Mwanza is Tanzania’s second largest town and the economic heart of the Lake Region. Mwanza is located in the extreme northern part of Tanzania Mainland dominated by Africa’s largest lake - Lake Victoria. The location - on the southern shore of Lake Victoria and the altitude - 1,134 m above sea level - ensures a fresh breeze, a very friendly humidity and a nice temperature throughout the year.
The town looks onto the lake, which includes dramatic views of the Bismarck Rock - a massive outcrop of granite rocks.
Mwanza is arguably the fastest growing settlement in Tanzania; with substantial growth in financial, industrial and local investment sectors. However, the economy of the city; and the region, as a whole, is dominated by smallholder agriculture employing about 85 percent of the region's population and complemented by an expanding fisheries sector.
Commercial fishing is carried out by big fishing companies using modern fishing gear and vessels. Agriculture takes second position followed by mining in recent days. Maize, cassava and sweet potatoes constitute about 71 percent of all food crops grown in the region.
The growth of tourism has come from a vast beauty of its surrounding area and its proximity to the various national parks and Mwanza is a convenient starting point for trips to the islands in Lake Victoria.
