#IPU153

153^rd Assembly of the
Inter-Parliamentary Union

October 5 – 9, 2026

Arusha International Conference Centre, Arusha — TANZANIA

Welcome to the Host Parliament website of the 153rd Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly to be held on 5–9 October 2026 in Arusha, Tanzania. This website contains detailed information on logistical aspects of the Assembly including entry visas, accommodation, local transportation, and more. For all official documents and outcomes of the 153rd IPU Assembly, please refer to the IPU website.

Welcome Message

Welcome Message from the Speaker of the National Assembly

Hon. Mussa Azzan Zungu, Speaker of the National Assembly of the United Republic of Tanzania

Distinguished Speakers of Parliament,
Honourable Members of Parliament,
Esteemed Delegates,

It is my great honour and privilege to welcome you to Arusha, Tanzania, on the occasion of the 153rd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), to be held from 5 to 9 October 2026. On behalf of the National Assembly of the United Republic of Tanzania, I extend our warmest Karibu — welcome — to the international parliamentary community.

We gather at a time when the world faces unprecedented challenges: from the enduring impacts of climate change and widening inequalities, to threats to peace and democratic governance across regions. In this context, our meeting in Arusha is a powerful affirmation of the role of parliamentary diplomacy in building bridges of understanding, cooperation, and shared resolve.

Parliaments, as the voice of the people, carry the sacred responsibility of safeguarding peace, justice, and the dignity of every individual. Your presence here to exchange ideas and forge common solutions to global challenges is a testament to the strength of our collective commitment.

Tanzania is deeply honoured to host the IPU Assembly for the first time. This milestone reflects our nation's longstanding dedication to multilateralism, Pan-African solidarity, and the belief that dialogue is the most powerful instrument for resolving differences and advancing shared prosperity.

It is especially meaningful that we convene in Arusha — a city renowned as a cradle of African diplomacy. As the seat of the African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights, the headquarters of the East African Community, and the historic site of the Arusha Declaration, this city embodies Tanzania's enduring commitment to unity, justice, and self-reliance. Nestled at the foot of Mount Meru, with the majesty of Mount Kilimanjaro on the horizon, Arusha offers a setting of unparalleled natural beauty that will, I am certain, inspire our deliberations.

Since its founding in 1889, the IPU has served as a unique and indispensable platform for parliaments to work together in the pursuit of peace, democracy, and sustainable development. The theme of our Assembly calls upon all of us to translate these principles into concrete action — to legislate with courage, to oversee with diligence, and to represent our peoples with unwavering integrity.

I am confident that the discussions and exchanges in Arusha will further deepen parliamentary dialogue and contribute meaningfully to our shared endeavour of building a more peaceful, equitable, and prosperous world for current and future generations.

On this occasion, I wish our Assembly every success and extend my warmest regards to all delegations. I also hope that the rich cultural heritage, abundant natural wonders, and legendary hospitality of Tanzania will make your visit truly unforgettable.

Karibu Tanzania. Karibu Arusha.

Mussa Azzan ZUNGU
Speaker of the National Assembly of the United Republic of Tanzania

General Debate

Theme of the General Debate of the 153rd Assembly of the IPU

“Strengthening parliamentary action for peace, equality, and sustainable development in a changing world”

The general debate theme of the 153rd Assembly calls upon parliaments worldwide to address the profound challenges confronting the global community. In an era of accelerating change — driven by technological transformation, shifting geopolitical dynamics, and the climate crisis — the role of elected representatives in shaping inclusive policies and holding governments accountable has never been more critical.

This theme invites parliamentarians to explore how legislative action can advance the Sustainable Development Goals, promote gender equality and youth participation, strengthen the rule of law, and foster a culture of peace. The concept note will provide the fundamental framework for the Assembly sessions, key discussion topics, and expected outcomes.

