Mlimba

Mlimba is a significant administrative area located within the Morogoro Region of Tanzania, functioning as both a ward and a district council. The Mlimba District Council spans an expansive area of 11,025 square kilometers and is home to a population of 292,536 residents. The Mlimba ward itself recorded a population of 23,984 in 2022. The region's name is historically linked to a notable elder who resided near a river source, assisting railway engineers with wild game and fish during the construction of the TAZARA railway, which contributed to the area's popularity.The geography of Mlimba is characterized by a large valley, making it highly conducive to agriculture. The primary economic activity revolves around farming, with rice (mpunga) being the dominant food and cash crop, cultivated by nearly all residents. Other crops grown include sesame, maize, potatoes, and cassava. Beyond cultivation, beekeeping and fishing are also practiced, contributing to the local economy. Opportunities for investment are present in the rice trade, teak tree farming, and further development of fishing activities.Mlimba experiences a temperate climate, with average temperatures fluctuating between 11.2°C in July and 27.4°C in November. The area receives an average of 990mm of rainfall annually over approximately 92 rainy days, with January being the wettest month and July the driest. Sunshine is abundant, particularly in August.Transportation to Mlimba is facilitated by both road and rail. The road route from Dar es Salaam passes through Morogoro, Mikumi, and Ifakara, though the section from Ifakara to Mlimba is unpaved. The TAZARA railway provides a crucial and reliable year-round transport link, connecting Dar es Salaam to Kapiri Mposhi in Zambia, and is widely utilized by the local populace. The Mlimba District Council is structured into two divisions, 16 wards, 62 villages, and 243 hamlets, reflecting its organized local governance.