BARIADI District Commissioner Simon Simalenga has lauded Kilimanjaro One Travel and Tours Limited for complementing the government’s efforts in promoting cultural tourism in Bariadi, Simiyu.

The DC made the remarks when the Kilimanjaro One top officials paid him a courtesy call at his office to brief him about the forthcoming Lake Zone Cultural and Tourism Festival set to take place in Bariadi, Simiyu from July 5-7.

“This event is in line with President Samia Suluhu’s ambition to see all district councils prepare such festivals that aim at promoting culture and tourism,” he said.

He further pledged the government’s support in the festival and reminded the organizers that the Sukuma people richly treasure their culture and are always proud of promoting it to the public.

“We want other people to come and see the Sukuma culture and we believe this will attract a lot of traffic to Simiyu which is rich in cultural heritage and other tourist attractions,” he said.

The DC called on all institutions, ranging from parastatals to private ones, operating in the area to ensure they support the initiative given the festival will go hand in hand with exhibitions hence sponsors will get the chance to promote their products and services.

He also urged the organizers to ensure they promote the event widely via media and public address systems to ensure as many people as possible get the message and turn up.

Kilimanjaro One Travel and Tours Director, Mohamed Khatibu said his company was all set to host the festival, which will be held for the first time, and will later take place annually in the district.

Khatibu revealed: “We hope to bring together about 7,000 people to the festival which will seek to promote the Mbina festival, which is normally the climax of the harvest season among the Sukuma people."

He said the event expects to attract local and international tourists in Bariadi adding that it is high time the world knew about the rich culture that Simiyu as a region holds.

He further told the DC that preparations for the event are on top gear and there will be a series of activities, adding that the event will be free to the public. The official noted: “This will be a big event of international standards."