• Five SEZs near Dar es Salaam target textiles, pharmaceuticals, automotive, and agri-processing. 
• Investors offered land, tax breaks, and fast-track permits — factories can start in 24 hours. 
• Zones connected to rail and ports to expand exports and create jobs.

On August 12, the Tanzanian Investment and Special Economic Zones Authority (TISEZA) inaugurated five new Special Economic Zones (SEZs) on the outskirts of Dar es Salaam to attract both local and foreign industrial investment. The zones include Buzwagi (1,333 ha), Nala (607 ha), Bagamoyo (151 ha), Kwala (40.5 ha), and an extension of the Benjamin William Mkapa zone (13,000 m²).

Linked to the standard gauge railway and the country’s main ports, the SEZs aim to draw investment in priority sectors such as textiles, pharmaceuticals, automotive assembly, agricultural processing, electronics, and renewable energy.

“It’s not enough to attract investors. We need to make sure they can operate and develop profitably,” said Minister of Planning and Investment Kitila Mkumbo during the inaugration. “Our priority is to align investment projects with national economic objectives and offer fiscal and non-fiscal incentives to support them.”

TISEZA Managing Director Gilead Teri emphasised the ease of setting up manufacturing in Tanzania: “Any Tanzanian who wishes to set up a factory in our zones will receive land free of charge, provided the factory is completed within one year. We have also pre-approved over 200 factory construction plans, enabling investors to obtain building permits and start construction within 24 hours.” Teri added that the TISEZA intends to deploy agents at key border crossings by the end of 2025 to help exporters access regional and global markets.

By offering tax breaks, infrastructure, and streamlined customs, Tanzania seeks to replicate the success of SEZ-driven growth seen in China, South Korea, Hong Kong, and Singapore, positioning itself as Africa’s most business-friendly manufacturing hub.

This article was initially reported in French by Walid Kéfi

Edited in English by Ola Schad Akinocho