BY DAVID CHIKOKO
Vice-President Deogratius Ndejembi has directed the revival of dormant rose farms in Arusha to restore export earnings, attract investors and create employment.
Speaking at the opening of the HortiLogistica Africa 2026 on November 9, the VP instructed the Agriculture Ministry to engage private partners and restore the existing production infrastructure to use. “We need to attract investors in flower farming, vegetables and spices,” he said.
The initiative targets seven former flower estates occupying 2,107.6 acres on Mount Meru’s southern slopes. Their recovery would restore an industry that once connected local communities with international markets.
Arusha’s rose business blossomed during the 1990s, supplying European buyers, particularly in the Netherlands. Favourable highland conditions encouraged investment in greenhouses and export facilities. Before becoming idle, the seven estates collectively generated about $24.5 million annually in foreign exchange and supported 4,010 direct jobs, alongside livelihoods in related businesses.
Mr Ndejembi also emphasised that horticultural farming must meet international quality standards to compete globally and command better returns. He urged growers to respond to buyers’ requirements while calling for improved storage and transportation to minimise losses.
Agriculture Minister, Daniel Chongolo, highlighted the sector’s economic importance: “It contributes to food security, nutrition, brings foreign exchange and creates employment for youths and women,” he said.
The Tanzania Horticultural Association (TAHA) Chief Executive Officer, Dr Jacqueline Mkindi, said the ambition extended beyond Tanzania, aiming to strengthen Africa’s competitiveness in the horticultural trade and enable producers to capture greater value from their crops.
The inaugural HortiLogistica Africa exhibition ran from November 8 -10, 2026 at Arusha’s TGT grounds. Organised by TAHA with government support, it attracted more than 3,000 delegates from over 40 countries, connecting growers, exporters, investors, technology providers and international buyers.
