Tanzania:Kagera Regional Commissioner Honored for Driving Economic Growth Amidst Challenges

By Adonis Byemelwa

In a significant development highlighting the ongoing efforts towards economic revitalization, the Kagera Regional Commissioner Fatma Abubakari Mwassa, has been honored with the Outstanding Performance Award for her exceptional leadership in addressing challenges within the Trade and Investment Sector in the region.

The prestigious award was presented to Hon. Fatma Mwassa at her office on March 18, 2024, by Mr. Vincent Minja, the President of the Tanzania Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture (TCCIA), accompanied by the regional chamber leadership. This recognition underscores the pivotal role played by Hon. Fatma Mwassa in driving sustainable growth and development in Kagera.

During the ceremony, the regional boss outlined the current state of investment and trade in the region, emphasizing the abundant and lucrative investment opportunities available in Kagera. She highlighted the importance of individual and regional economic growth, underscoring the need for concerted efforts to strengthen the business sector.

With a strategic focus on infrastructure development, Hon. Fatma emphasized ongoing initiatives aimed at enhancing transportation networks and facilitating trade. Key projects include the construction of asphalt roads, the development of cargo shipping facilities, and improvements to ports and air routes. Additionally, the upcoming construction of Omukajunguti Airport is set to further boost connectivity and facilitate economic activities in the region.

Under a comprehensive seven-year Strategic Plan (2023/2030), Kagera aims to reposition itself as a hub for economic prosperity. Despite facing economic challenges and being ranked 25th among Tanzania's mainland regions, Hon. Fatma remains optimistic about the region's potential for growth.

The region's GDP stood at 4.3 trillion Tanzanian shillings in 2022, with income per capita for citizens slightly below the national average. To address this disparity, collective efforts are required to propel Kagera towards economic advancement.

Geographically positioned near the entire East African Community (EAC) market, Kagera boasts strategic advantages for trade and investment. With a surface area covering approximately 4 percent of Tanzania's mainland and abundant natural resources, the region offers promising opportunities across various sectors, including agriculture, tourism, and natural resource management.

However, despite its vast potential, many investment opportunities in Kagera remain untapped. The development of infrastructure, including electricity, roads, and water supply, is crucial to unlocking the region's economic potential and improving the livelihoods of its residents.

In addition to governmental efforts, collaboration with organizations such as the TCCIA plays a vital role in promoting commercial opportunities, facilitating trade, and attracting investments. Through initiatives like trade-focused facilitation, market intelligence, and addressing non-tariff barriers, the chamber aims to support businesses and promote economic growth in Kagera and beyond.

Hon. Fatma's leadership and commitment to fostering economic development have earned her widespread recognition and accolades. Despite challenges, her unwavering dedication to the advancement of Kagera underscores the region's resilience and determination to overcome obstacles and achieve sustainable prosperity.

As Kagera continues its journey toward economic transformation, stakeholders must work collaboratively to harness the region's vast potential and create a thriving environment for business and investment. However, the realization of this potential hinges on addressing key challenges, particularly regarding cross-border trade and economic integration within the East African Community (EAC).

If the East Africa common market comes to fruition, Kagera residents may leverage reduced costs of living and lower prices for essential items, such as construction materials like cement, which currently sell at a higher price compared to neighboring countries like Uganda.

 Border restrictions at Mutukula between Uganda and Tanzania stifle opportunities for Kagera residents to access more affordable goods, impacting their livelihoods and economic prospects.

Moreover, the region faces hurdles in establishing a comparative advantage, particularly in major food crops like bananas and coffee. While these commodities are readily available in neighboring countries, restrictive government policies hinder farmers from freely accessing markets and obtaining competitive prices for their produce. Such constraints perpetuate economic challenges and inhibit the region's potential for growth and development.

Amidst these challenges, the recent recognition of Kagera Regional Commissioner Fatma Abubakari Mwassa with the Outstanding Performance Award by the Tanzania Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture (TCCIA), underscores the importance of effective leadership and strategic vision in overcoming obstacles to economic progress. Through collaborative efforts and innovative solutions, Kagera has the opportunity to emerge as a beacon of economic growth and prosperity in Tanzania and the wider East African region.