DEPUTY Prime Minister and Minister for Energy, Dr Doto Biteko has urged investors to explore opportunities in Kagera Region due to the region’s strategic geographical advantages.

Dr Biteko made the call during the second regional investment festival, held as part of the “Ijuka Omuka Week” (Remember Home) event.

“My appeal is for others to come and invest, taking full advantage of the unique opportunities offered by the geography of this region,” Dr Biteko said.

He praised Kagera’s Regional Commissioner Fatma Mwassa, for her outstanding efforts in organising the investment conference, which aims to promote the region’s potential and boost its economic development.

Dr Biteko also encouraged Kagera residents to support the Regional Commissioner’s initiatives, stressing the importance of unity in achieving the region’s development goals.

Minister for Home Affairs, Innocent Bashungwa said that the idea for the festival stemmed from President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s directive to assess and address the economic challenges facing Kagera Region.

“In 2022, a broad coalition of stakeholders came together to identify the barriers hindering economic growth in the region,” Bashungwa said. “The people of Kagera are fortunate to have strong backing from President Samia, whose political will has led to numerous development projects, creating further opportunities for economic advancement.”

Bashungwa highlighted Kagera’s geographical location, noting that the region’s strategic position makes it an attractive destination for investment.

“Our region is well-positioned geographically, and we have a strong labour force. We encourage all Kagera residents, both here and abroad, to remember home and contribute to our region's growth,” he said.

Bashungwa also praised ongoing large-scale infrastructure projects, including the construction of the Kigongo-Busisi Bridge, which is expected to be completed by February 2025, as well as the development of key roads and the connection of Kagera to the national power grid.

On her part, Kagera Regional Commissioner explained that the second investment festival serves as a platform for government officials and stakeholders to share feedback on the region's economic progress and future plans.

Mwassa outlined several major ongoing projects, including the construction of 265.4 kilometres of strategic roads, valued at 340.49bn/-, and the building of five bridges worth 45.2bn/-. Additionally, she highlighted water projects valued at 191bn/, which will benefit over 500,000 people, as well as irrigation projects worth 2.9bn/-.

The RC also urged greater investment in the hospitality sector, noting that Kagera currently lacks sufficient facilities to host large conferences, such as those of the East African Community (EAC).

Eng. Emmanuel Mayanga from the President’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG) provided updates on urban development projects in Bukoba. 

These include the construction of 10.75 kilometres of new roads, the installation of over 800 streetlights to improve night-time security, the enhancement of Kanoni riverbanks, and the upgrading of local markets.

The event marked a significant step in showcasing Kagera’s potential and attracting both local and international investors to contribute to the region’s sustainable development.