The Iringa Regional Commissioner, Kheri James, has announced a three-day academic event organized by Mkwawa University College of Education aimed at promoting research, innovation and community development.
The event will take place from June 2 to 4, 2026, at the Iringa Municipal Garden grounds from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with the official opening scheduled for June 2.
Speaking to journalists in Iringa, Kheri said the celebrations will be held under the theme, “Harnessing Tanzania’s Minerals Wealth for Renewable Energy, Digital Transformation and Social Security,” focusing on how research and innovation can support economic and social development.
He said the event aligns with Tanzania’s Development Vision 2050 and the government’s efforts to strengthen the use of science, technology and innovation in addressing development challenges.
Kheri invited stakeholders from the public and private sectors, researchers, entrepreneurs and residents to participate in the event, which will feature exhibitions, research presentations and community services.
Among the services expected to be offered free of charge are health screening, nutrition advice, psychological and business counseling, hearing tests and blood donation activities.
Residents will also have an opportunity to learn about research findings and innovation projects developed by university experts and researchers.
The Director of Research and Innovation at Mkwawa University College of Education, Selina Mkimbili, said the event will bring together researchers, innovators and development stakeholders to discuss practical solutions to challenges facing communities.
Dr. Mkimbili said MUCE research focuses on agriculture, environment, nutrition and economic development, with the goal of improving livelihoods through scientific solutions.
She said one of the studies attracting attention involves ulanzi, a traditional beverage commonly produced in Iringa Region.
Researchers have identified opportunities to process ulanzi into value-added products such as spirit and ethanol products, which could increase income for producers and reduce dependence on imported products.
Another area of research focuses on mushroom farming, where experts have developed sustainable production methods aimed at helping small-scale farmers improve productivity and access competitive markets.
Research targeting tomato, maize and vegetable farming will also be presented, with a focus on improving crop yields, controlling pests and strengthening resilience against climate change impacts.
Dr. Mkimbili encouraged farmers, traders, development institutions and members of the public to attend the event and learn about new technologies and research-based solutions that can improve economic activities and livelihoods.
The academic celebrations are expected to provide a platform for showcasing how research and innovation can contribute to social, technological and economic transformation in Iringa Region and across Tanzania.
