MWE Correspondent
Tanzania’s opposition party, the Civic United Front (CUF), has unveiled an ambitious plan to expand the country’s financial sector by opening the door for more stock and capital markets to operate alongside the Dar es Salaam Stock Exchange (DSE).
The proposal, outlined in the party’s 2025–2030 election manifesto, aims to boost investment, promote competition, and ensure more citizens benefit from the nation’s growing economy.
According to the manifesto, a CUF-led government would introduce new stock exchange platforms to complement the existing DSE. The party believes the move would give investors, companies, and ordinary citizens a wider range of options to buy and sell shares, helping to create a more dynamic and inclusive financial environment.
The document emphasizes that strengthening the capital markets would support national development by channeling funds into key sectors such as agriculture, industry, commerce, and services. CUF’s proposal places special focus on transparency and broad participation, ensuring that Tanzanians with savings or small investments can actively engage in the economy through share ownership.
To make investing more accessible, the manifesto highlights plans to enhance digital tools like the “Hisa Kiganjani” platform, which would allow users to trade and learn about the stock market in both Kiswahili and English. This mobile-based service would also share real-time updates about initial public offerings (IPOs), giving citizens better access to new investment opportunities through their phones.
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In addition, CUF promises to integrate the DSE’s systems with mobile-money payment networks, making it easier for investors to receive dividends and manage their accounts. The party also intends to tighten financial regulations, requiring listed companies to maintain transparent accounting practices and undergo rigorous audits to build investor confidence.
While CUF’s proposal has attracted attention for its ambition, financial experts note that successful implementation will depend heavily on regulatory reforms, investor education, and clear guidelines for new market operators. Observers also point out that the Dar es Salaam Stock Exchange, established in 1996, already plays a central role in Tanzania’s economy but faces challenges in attracting smaller companies to list their shares.
If the plan is enacted, Tanzania could see a new era of financial inclusion and competition in the capital markets — one where ordinary citizens have greater access to investment opportunities and where companies can more easily raise funds to grow. However, much will depend on whether future reforms can balance innovation with strong oversight to protect investors and maintain public trust.
