Tenants of the National Housing Corporation (NHC) in Arusha, Tanzania, have begun relocating from their properties after an extended 90-day notice period expired on September 30, 2026. The NHC properties, located along Nyamezi and Sokoine streets, are being vacated to make way for a redevelopment project aimed at modernizing the area. The relocation process has been met with mixed reactions from tenants, who have expressed concerns about the short notice period and the impact on their businesses.
Some tenants have occupied the NHC properties for between 30 and 40 years and have invested significantly in improving their business premises. However, they claim that the relocation process has not adequately considered their investments or the length of time they have occupied the properties. Finding alternative business premises at short notice has proven difficult, as many commercial properties in Arusha are leased on an annual basis, with landlords typically expecting new tenants from January.
The area earmarked for redevelopment comprises approximately 40 commercial shops and 50 residential units in central Arusha. Tenants have reported difficulties in securing new premises, with some landlords requiring a full year's rent upfront. One tenant stated that they had tried to find premises in the city centre but were unsuccessful, and may have to wait until January when some tenants leave.
Tenants operating businesses in the affected properties have expressed concerns about potential losses, particularly for perishable goods that may deteriorate before they can find new premises. Some have attempted to meet with officials to request more time to relocate, but so far, no extensions have been granted. As a result, tenants may have to temporarily store their goods in storage facilities while searching for alternative premises.
NHC Arusha regional manager Nistas Mvungi has issued a warning to tenants leaving the properties, cautioning them against removing or damaging fixtures and infrastructure installed in the buildings. In a notice, Mvungi specified that tenants occupying certain plots along Sokoine Street were prohibited from removing doors, windows, frames, and other fixtures.
The NHC has stated that the redevelopment project aims to modernize the area in line with Arusha's growth and its current and future status as a major city. The corporation claims that the project will provide tenants with improved premises from which to operate their businesses. Existing tenants are expected to be among the first beneficiaries once the project is completed.
The NHC redevelopment project is expected to bring significant changes to the area, with the corporation aiming to provide a more modern and efficient business environment for tenants. While some tenants have expressed concerns about the relocation process, the NHC maintains that the project will ultimately benefit the community and support the growth of Arusha as a major city.
Key points
- The NHC's redevelopment project aims to modernize the area and provide improved premises for tenants.
- Tenants have expressed concerns about the short notice period and the impact on their businesses.
- The relocation process has been challenging for tenants, with many struggling to find alternative premises.
