In the face of rising environmental challenges and costly imports, Hyalosustainers Co. Ltd. is positioning itself as a game-changer in Tanzania’s biotechnology sector.
The Dar es Salaam-based company is pioneering the sustainable production of hyaluronic acid (HA) from organic waste—an innovative solution aimed at reducing environmental pollution while making essential skincare and pharmaceutical products more affordable and accessible.
Currently, Tanzania relies entirely on imported hyaluronic acid, which costs at least $300 per kilogram, not including shipping fees.
This reliance drives up the cost of locally manufactured cosmetics and medical products, placing them out of reach for many consumers.
By producing HA domestically, Hyalosustainers aims to cut costs significantly while supporting local industries.
Additionally, the company is developing Hyalofert, a bio-fertilizer enriched with beneficial microorganisms and minerals.
Given that Tanzania generates 11 million tons of organic waste annually—42% of which is food waste—the potential for repurposing waste into high-value products is immense.
The country's agricultural sector, which faces declining soil fertility and crop yields, could benefit substantially from such a solution.
John Mbaga, Executive Officer of Hyalosustainers Co. Ltd., highlights the need for local production.
"Our country is in dire need of sustainable solutions. We cannot continue depending on expensive imports when we have the resources and the expertise to produce hyaluronic acid and organic fertilizers locally. This is not just about business—it’s about national self-sufficiency and sustainability," he states in an interview.
Despite its promising model, Hyalosustainers faces hurdles in scaling production.
Currently, production is limited by equipment constraints, with only prototype development underway.
The company aims to produce 600 liters of hyaluronic acid and 3,200 liters of Hyalofert per month once operations are fully optimized.
To reach this goal, the company requires $250,000 in funding to secure key production equipment, improve research and development, and set up a manufacturing facility.
So far, it has secured only $5,100 from the Women Entrepreneurs for Africa (WE4A) program and $100 from the Tanzanian government's Refractory Programme.
The funding gap remains significant at $254,900.
Mbaga stresses the importance of investment in biotechnology.
"We are working with minimal resources, yet the demand for our products is overwhelming. If we get the necessary funding, we can revolutionize the industry, create jobs, and contribute to environmental conservation," he explains.
Tanzania’s market potential for hyaluronic acid is growing, with more than 150 large and 100 small-scale cosmetics manufacturers in need of the product.
The agriculture sector also presents a significant opportunity, as 44% of the country’s arable land lacks fertility, contributing to a 20% loss in crop yields.
Hyalofert could play a crucial role in reversing these trends by enhancing soil health and increasing productivity by 30%.
Beyond its economic impact, Hyalosustainers’ work is expected to reduce organic waste pollution by 40%, decrease dependency on imports by a similar margin, and create over 50 job opportunities in biotechnology research and production.
Mbaga further notes, "Our goal is not just to produce and sell but to create an ecosystem where local industries thrive. The potential for biotechnology in Tanzania is huge, but we need collective support from investors, policymakers, and industry players."
The company envisions establishing a pilot production facility, obtaining regulatory approvals, and expanding into East Africa within the next decade. It is also seeking strategic industrial partnerships to facilitate market distribution and further technological advancements.
"We are not just looking at Tanzania," says Mbaga, adding that "East Africa as a whole has a massive demand for these products. Our vision is to expand regionally, creating a strong footprint in the biotechnology sector. But first, we must secure the necessary funding and regulatory approvals."
With the right backing, Hyalosustainers has the opportunity to revolutionize Tanzania’s biotech landscape—reducing environmental waste, supporting local industries, and providing cost-effective, high-quality products to consumers.
The company remains optimistic that investors and stakeholders will recognize the value of sustainable biotech solutions, paving the way for a more innovative and self-reliant Tanzania.
