SONGEA Airport is poised to begin 24-hour operations following the completion of a 40.87bn/- rehabilitation and expansion project.

Abdul Mombokaleo, the Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA) director general, made this observation when briefing President Samia Suluhu Hassan on the airport expansion project, with the project expected to unlock economic opportunities for local investors in Ruvuma Region.

The airport's runway has undergone significant rehabilitation, increasing in length from 1,625 meters to 1,860 meters, with its width expanded from 23 meters to 30 meters, which stakeholders say meets specifications of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

Mohamed Besta, the Tanzania National Roads Agency (Tanroads) chief executive officer, said that an apron has been enlarged to accommodate four Q400 aircraft and three light aircraft, with renovations to the passenger terminal nearing completion.

The TAA executive affirmed that the project improves available opportunities in Ruvuma Region, while the agency plans to operate the airport in a manner similar to Songwe and Arusha airports.

“We expect considerable rise in passenger traffic through Songea Airport,” he stated, while Works minister Innocent Bashungwa said that renovation has enabled Air Tanzania Co. Ltd (ATCL) to schedule flights to Songea three times a week.

President Samia was on the first day of a six-day working visit to Ruvuma Region, to inspect development projects, visit historical sites and engage with local communities.

At her first rally, the president emphasized the need for tourism stakeholders to invest in innovative strategies to transform the country’s rich culture into viable business opportunities.

By leveraging cultural assets stakeholders can enhance tourism and contribute to economic growth, she said, wrapping up the third national cultural festival at MajiMaji Stadium in Songea municipality yesterday.

President Samia underscored the vital role of culture in the nation’s livelihood, urging its protection and promotion to raise global awareness.

“We must view our culture through a commercial lens, promote it and leverage it to generate income. Our traditional products and innovations, if harnessed effectively, can significantly transform local economies,” she stated. The National Arts Council (BASATA) and other relevant authorities to ensure effective oversight of the cultural sector to achieve the goals.

She further stressed the importance of aligning development with local customs and traditions, as straying from or undermining the traditions could lead to societal regression.

“Embracing what is not ours is akin to slavery. We must invest our efforts in promoting what we possess to attract visitors and foster development,” she said.

She said that the government is rekindling efforts of founder president Julius Nyerere who devoted much energy to protect culture. The festivals set to be held in every region aim to develop, promote and protect Tanzanian culture and traditions, she stated.

Theo government intends to set up 100 Kiswahili teaching centres in various countries, part of a broader initiative to market the language globally.

“Given its growing international significance, these centres will help the Diaspora learn and teach others about our language and culture,” she said, similarly raising the stony issue of moral decay.

She said the problem is first located at the family level, urging parents to closely monitor their children’s behaviour as the rapid advancement of technology was challenging our culture and customs.

The Ministry of Culture, Arts and Sports needs to collaborate with stakeholders in developing recommendations to combat moral decay, she said, to which the minister,

Dr Damas Ndumbaro said the government will persist in investing in the sector, affirming that it is currently experiencing a 17 percent growth rate.

“President Samia has shown great commitment to promoting this sector, allocating substantial funds to support projects, including loans for artists,” he declared, highlighting the festival’s emphasis on embracing President Samia’s 4Rs philosophy of reconciliation, resilience, reform and rebuilding.

This is essential for addressing contemporary social, political and economic challenges, he added.