In a move aimed at enhancing safety and improving the exhibition experience, all councils and institutions in Mbeya Region have dismantled their existing structures at the John Mwakangale grounds to pave the way for infrastructure upgrades ahead of this year’s zonal Nane Nane Agricultural Exhibition.
The exhibition, which draws thousands of farmers, agribusiness stakeholders, and members of the public, is scheduled to take place in August, with this year’s edition expected to feature a new layout and security measures to better manage the growing number of participants.
According to Said Madito, the Assistant Regional Administrative Secretary for Economy and Production, the decision to restructure the grounds and introduce designated “village-style” zones aims to limit overcrowding and control the movement of people across the venue a challenge noted in previous editions.
“Our objective is to ensure that this year’s exhibition is conducted in a more secure and orderly environment. By reorganizing the layout and introducing security-focused features, we believe all activities will proceed smoothly,” he said during a stakeholders’ meeting held on July 8, 2025.
Engineer Elizabeth Mziray, the construction supervisor from the Ministry of Agriculture, said work is progressing on key structures, including the main entrance gate, perimeter fence, and front-line pavilions.
She noted that construction is more than 20 percent complete and is on track to be finished by July 30.
“The contractor is already on site, and we’re working within the ministry’s directive to prioritize essential infrastructure that enhances visitor flow and safety,” Mziray said.
Stakeholders at the meeting urged the organizing secretariat to consider installing a temporary perimeter wall using corrugated iron sheets to further enhance security during the exhibition period.
Several local residents echoed the sentiment, noting that secure fencing is critical to safeguarding both exhibitors and visitors from potential disturbances and theft.
Neema Juma, a small-scale grain trader, expressed optimism about the upcoming event, saying that Nane Nane remains a vital platform for entrepreneurs to showcase and sell their products.
“The exhibition opens up many opportunities for us to reach new customers and expand our businesses,” she said. “We welcome the improvements and look forward to a successful event.”