Arusha city Tanzania

Arusha city Tanzania

Arusha city Tanzania, affectionately called ‘A’ town by the locals, is a city of roughly 400,000 people that is located in the highlands of northeast Tanzania. Furthermore, access to the popular northern safari circuit can be gained via the city. And as such, Arusha is generally known as the Tanzanian safari capital. Arusha boasts a diverse population made up of indigenous Africans, Arabs, Indians, Europeans and Americans. In addition, the city has various religions, namely; Islam, Christianity, Hinduism and Sikhism. The facto capital of the East African Community is also located in Arusha.

Brief history

The present-day location was initially settled in the 1830s by the Arusha Maasai. Grains, honey, beer, and tobacco are some of the trade items the Arusha Maasai were known for. Their trade was primarily with the Kisongo Maasai in exchange for livestock, milk, meat and hides. The Germans first successfully took over the city in 1896. They would go on to establish a more permanent presence in 1900. The British would subsequently take Arusha from the Germans during World War l in 1916. The town grew exponentially the British moved the regional administration to Arusha. Lastly, the declaration of Arusha as a city officially took place on the 1st of July 2006.

Geography

Arusha is located at the foot of Africa’s 5th highest mountain, Mount Meru. The city’s geographical location and altitude give it an extremely pleasant climate. Hence Arusha has a lush green environment. It is also important to note that Arusha experiences a bimodal rainfall pattern. As such the city has two rainy seasons in a year. Another fascinating fact is that Arusha marks the mid-point between Cairo and Cape Town.

Industry and economy

The services sector is Arusha’s core economic mainstay.

1. Business

From retail to commercial enterprises, Arusha has both small and large businesses.

2. Manufacturing

Manufacturing undertaken in the city includes; breweries, agro-forest processing and a large pharmaceuticals producer.

3. Tourism

Tourism is also a significant component of the city of Arusha. Furthermore, tourism is the biggest dollar-earning economic sector in Tanzania.

Transport

Air

Kilimanjaro International Airport and Arusha Airport are the two airports that serve the city. The former airport serves international and domestic air travellers. And the latter is a regional air hub.

Road

Nairobi, Dodoma and Dar es Salaam are some of the various road links that can be used to access Arusha.

Education

Arusha is home to five international schools that include the Arusha Meru International School and Braeburn School. The city also boasts several tertiary institutions for higher education.

Fun facts about Arusha

Cultural diversity

Arusha is home to well over a hundred nationalities. In addition, it is a multicultural and multi-religious city.

Tanzanite

Arusha is the heart of the tanzanite gemstone. The precious blue coloured stone is one of Tanzania’s biggest exports.

Mount Meru

Tanzania’s second highest peak, Mount Meru provides a stunning backdrop to Arusha. Moreover, the more adventurous can scale this dormant volcano.

Museums

Arusha also possesses several museums that showcase Tanzania’s political, cultural and social history. Examples of museums you’ll find in Arusha include; The Arusha Declaration Museum, The National History Museum and The Cultural Heritage Centre.

Shopping

Arusha is also known for offering great shopping experiences. From Maasai fabrics and woven baskets, to curios and crafts, Arusha has something for everyone.

Safaris

One of the biggest reasons to visit Arusha is for the spectacular safaris. For this reason there are excursions into the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater.

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