Mbarali District Council in Mbeya Region has earmarked more than 20,000 hectares of land to attract private sector investment, alongside implementing 100 new irrigation schemes aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and local incomes.
District Executive Director, Raymond Mweli, said the initiative is part of broader efforts to open up Mbarali as an investment destination and strengthen its contribution to the national economy.
He noted that agriculture, particularly rice farming, accounts for nearly 80 percent of the district’s revenue, making it a key pillar of both local and national development.
Mweli said the council has prioritized creating a business-friendly environment to draw investors into various sectors, including agriculture, agribusiness, and infrastructure.
“Our goal is to unlock Mbarali’s full potential by offering opportunities that support inclusive economic growth and empower local communities,” he said.
He explained that in the last financial year, the council spent more than TZS3.5 billion on development projects, focusing on education, healthcare, and infrastructure improvements.
Mweli credited the achievements to the Sixth-Phase Government under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, whose administration has channeled funds to upgrade the Mbarali District Hospital and construct health centres in 20 wards.
He added that the council, in partnership with the National Irrigation Commission, is advancing the construction of 100 irrigation schemes, which are at various stages of implementation.
The projects are expected to expand irrigated land, improve food security, and attract agribusiness investments.
Mweli said his vision is to see Mbarali become a model of local economic transformation, driven by strategic investment and good governance.
“We are committed to positioning Mbarali as a leading district in sustainable development and investment promotion,” he said.