By Alfred Zacharia
With preparations now 85 percent complete, the Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (DITF)—widely known as Sabasaba, is gearing up to welcome more than 5,000 exhibitors in what is shaping up to be one of the largest and most internationally-focused trade showcases in Africa.
The 48th edition of the annual event, organised by the Tanzania Trade Development Authority (TanTrade), is scheduled to officially open on July 3 at the Mwalimu Julius Nyerere Trade Fair Grounds.
It has already attracted participation from 23 countries, and organisers expect that number to grow before the final registration deadline of June 28.
“This year’s theme is centred on efficiency, innovation, and aligning with international standards,” said Ms. Latifa Khamis, Director General of TanTrade.
She added “From improved logistics to strict infrastructure protocols, we are raising the bar to deliver an event that meets global expectations.”
Despite the impressive progress, authorities have expressed concern over the slow pace of preparation among several government institutions, cautioning that if the current trend continues, their exhibition booths may not reflect the calibre required for an international event.
“Private companies have demonstrated urgency and professionalism in setting up their pavilions,” said Temeke District Commissioner Mr. Sixtus Mapunda during a visit to the venue.
he added that “Public institutions must follow suit. This is not the time for delays—by July 3, every booth should be ready to receive both local and international visitors.”
To enhance order and security around the fairgrounds, Mr. Mapunda issued a directive requiring all parked trucks near the exhibition venue to be removed immediately.
He warned that trucks found idling or being used for repairs within restricted areas would be towed and treated as “solid waste.”
“This is an international event, and the environment must reflect that status,” he said. “Any trucks found in violation will be removed without exception and taken to the city landfill.”
For the first time, TanTrade will introduce electric shuttle services within the venue to improve visitor mobility and accessibility.
Special transport arrangements will also cater to individuals who may have difficulty walking long distances, with clearly designated stops at key pavilions.
In partnership with the Tanzania Posts Corporation, the organisers have also set up a secure and affordable logistics system to help exhibitors transport goods from across the country, reducing the need for exhibitors to bring private vehicles into the exhibition area.
To further support accessibility, Mr. Mapunda has appealed to the Dar es Salaam Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system to consider opening selected routes during the exhibition period, enabling more residents and visitors to attend the fair.
This year’s DITF is expected to serve as a dynamic platform for cross-border trade, investment partnerships, and sectoral innovation. Exhibitors will showcase products and services across a wide range of sectors, including manufacturing, agribusiness, ICT, health, energy, logistics, and financial services.
“As Tanzania positions itself as a strategic trade and investment hub in the region, DITF plays a pivotal role in connecting local businesses to international markets,” Ms. Khamis said, adding that “This is not just a local showcase, it’s a global marketplace. Every exhibitor, especially government agencies, must meet the expectations of global participants.”
Running through early July, the fair is anticipated to attract tens of thousands of visitors from across Tanzania, Africa, and beyond, cementing its place as a flagship event on the continent’s trade calendar.
