THE National Economic Empowerment Council (NEEC) through ‘Strengthening the Economy with Mama Samia’ programme has urged women, youths, and special groups in Mtwara Region to register to get the qualification to do business with large industries and various government projects to curb poverty and take part in building the country’s economy.

Beng’I Issa, NEEC executive secretary made the remarks here on Tuesday when the council introduced the programme in Mtwara Region, saying the groups need to register and meet the criteria so that they can be connected to do business with industries and various ongoing government projects to get rid of low incomes and participate in the country’s economy.

“Mtwara Region has the opportunity of large industries and various government projects that are being implemented and coming. You will be connected with it commercially to participate in building the national economy,” said Beng’I.

She also said that the Mtwara Region has a lot going on, including gas, airport, and port expansion, so those groups will be required to provide services such as cement, sand, pebbles, and even food, protection, and hygiene activities.

She further noted that investments made by foreigners or local businessmen must have a plan to involve Tanzanians in finding skilled and unskilled jobs and providing various services.

Beng” I said that to get those opportunities they need to organize themselves to be in those groups or individually and be registered, have NIDA credentials, bank accounts, and have business and capital, and that will help to get real statistics and plan the priorities of the region

She said that the programme has two phases, the first one is to get information and create a database and the second phase is to provide empowerment and the program is for the whole country.

Mtwara Regional Commissioner, Patrick Sawala said that they have received the programme and will implement it together with experts to ensure that citizens use the opportunity to participate in the economy of their country.

"We have presented a program and I ask the citizens to use the opportunities of agriculture, breeding, fishing, and agro-processing," he said, adding that the region also has seaweed cultivation, rooster breeding, cultural tourism, and visiting parks.

He said that all the villages and townships in the region are hoping to get electric energy which will be a springboard for starting small industries and businesses to help develop products for the people.

One of the Mtwara residents Khadija Mela said that those who have started business should continue and those who are not in business should join groups or individuals to get empowerment.