The Mbeya Regional Administration has pledged to expand investment opportunities without disrupting the region's agricultural production, assuring residents that farming will remain central to the local economy even as new investors are welcomed.
Speaking during a media briefing organised by the Tanzania Investment and Special Economic Zones Authority (TISEZA) on Thursday, Regional Commissioner Beno Malisa said Mbeya is positioning itself as a competitive investment destination with opportunities in agriculture, mining, livestock, fisheries, manufacturing and infrastructure.
He said the region has designated investment areas and is ready to host both local and foreign investors.
"We will continue growing potatoes while expanding the scope of investment. Mbeya has opened its doors to investors, and land for investment is available," Mr Malisa said.
He stressed that attracting investment would complement, rather than replace, existing economic activities, particularly agriculture, which remains the backbone of livelihoods for thousands of households in the region.
Mr Malisa said the regional administration would continue working closely with TISEZA to ensure investors receive timely support and a predictable business environment, with the aim of accelerating project implementation and boosting economic activity.
TISEZA Southern Highlands Zone Manager Fedilis Obanga said the authority continues to facilitate investment by providing advisory services, promoting available opportunities and streamlining procedures for investors.
He urged local entrepreneurs and businesses to seize emerging investment opportunities, noting that increased private sector participation would help stimulate economic growth, create jobs and expand income-generating opportunities for residents.
The remarks come as Tanzania intensifies efforts to attract private investment to support industrialisation, value addition and regional economic development while preserving the productivity of key agricultural areas.
