Joseph Isangura
Tanzania has officially announced that it will stop importing steel, thanks to a major boost in local production.
The decision marks a significant step in the country’s industrial journey, as local factories now produce more than double the national demand.
During a visit to a steel manufacturing plant in Mkuranga District, Coast Region, the Minister of State in the President’s Office (Planning and Investment), Professor Kitila Mkumbo, highlighted the country’s growing capacity. He noted that Tanzania now has 19 major steel industries that are fully capable of meeting domestic needs.
“With a production capacity of 1.2 million tonnes and a local demand of only 600,000 tonnes, we are confident that Tanzania no longer needs to import steel,” said Prof. Mkumbo.
The growth of the steel industry is a major boost for Tanzania’s economy, creating jobs and strengthening regional trade. The minister emphasized that the government is committed to supporting local industries to ensure they continue growing.
The expansion of the steel sector has also opened opportunities for exports to neighboring countries like Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. However, Prof. Mkumbo stressed that the priority remains ensuring that Tanzania benefits first from its industrial progress before focusing on international markets.
Also Read; UK Announces $2.8 Billion Loan to
Ukraine
During the visit, Members of Parliament from the Dar es Salaam Region also showed their support for the government’s move to strengthen local industries. Mariam Kisangi, the Chair of Dar es Salaam MPs, noted that strong partnerships between the government and investors are essential for economic growth.
Investment experts say the rapid development of Tanzania’s steel industry is a clear sign that the country is moving toward industrial self-sufficiency. James Maziku, the Director of Investment Facilitation at the Tanzania Investment Centre, said that having a strong local steel industry not only saves foreign exchange but also strengthens Tanzania’s position in regional trade.
With the government’s focus on industrialization, Tanzania is now looking ahead to further expanding its manufacturing sector, ensuring that locally produced goods continue to meet both national and regional demand.
