The Tanzanian government is promoting integration of horticulture and tourism, two of the country's most dynamic sectors as a powerful strategy to boost rural economies. Speaking at an investors' dialogue held over the weekend in Arusha, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Mr Gerald Mweli stressed the transformative potential of linking the multi-billion-dollar horticulture and tourism industries.
His speech was delivered on his behalf by Mr Philbert Philemon from the ministry. The event was jointly organised by the Tanzania Horticultural Association (TAHA), the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO) and supported by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Mr Mweli stressed the importance of fostering strong coordination between horticultural producers and the tourism sector, which contributes approximately 3.9 billion US dollars (about 19.3tri/-) annually to Tanzania's economy.
"Investment opportunities in horticulture, spice and organic farming and other high-value crops hold immense promise, not only for our domestic hospitality industry but also for foreign export," he said.
He proposed the development of agro-processing zones and strategically located farms along key tourism corridors such as those in Arusha, Kilimanjaro and Manyara. These farms, he noted, could serve dual purposes: supplying high-quality fresh produce and functioning as experiential tourism attractions.
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