Tenants of the National Housing Corporation (NHC) in Arusha have started moving out of its properties after a 90-day notice expired on June 30 and was later extended to September 30, 2026.
The tenants, who live and operate businesses in NHC properties along Nyamezi and Sokoine streets, are leaving to make way for the redevelopment of the sites.
However, some tenants say the process has not adequately considered the investments they have made to improve their business premises or the length of time they have occupied the properties.
Speaking to Mwananchi on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, the tenants, who requested anonymity, said some had occupied the properties for between 30 and 40 years.
They said finding alternative business premises at short notice had proved difficult because many commercial properties in the city are leased on an annual basis, with some landlords only expecting new tenants from January.
The area earmarked for redevelopment has about 40 commercial shops and 50 residential units in central Arusha.
‘One decision I have made is to take all my goods home. I have tried to find premises in the city centre but have not succeeded. Landlords require a full year’s rent, so it is difficult to find vacant premises at the moment. They are telling us that we may have to wait until January when some tenants leave,’ said one tenant.
Another tenant who operates a general merchandise shop said they had tried to meet various officials to seek more time to avoid losses, particularly for goods that could deteriorate before January.
The tenant said the lack of an extension meant they would have to move their goods to storage facilities temporarily while looking for alternative premises.
Meanwhile, NHC Arusha regional manager Nistas Mvungi has warned tenants leaving the properties against removing or damaging fixtures and infrastructure installed in the buildings.
In a notice, Mr Mvungi said tenants occupying plots numbered 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 12, Block B, along Sokoine Street were prohibited from removing doors, windows, frames and other fixtures.
‘Tenants are prohibited from breaking or removing any property installed in the buildings, including doors, windows, frames and other fixtures. Items fixed to the buildings are the property of the corporation. Water and electricity systems should also be left intact,’ he said.
NHC said the redevelopment project would help modernise the area in line with Arusha’s growth and its current and future status as a major city.
The corporation said the development was also intended to provide tenants with improved premises from which to operate their businesses.
It added that existing tenants would be among the first beneficiaries once the project is completed.