Tarime

Tarime is a town and administrative district in Mara Region, Tanzania. It is the seat of Tarime District and lies in the northwestern part of the country, inland from Lake Victoria and near the border with Kenya. The district is part of Mara Region, one of Tanzania’s administrative zones in the Lake Victoria basin.

Geography and climate: The area features a low-lying savanna landscape with a tropical climate and distinct wet and dry seasons. Rainfall supports agriculture across rural settlements and nearby productive areas, while the town serves as an inland hub for the surrounding communities.

Economy: The economy is predominantly agricultural. Smallholder farming produces staples such as maize, sorghum, cassava, and beans, along with vegetables and fruit. Livestock keeping is common, and local markets connect rural areas with Tarime Town. In the wider Mara Region, artisanal mining occurs in parts of the district, and small-scale trade and services support the local economy.

Transport and infrastructure: Tarime is served by regional roads that connect it to larger towns and cities, with bus services linking Tarime to Mwanza, Musoma, and other centers. The town has basic educational and health facilities, including primary and secondary schools and district clinics or hospitals in the surrounding area.

Demographics and culture: The district is home to multiple ethnic communities, with Swahili serving as the lingua franca alongside local languages. The population traditionally relies on agriculture and market exchange, with gradual diversification as new services and opportunities develop.

Administration: Tarime Town operates as the administrative center of Tarime District within Mara Region, playing a key role in local governance, service delivery, and regional integration.