Kigoma Regional Commissioner Simon Sirro has extended an invitation to investors from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Burundi to capitalize on the region's vast potential in industrial, trade, agriculture, fishing, and tourism sectors. This call was made during the closure of the Lake Tanganyika International Expo 2026, held at the Community Centre grounds in Kigoma-Ujiji Municipality. The expo, which took place from September 16 to 22, 2026, brought together traders and stakeholders from Tanzania, Burundi, and the DRC.
The Lake Tanganyika International Expo 2026 provided a platform for cross-border trade and investment promotion, connecting producers with markets, attracting investors and development partners, and encouraging the use of technology and innovation to boost trade, employment, and incomes. According to Sirro, the event enabled traders, government institutions, and stakeholders to identify available investment and business opportunities in Kigoma. He highlighted the Kigoma Special Economic Zone (KiSEZ) as a key area for investment and industrial development.
The expo's theme, "Kigoma is a wellspring of opportunities and investment," resonated with participants, including 128 exhibitors comprising eight companies, eight government institutions, three financial institutions, 88 entrepreneurs from Tanzania, 16 traders from Burundi, and five participants from the DRC. Sirro emphasized that the event sought to strengthen economic diplomacy in the Lake Tanganyika region, fostering cooperation among traders, institutions, and investors to drive economic growth in participating countries.
Tanganyika Province Minister for Mines in the DRC, Mr. Mateka Simplis, acknowledged the growing trade relations between Tanzania and the DRC, expressing optimism about further expanding economic cooperation between the two nations. He noted that the DRC relies on various products from Tanzania and encouraged Tanzanian traders to strengthen ties with their Congolese counterparts to facilitate market access on both sides.
DRC Consulate representative Adalbert Nininahazwe praised the expo, suggesting that it should be held regularly due to its significant contribution to strengthening economic cooperation and relations among participating countries. The event was part of broader efforts to promote trade and investment along the Lake Tanganyika corridor, aiming to fortify economic ties between Tanzania and neighboring countries.
The Kigoma region offers a range of investment opportunities, particularly in the industrial, agricultural, and tourism sectors. Sirro's invitation to investors from the DRC and Burundi underscores the region's potential for economic growth through strategic partnerships. By leveraging these opportunities, investors can tap into the region's resources and contribute to the economic development of the area.
As the Lake Tanganyika International Expo 2026 came to a close, stakeholders and participants looked forward to future events that could build on the momentum generated. The success of the expo highlighted the importance of such platforms in promoting cross-border trade and investment, ultimately driving economic growth and development in the region.
Key points
- Kigoma Regional Commissioner Simon Sirro invites investors from DRC and Burundi to explore opportunities in industrial, trade, agriculture, fishing, and tourism sectors.
- The Lake Tanganyika International Expo 2026 attracted 128 participants from Tanzania, Burundi, and the DRC, promoting cross-border trade and investment.
- The Kigoma Special Economic Zone (KiSEZ) is highlighted as a key area for investment and industrial development.
