The Minister of State in the President’s Office Regional Administration and Local Government (TAMISEMI), Mohamed Mchengerwa, has joined a host of national and international leaders at the ongoing Arusha Economic Forum, currently being held at the International Conference Centre (IACC) in Arusha.
The high-profile event has brought together more than 1,000 participants from around the world, including government ministers, business leaders, economists, and policy experts.
The forum serves as a strategic platform for dialogue on economic growth, investment, and sustainable development opportunities in the Arusha region and beyond.
Among the notable figures attending is renowned Pan-African scholar and public intellectual, Professor Patrick Lumumba, who has been invited as one of the keynote speakers.
His presence has drawn significant attention to the forum, with expectations that his address will inspire new approaches to regional development and economic integration in East Africa.
The Arusha Economic Forum is the brainchild of the Regional Commissioner of Arusha, Paul Makonda.
His vision for the event is to create a meaningful space where local entrepreneurs and business owners can connect with experts, gain knowledge, and explore practical ways to tap into the region’s growing economic potential.
“Our goal is to bridge the gap between policy and practice,” said Makonda in his opening remarks. “We want to ensure that the people of Arusha benefit directly from the economic resources available here through investment, innovation, and education.”
Mchengerwa, speaking during one of the panel discussions, emphasized the importance of decentralization and empowering local governments to foster economic development. He highlighted TAMISEMI’s commitment to strengthening local governance structures as a key pillar for inclusive growth.
“This forum comes at a crucial time,” said Mchengerwa. “We must ensure that regions like Arusha are equipped not only with resources but also with the knowledge and networks needed to thrive in a competitive global economy.”
The Arusha Economic Forum continues over the next few days with a series of panels, exhibitions, and workshops.
Participants are expected to explore topics ranging from tourism and agriculture to innovation and infrastructure development, all aimed at unlocking Arusha’s economic potential and attracting new investments.