Mbeya faces uphill task to overtake Dar, Mwanza in economic contribution

The Mbeya Region, currently Tanzania’s third-largest contributor to the national economy, could rise to the top if residents and businesses make better use of available opportunities, Regional Commissioner Jumanne Sagini has said. According to Bank of Tanzania estimates for 2025, Dar es Salaam leads with a contribution of Sh39.808 trillion, followed by Mwanza at Sh16.749 trillion. Mbeya ranks third at Sh12.924 trillion, ahead of Morogoro and Arusha, which contribute Sh11.409 trillion and Sh11.101 trillion, respectively. Mr Sagini said the region could improve its position through better environmental cleanliness, stronger promotion of local products on social media and improved infrastructure, including the ongoing construction of a dual carriageway. Speaking at a fashion event, Vazi la Kitenge, held in Mbeya on the night of October 18, he said he wanted to see the region achieve tangible economic progress rather than rely on rhetoric. He urged residents, traders and entrepreneurs to add value to local opportunities, saying the government was working to create a favourable environment for businesses and innovation. “Mbeya has no major shopping malls, while Mwanza has Rock City Mall. I would like us to have Green City Mall within three years. We also need a major banana market in Rungwe instead of sending bananas to Dar es Salaam,” he said. Mr Sagini said the region should also create opportunities for young people to earn a living through mining in Chunya District. He pledged to closely monitor the dual carriageway project to ensure it was completed on time, warning that the contractor could be replaced if unable to deliver. He said the fashion event offered an opportunity to promote Mbeya’s products and connect local businesses with domestic and international markets through digital platforms. “Young people are a major source of innovation. We must give them opportunities, trust them and connect them with available opportunities. Use your talents and creativity in fashion, arts, tailoring and business to reach markets digitally,” he said. Businessman Dickson Kadinda said poor infrastructure continued to affect businesses, urging the government to accelerate the road project. “Businesses are struggling because of the road, although we appreciate the government’s efforts. We ask that the project be completed quickly,” he said, while commending the broader investment environment. Event organiser Edwin Luvanda said the festival brought together tailors from several regions in Tanzania’s Southern Highlands to recognise their creativity and encourage the exchange of skills and experience. Ten emerging tailors were awarded prizes, he said, adding that the event also aimed to promote Mbeya and the wider Southern Highlands as centres of creativity and business opportunities.