Tanzania is determined to establish itself as a hub for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism in Africa, as part of a new strategy to boost the economy and attract investment.
Speaking at the MICE Stakeholders Forum held in Dar es Salaam, Mr. Ernest Mwamaja, representing the Secretary General of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, stated that the government views meeting tourism as a vital product with the potential to increase revenue and stimulate economic activities throughout the year.
"Officially entering this sector will place Tanzania on the global map benefiting from this type of tourism," Mwamaja remarked.
At the forum, the Tanzania Tourism Board (TTB) provided an update on current developments, including the construction of a new conference hall capable of accommodating 5,000 people in Arusha, a move aimed at attracting major international meetings.
Ms. Mariam Ndabagenga, Director of Popular Links, emphasized that Tanzania possesses all the necessary resources to become a leader in MICE. "Tanzania has natural attractions, excellent infrastructure, and skilled people. What we need now is to establish a dedicated body to manage this sector," Mariam said.
She explained that MICE tourism attracts high-spending visitors, making it essential to provide them with excellent service so they can contribute more to the economy and visit other attractions in the country.
"Visitors coming for meetings typically have significant financial capacity. They require top-notch services, and when satisfied, they bring in more guests. It is crucial to ensure they do not just stay in Dar es Salaam but also explore our tourism attractions," she elaborated.
He explained that MICE tourism attracts visitors with significant financial means, making it essential to provide them with excellent service so they can contribute more to the economy and explore other attractions in the country.
"Visitors coming for meetings typically have substantial financial resources. They require high-quality services, and when satisfied, they tend to bring more guests. It is crucial to ensure they do not just stay in Dar es Salaam but also visit our tourist attractions," he elaborated.
"Unlike other types of tourism, conference tourism does not have specific seasons, thus helping to generate income throughout the year," he added.
At the event organized by Popular Links in collaboration with the National Arts Council (BASATA), participants also received specialized training on laws, procurement procedures, and contracts through a workshop led by Mr. Paul Bilabaye, a trainer from the Leadership Institute who is also the Secretary of the CHAN Organizing Committee.
This Events Tourism sector presents numerous opportunities for Tanzanians. "The key issue to focus on is providing excellent service in every area," Paul said.
He further reminded stakeholders about the importance of adhering to the execution of the contractual clauses they enter into for these jobs. "If you win a tender today and mess it up, you tarnish the country's reputation, not just your company's," he added.There were also discussions involving experts from TTB, BASATA, TRA, and BRELA on the best ways to simplify business registration and create a friendly investment environment for entrepreneurs and international investors.