THE Dodoma Regional Commissioner, Rosemary Senyamule, has called on experts and local leaders to create a supportive and welcoming environment for investors in the region, emphasising the need to ensure that investors feel appreciated and encouraged to operate in the area.

Speaking during a meeting with technical officers from Chamwino and Chemba districts, alongside the Chinese investor from Mainland Sunflower Oil Factory, Senyamule stressed the importance of collaboration and land allocation for sunflower farming.

The meeting, held at her office in Dodoma City, focused on identifying suitable land for sunflower cultivation to supply raw materials for the Mainland factory located in Veyula, Dodoma.

“We are actively encouraging investment in Dodoma under our slogan ‘Take Dodoma to the World and Bring the World to Dodoma’. Today, you have brought China to Dodoma. Mainland is here, and it is our responsibility to ensure that you enjoy being part of this region. This team from Chamwino and Chemba is here because their land is highly suitable for sunflower production,” she said.

Assistant Regional Administrative Secretary for Economic and Productive Sectors, Aziza Mumba, pointed out that a combined effort between the two districts could meet the factory’s raw material needs.

 Chemba has 3,000 hectares of suitable farmland, while Chamwino boasts 9,000 hectares, all fit for sunflower cultivation.

Mainland factory president Kim Zhucher affirmed his commitment to supporting local farmers by providing improved sunflower seeds every season. “New and high-quality seeds will help increase productivity, attract more investment, and position Dodoma as the sunflower production hub of Tanzania,” he stated.

The Mainland sunflower oil factory in Veyula currently requires 100,000 tonnes of raw materials annually. The meeting with district experts aimed to strategise how to ensure a stable supply to the factory.

Despite current sunflower production in Dodoma reaching 250,000 tonnes per year, concerted efforts are needed to meet growing industrial demands.