THE Tanzania Investment Centre (TIC) has reported a remarkable increase in investment projects in the Northern Zone, with figures for 2024 nearly doubling those of the previous year.

Speaking at the ongoing Kili Fair in Arusha at the weekend, TIC Northern Zone Manager Veronica Mrema described the growth as a strong indication of rising investor confidence and improved access to investment services.

“In 2023, we registered 500 projects worth 5bn/-,” she stated. “But in 2024, that number rose to 901 projects with a total value of 9.3bn/- . This growth reflects the impact of our efforts to decentralize and make services more accessible.”

She noted that majority of the registered projects are owned by local investors and focus primarily on tourism and agriculture—two sectors vital to Tanzania’s economic development and long-term sustainability.

Mrema credited the establishment of TIC’s zonal offices, including the one in Arusha, as a key factor behind the increase in project registrations. 

“Our presence in the Northern Zone has reduced the burden on entrepreneurs who previously had to travel to Dar es Salaam to access our services. Now, they can engage with us directly and benefit from available incentives,” she said.

Rachel Charles, a local entrepreneur attending the fair, echoed the sentiment. “I’m impressed that TIC has opened an office in the Northern Zone. It has made it easier to register my business and access investment incentives. This has really helped us grow.”

The Kili Fair, one of East Africa’s largest tourism and investment events, continues to attract stakeholders from across the region, offering a crucial platform for networking, collaboration and showcasing Tanzania’s investment opportunities.

With increased participation from local investors and ongoing support from TIC, the Northern Zone is rapidly emerging as a cornerstone of Tanzania’s investment landscape.