The Venue

Arusha International Conference Centre

The AICC is one of Africa's premier conference venues, located in the heart of Arusha. With a total function space of over 5,400 square metres and 26 meeting rooms, it offers world-class facilities for international gatherings of this scale.

26 Meeting Rooms

1,350 Simba Hall Capacity

3,000+ Total Delegate Capacity

5,400 Sq. Metres Function Space

AICC — Modern Conference Wing

Simba Hall — Main Auditorium

Conference Hall — Plenary Sessions

AICC Complex — Aerial View

AICC Entrance — International Flags

For Delegates

Practical Information

Essential details for all participants attending the 153rd IPU Assembly in Arusha, Tanzania.

Entry Visas

Most international delegates require a visa to enter Tanzania. The e-Visa is strongly recommended and can be obtained online at eservices.immigration.go.tz.

Single-entry e-Visa: USD 50
Processing time: 3–10 business days
Passport validity: minimum 6 months with 2+ blank pages
Visa on arrival also available at Kilimanjaro International Airport

Participants requiring assistance with visa facilitation are requested to contact the Secretariat as early as possible.

Getting There

Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is the main international gateway, located approximately 60 km east of Arusha. Shuttle transfers will be arranged by the Host Parliament for registered delegates.

Arusha Airport (ARK) serves regional flights from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, and other domestic destinations.

The Host Parliament will provide a Welcome Desk at Kilimanjaro International Airport during the Assembly period.

Accommodation

Participants are responsible for arranging their own accommodation. The Host Parliament has designated several official hotels near the AICC:

Gran Meliá Arusha — 5-star, adjacent to AICC
Mount Meru Hotel — 4-star, walking distance
Four Points by Sheraton Arusha — 4-star, city centre
The Arusha Hotel — heritage hotel, central location

Detailed booking information and negotiated rates will be communicated to registered delegations.

Weather & Climate

October in Arusha is warm and mostly dry, an excellent time to visit.

Daytime temperature: 28–31°C
Nighttime temperature: 14–17°C
Rainfall: minimal (approx. 54 mm, ~5 rain days)
Sunshine: approximately 9 hours per day
UV Index: Very high — sunscreen and hats recommended

Light formal attire is advised. A light jacket may be useful for evenings.

Currency & Payments

The official currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). The US Dollar is widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and major establishments in Arusha.

ATMs are available throughout the city and at the AICC. Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted at most hotels and large establishments. Delegates are advised to carry some local currency for smaller transactions.

Emergency & Medical

First-aid services and medical staff will be available at the Assembly venue throughout the event.

Emergency number: 112 / 114
Police: 112
Fire: 114

Delegates under special medical treatment are advised to bring sufficient medication. The Secretariat should be informed of any specific medical, dietary, or mobility requirements during registration.

Discover

Visit Arusha & Tanzania

Arusha is often called “the Geneva of Africa” — a city that has long stood at the crossroads of diplomacy, culture, and nature. As the seat of the African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights and the headquarters of the East African Community, Arusha carries a unique place in the continent's history of unity and justice.

Gateway to the Wild

Arusha is the safari capital of East Africa, serving as the gateway to the world-renowned Serengeti National Park, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tarangire National Park, and the nearby Arusha National Park — home to diverse wildlife, lush forests, and the stunning Momella Lakes at the foot of Mount Meru.

Mount Meru & Kilimanjaro

Rising majestically above the city, Mount Meru (4,566 m) provides a breathtaking backdrop to Arusha. Just 100 kilometres to the east stands Mount Kilimanjaro — Africa's highest peak and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Both mountains offer world-class trekking experiences for adventurous delegates.

A City of History & Culture

Arusha is steeped in history, from the landmark Arusha Declaration of 1967 to the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda. Today, it is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city where Maasai heritage meets modernity, and local markets brim with Tanzanite gemstones, traditional crafts, and aromatic coffee from the surrounding highlands.

153rd Assembly of theInter-Parliamentary Union