Tanzania seeks solutions from local research to drive economic growth

Arusha. The government has called on researchers in Tanzania to prioritise efforts towards economic research that yields practical solutions for national challenges, rather than relying on foreign studies and innovations.

Deputy Prime Minister Doto Biteko issued such a call while opening the third international conference on business management and sustainable economics for 2024, hosted by the Tanzania Institute of Accountancy (TIA) in Arusha.

Represented by the Minister of State in the Office of the President for Public Service Management and Good Governance, Mr George Simbachawene, Dr Biteko stressed that Tanzania cannot achieve sustainable economic progress by depending on innovations and research from developed countries, especially in a highly competitive global environment.

“In today’s economic competition, only research with tangible outcomes will foster development. We understand our own challenges best, and foreign solutions often fail to address our economic needs,” Dr Biteko said.

“To tackle issues in sectors like agriculture, livestock, business, and investment, we need solutions developed from our own research that can directly benefit our people, not just stay on paper,” he added.

He also called on economists and researchers to honestly assess the impact of government-led economic projects, urging them to shift focus from minor issues to the broader achievements.

“The government has implemented numerous strategic projects aimed at economic growth, but the results often go unnoticed. Experts, as policymakers, we need your support to substantiate our accomplishments with evidence, rather than have our successes downplayed by focusing on minor flaws,” he noted.

He further highlighted that researchers should help to communicate the tangible achievements made in sectors such as health, transport infrastructure, energy, and higher education loans, rather than overlooking significant advancements by focusing on smaller criticisms.

“Innovation isn’t exclusive to academics—some discoveries are made by individuals without formal education. We must foster an environment that supports these grassroots efforts and ensures their success,” he emphasised.

Deputy Minister for Industry and Trade, Mr Exaud Kigahe, reiterated the government's commitment to creating a conducive environment for business and investment, essential for inclusive and sustainable development.

“The government’s current priorities include policy frameworks and infrastructure to reduce the cost of business and investment, accelerate economic activity and public services, and alleviate income poverty,” Mr Kigahe said.

“This conference provides a valuable platform for both local and international economic experts to exchange insights. The findings from the discussions should form the basis for policies that address business and economic challenges. Use this opportunity wisely over the next three days and ensure the resolutions you make benefit the country,” he said.

TIA’s chief executive officer, Prof William Palangyo, noted that the conference gathered researchers, policymakers, business stakeholders, and those involved in economic growth to share insights on the best approaches for addressing business and economic development challenges.

“This event aligns with our Institution’s role in advancing business and economic expertise for Tanzania. We are here with colleagues from across Africa to share experiences and address challenges in our pursuit of economic growth,” Prof Palangyo said.