The Tanzania Association of Small Industries Owners and Small Producers (TASSIM), in collaboration with the Ministry of Industry and Trade, has organized the Tanzania Small Scale Industries Exhibition, scheduled for the end of October in Dodoma.

The exhibition will take place from October 28 to November 1, 2024, at the Jakaya Kikwete Convention Center. Its main goal is to celebrate the significant contribution of small industries in strengthening Tanzania's economy.

Speaking in Dar es Salaam over the weekend, TASSIM Chairperson Ali Masoud announced the event during the launch of the Small Industries Day (TAMISID). He emphasized the importance of the exhibition, which is expected to gather over 1,000 participants, including small industry owners, producers, and policymakers.

Other attendees will include industry professionals and representatives from both the public and private sectors. More than 500 participants are expected to showcase innovative products and services, promote networking, and engage in insightful discussions about the industry.

Masoud explained that the objectives of Tanzania's Small Industries Day are broad, aiming to amplify the voices of the small industries community and celebrate their significant role in the development of the nation's economy. The event seeks to foster creativity and competition among small industries while raising awareness of their contribution to economic sustainability and growth.

Additionally, the exhibition will highlight the achievements of small industries, showcasing their critical role in driving economic progress. It will also provide an opportunity for businesses to connect and explore potential collaborations, further promoting growth opportunities in the sector.

The exhibition will also offer educational insights, with discussions on industry trends, best practices, and strategies for overcoming challenges faced by small-scale industries. Participants will have the chance to engage with key industry stakeholders, including financial institutions, policymakers, civil society representatives, and academics.

The Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Industry and Trade, Dr. John Simbachawene, invited citizens and stakeholders to participate in a meeting aimed at improving the new Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) policy.

Dr. Simbachawene explained that the government had gathered feedback in the first phase of consultations and will now hold a second phase in Dodoma for those who missed the initial opportunity. He urged citizens, entrepreneurs, and businesspeople to attend and provide their opinions to help shape the policy.

"The Ministry continues to work on the new SMEs policy, and we have called a meeting for stakeholders in Dodoma to contribute their opinions in this second phase. This will help finalize the policy and enable it to support our nation's economic development," said Dr. Simbachawene.

He added that one of the key objectives of Small Industries Day is to raise awareness of the sector's contribution to the economy while encouraging creativity and innovation within the industry.