MWE Correspondent
As Tanzania approaches its general elections later this year, stakeholders in the tourism sector are urging the electorate to choose leaders who can address infrastructure challenges and unlock the full potential of the industry.
Arusha, often regarded as the “safari capital” of East Africa, is at the center of these discussions due to its growing role in tourism and hospitality.
The city has recently seen major developments designed to position it as a regional hub for international events. Notably, the planned Mount Kilimanjaro International Conference Centre (MKICC) is expected to open in 2027. Funded entirely through domestic resources, the $152 million facility will include a 5,000-seat auditorium, a 500-room hotel, and modern meeting spaces aimed at attracting conferences and exhibitions from around the globe.
Infrastructure upgrades are not limited to conference facilities. Arusha Airport is slated to begin 24-hour international operations by December 2025, helping to accommodate the increasing number of tourists and relieving traffic at nearby Kilimanjaro International Airport.
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These projects form part of a larger $3.5 trillion investment in regional infrastructure, including improvements to other regional airports, roads, and utilities.
Tanzania’s tourism sector has already demonstrated impressive growth. By April 2025, the country welcomed 5.3 million international visitors, surpassing the original annual target of five million. The sector is credited with creating thousands of jobs and contributing significantly to the national economy.
Industry leaders emphasize the importance of strong leadership to sustain this momentum. Ms. Sharifa Bakari, a local hotelier, stresses that electing capable leaders could further develop the tourism sector, create employment opportunities, and strengthen Tanzania’s economy. “Arusha is a hub for tourism, and if well supported, the industry can generate more employment and significantly boost the country’s economic growth,” she said.
