Over 3,000 delegates head to Arusha for maiden HortiLogistica Africa 2026

DODOMA: Over 3,000 delegates from 42 countries are expected to meet in Arusha this week for HortiLogistica Africa 2026, the first Pan-African trade fair for fresh produce, scheduled for November 8–10.

The event will bring together horticulture growers, buyers, investors, and logistics partners from around the world to do business under one roof.

Minister of Agriculture Mr Daniel Chongolo announced this in Dodoma on Wednesday, welcoming horticulture stakeholders in the country to attend the continent’s maiden event to learn and connect with prospective buyers and other stakeholders from Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

He said that Vice President Mr Deogratius Ndejembi will officiate at the event.

Tanzania is hosting the strategic event as latest ministry details show that the sector contributes roughly 38 percent of total foreign exchange earnings generated by agricultural exports outside the country, with the latest data showing that export revenues stand at 403bn/-.

Mr. Chongolo said export values increased significantly from 348bn/- in the 2022/2023 period to 403bn/- in the 2023/2024 period, reflecting an overall growth rate of 15.8 percent.

He noted that the ministry had targeted that the country would export 40,000 tonnes of avocado by 2030, but managed to exceed the target four years ahead of schedule. Data indicates that as of this year, Tanzania has already exported 52,000 tonnes of the produce.

He explained that horticulture plays a major role in Tanzania’s economy, employing approximately 6.5 million people domestically. He added that women and youth comprise roughly 70 percent of smallholder farmers engaged in horticultural production.

The exhibition’s core message is “From Our Farms to the World,” highlighting the journey of produce from local farms to international markets.

On her part, the Director of Crop Development at the Ministry of Agriculture, Dr Yasinta Nzogela, said that HortiLogistica Africa 2026 is the first-of-its-kind conference dedicated to Africa, focusing on horticultural logistics.

She explained that horticulture logistics refers to the platform and supply chain systems used to distribute horticultural produce across African markets and globally.

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The director added that similar events and meetings are held in other regions around the world, such as Asia and the Middle East, usually focusing on localized or limited scopes.

“However, Africa—and specifically Tanzania—is serving as the pioneer and founder of this comprehensive logistics platform for the continent,” Dr Nzogela said.

Cereals and Other Produce Regulatory Authority (COPRA) Director General Ms Irene Mlola said horticulture is a major subsector among the 120-plus crop categories managed, with a primary focus on crops such as vegetables, fruits, spices, and flowers.

“A warm welcome is extended to all Tanzanians. While attention is often given to traditional cash crops, horticulture represents a massive, expanding opportunity within the country,” she said.

According to her, the event is a great honor and a landmark platform to celebrate and highlight agricultural achievements. Special recognition and appreciation were directed toward the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, whose guidance and support have driven phenomenal sector developments.

Dr Jacquiline Mkindi, Tanzania Horticulture Association (TAHA) Chief Executive Officer, said her association, as a key partner of the government, is actively involved in preparing HortiLogistica Africa 2026.

She explained that the conference is fundamentally a grand exhibition and multi-sector gathering designed to position Africa—spearheaded by Tanzania—as a major player in horticultural logistics.

The CEO noted that the event will bring together exhibitors, B2B stakeholders, technology manufacturers, buyers, and agricultural experts from Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

“While similar logistical forums exist in Asia and the Middle East, HortiLogistica Africa is unique in giving the entire African continent a unified platform on the global stage,” she added.

By hosting delegates from over 40 countries, the TAHA boss added, the summit reinforces Tanzania’s position as an economic and diplomatic hub in East Africa, fostering robust public-private partnerships (PPPs).

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