PRESIDENT Samia Suluhu Hassan is scheduled to officiate the upcoming National Livestock Forum aimed at advancing Tanzania’s livestock sector.

Mrida Mshota, Chairperson of Tanzania Livestock Keepers Association (CCWT), told reporters in Mwanza on Monday that the event will take place from May 15 to 18 in Bariadi District, Simiyu Region.

More than 200,000 livestock keepers are expected to attend, marking President Samia’s first direct engagement with the pastoralist community since launching sector-wide consultations.

“It’s a chance for livestock keepers to present their challenges and share their achievements with the president,” he said.

He highlighted recent government efforts, including the construction of 754 cattle dips (exceeding the 105-target), procurement of 52,000 litres of veterinary medicine and allotment of 28.1bn/- for the livestock vaccination campaign.

The initiatives, Mshota added, are designed to upgrade the livestock value chain, bringing Tanzanian meat products to international standards and opening global markets and spurring trade and job creation.

“The forum will promote modern, sustainable livestock keeping through education, technology and best practices in productivity, quality and environmental conservation—all aligned with national climate goals,” he said.

CCWT Ambassador Aloyce Nyanda announced that the forum will run under the theme ‘Livestock Keepers and Sustainable Development.’ Awards will be given to outstanding contributors to inspire sector-wide excellence.

“Keepers will showcase their work, tap into new markets and boost their incomes. The forum will also connect them with investors and financial institutions,” Nyanda noted.