RC urges Katavi residents to seize agricultural, tourism opportunities

KATAVI: CITIZENS in the Katavi region have been encouraged to use the upcoming Mwanakatavi Festival week to explore various opportunities in agriculture and tourism that can enhance both individual and national economies.
Katavi Regional Commissioner, Ms. Mwanamvua Mrindoko, emphasised the significance of this festival, scheduled to take place in Mpanda municipality from 25 to 31 this month, marking its third occurrence since its inception in 2022.
“The event aims to foster awareness and engagement in local industries, providing a platform for community members to learn about available resources and opportunities in the region,” she said at the weekend.
She urged residents to utilise this platform to learn about the numerous opportunities available in the region’s agriculture and tourism sectors.
Ms Mrindoko also highlighted the need for the Katavi regional natural resources conservation institutions to continue their efforts in protecting forests and game reserves from poaching and encroachment.
The region, part of the Southern Highlands Zone, is rich in investment opportunities spanning agriculture, tourism, hospitality, mining, livestock, forestry, education, and fisheries.
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With over 112,425 acres of arable land set aside for food and industrial crop cultivation, Katavi is notably recognised for its maize production, which constitutes a significant portion of Tanzania’s cultivated cereal area.
The region is also home to unique tourist attractions, including River Mapacha and the rare white giraffes in Katavi National Park, making it a promising destination for visitors.
In addition to agricultural and tourism opportunities, the Mwanakatavi Festival serves as a vital platform for local artisans and entrepreneurs to showcase their products and services.
This exposure can lead to increased sales and a wider customer base, ultimately contributing to the region’s economic growth.
By bringing together various stakeholders, including government officials, local businesses and community members, the festival fosters collaboration and innovation, essential for sustainable development in Katavi.
Furthermore, the festival is expected to attract visitors from neighbouring regions and countries, boosting the local economy through increased tourism.
As the region shares borders with the Democratic Republic of Congo and Burundi, the event presents an opportunity to promote cross-border trade and cultural exchange.