Joseph Isangura
journalists and cultural advocates In Katavi have been urged to spotlight the region’s intangible cultural heritage as a means of attracting investment and stimulating local economic growth.
Efforts are now underway to promote the unique cultural elements of Katavi, such as traditional cuisine, native attire, and indigenous languages, to create new economic opportunities for residents.
At the opening of a two-day capacity-building workshop for community radio journalists, social media reporters, and cultural stakeholders in Mpanda District, Leah Gawaza, an Administrative Officer representing the Mpanda District Commissioner, emphasized the role of media in showcasing Katavi’s intangible cultural heritage. She noted that by focusing on this heritage, local media could increase awareness and draw investment to benefit the region’s economy.
Carol Steven, Katavi’s Regional Officer for Sports, Culture, and Youth Development, echoed the importance of the workshop, which comes on the heels of Katavi Week—a local celebration dedicated to promoting Katavi’s unique cultural identity and economic potential. The workshop, she said, offers a timely opportunity for journalists and cultural advocates to enhance their capacity to engage with and promote the region’s heritage to a broader audience.
Closing the workshop, Mpanda Municipality’s Cultural Officer, Bakari Hamza, called on attendees to put their skills to practical use within the community. He urged them to avoid complacency and instead actively promote Katavi’s heritage as a viable avenue for economic growth and self-sufficiency among residents.
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Journalists and cultural representatives who participated in the training pledged to apply their newly acquired skills to support local initiatives. They expressed optimism that this focus on cultural heritage would inspire residents, especially women and youth, to pursue income-generating activities linked to Katavi’s distinct cultural identity, rather than relying solely on government employment.
Supported through a global cultural development initiative, the program aims to foster sustainable economic opportunities in Katavi by unlocking the region’s cultural heritage as a valuable community asset.
