On July 31, 2023, Vice President Dr. Philip Mpango inaugurated the first fruit and vegetable processing plant, known as Mbeya Food Park, located in Iyela Ward, Mbeya City Council.
The plant, funded by the European Union (EU), is operated by Get Group Company Limited in partnership with the Mbeya City Council.
According to the plant’s management, the facility cost TZS 1.7 billion to build, including the acquisition of machinery used to process various fruits and vegetables.
Investment Enabled by Policy Reforms
This investment reflects improved conditions for both local and foreign investors, stemming from the new Investment Act of 2022. The act, signed by President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, was officially published on December 2, 2022, in the Government Gazette.
Nelson Kisanga, Co-Director of Get Group Company Limited, stated that the company decided to enter into a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with the government due to the favorable business environment fostered by the current administration.
“The goal of establishing this plant is to create employment, especially for women and youth, through fruit and vegetable farming. This ensures these groups benefit from the entire value chain,” Kisanga explained.
Offering Diverse Processing Services
“At the plant, we offer a variety of processing services,” Kisanga elaborated.
“These include avocado and sunflower oil extraction, potato and banana processing, honey packaging, and the production of wine, spices, nutritional supplements, and dried fruits and vegetables.”
The plant currently serves over 600 people, most of whom are small-scale entrepreneurs processing their produce for either household consumption or commercial purposes. Additionally, 20 youths have secured permanent jobs at the facility.
Empowering Youth through Employment
Gilbert Gosbert, a young resident of Mbeya and an IT Officer at the plant, expressed his gratitude for the improved investment climate created under President Samia’s leadership.
“Without this plant, I wouldn’t have a job. Many young people, including myself, have benefited. During peak seasons, when fruit supply is high, temporary jobs also become available. Additionally, we train individuals on market management skills,” Gosbert explained.
Opportunities for Women Entrepreneurs
Neema Innocent, an employee at the plant, encouraged women to take advantage of the opportunities the facility provides. She highlighted that women could work individually or in groups to purchase fruits at affordable prices and have them processed into products like spices, juices, wine, or dried vegetables.
“This plant has empowered me financially and taught me entrepreneurial skills. I urge other women not to wait for handouts—opportunities are here. President Samia has opened doors for us; now it’s our turn to step up,” Neema said.
Transforming the Community and Regional Economy
Iyela Ward Councillor Mussa Ismail acknowledged that the presence of the plant has expanded economic opportunities for residents and elevated the status of both the ward and the city.
Meanwhile, Richard Salagata, a Business Officer from the Mbeya Regional Office, described the project as a result of President Samia’s economic diplomacy efforts, with financial support from EU member countries.
“There are several social and development projects in Mbeya funded by international partners. These projects have significantly benefited locals by providing both permanent and temporary jobs and creating additional opportunities,” Salagata said.
Salagata further noted that Mbeya Region currently hosts 3,778 factories, with more than 1,000 factories established during President Samia’s three-year tenure, creating numerous employment opportunities for the region’s residents.