Ilemela Municipal Council, which forms part of Mwanza City, has rolled out a series of investment projects targeting key growth sectors within the municipality a bold move to diversify revenue streams and stimulate economic development.

The initiatives, aligned with the Local Government Finance Act Cap 290 and the Public Private Partnership Act of 2023, are structured to attract both public and private sector partners under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) model.

The IMC Head of the Department of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Kefa Gembe, told The Guardian recently, all the outlined plans and initiatives fall under the jurisdiction of the Ilemela Municipal Investment Committee and are overseen by the Municipal Director, Ummy Wayayu and chaired by Herbert Bilia, an economist.

“We have earmarked five major projects to attract investors who will partner with the municipality to create sustainable economic opportunities while boosting our revenue base,” said Gembe, who is also the investment committee secretary.

 One of the flagship projects is the Proposed Construction of the Buzuruga Commercial Complex, set on a 20,445 square meter site adjacent to the Mwanza–Musoma road. The complex is expected to serve as a multifunctional hub, housing upscale retail shops, service providers, and corporate offices. With dedicated zones for a food court and a multipurpose event space, the complex is positioned to attract both local and international visitors.

“This development will act as a central economic catalyst, providing a platform for diverse businesses to thrive,” said Gembe.

Another strategic initiative is the Proposed Construction of a Modern Hotel at Nyamanoro Market, situated on a 6,425 square meter plot along the Airport Road. The hotel is envisioned to meet the rising demand for accommodation driven by growing investment activities in Mwanza city and the broader Lake Zone.

“This project will not only accommodate visitors but also generate employment and increase council revenue,” said Gembe.

To address the housing deficit in the fast-growing city, the municipality has also lined up the construction of residential apartments at Kirumba Housing Estate. Located on a 5,942 square meter site near Rock City Mall and Mwaloni International Landing Site, the apartments are designed to offer affordable housing for low and middle-income residents.

“The population and economic activity in Ilemela and Mwanza city are rising, and this project responds to the increasing demand for decent, accessible housing,” said Gembe.

In Nyasaka, the municipality is proposing the construction of residential apartments and a conference centre on a 31,020 square meter site. The initiative aims to combine affordable housing with a business-friendly environment through the addition of conference facilities.

“This project addresses both housing needs and the growing demand for modern conference spaces for business meetings and events,” said Gembe adding that the investment committee is under the municipal’s economist, Herbert Bilia.

Lastly, the proposed Buswelu Shopping Mall, occupying 19,300 square meters in a strategically growing area, is expected to become a commercial and recreational hub. With nearby government offices, the planned Buswelu market, and strong road connections, the site has potential for additional developments such as an executive lodge, conference halls, and more residential units.

“This location is ideal for a mix-use development that integrates commerce, recreation, and accommodation,” said Gembe.

Gembe said all projects are open to local and international investors under the PPP model and form part of the council’s long-term strategy to position Ilemela as a vibrant economic zone within Mwanza city, Tanzania’s second-largest urban center.

Additionally, he there also a hotel is a fully equipped facility comprising 100 rooms, offering a ready-to-operate environment for hospitality services.

“The hotel is strategically located in the Nyamhongolo area, making it ideal for both business and leisure clients,” he said.