC is a bold and visionary move by President Samia, one that will help steer Tanzania towards greater economic collaboration between the public and private sectors,” she said.
She also acknowledged the efforts of Mr. David Kafulila, the PPPC’s director, for leading the initiative and making PPPs more understandable and accessible to Tanzanians.
The Katavi Regional Administrative Secretary, Mr. Albert Msovela, echoed these sentiments, noting, “This training will play a pivotal role in Katavi’s development. The region is ready to collaborate with the PPPC to implement impactful PPP projects.”
The Katavi Regional Administrative Secretary, Mr. Albert Msovela |
As part of a nationwide initiative, the PPPC continues to roll out training in 13 regions across Tanzania, marking the second phase of its mission to promote PPPs. With its wealth of resources and ongoing infrastructure improvements, Katavi is well-positioned to become a model region for PPP-driven growth in Tanzania.