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Tanzania’s industrial sector has received a significant boost following the official launch of the Afriport Apparel Limited factory, a project worth USD 8.8 million, equivalent to over TZS 22 billion.
The factory was officially inaugurated today, February 7, 2026, by the Deputy Minister for Industry and Trade, Dennis Londo.
Speaking during the launch ceremony held in Dar es Salaam, Londo stated that the investment is clear evidence of the strong confidence international investors have in Tanzania, as well as the success of government policies and strategies aimed at promoting an industrial economy.
He explained that the government has continued to create a favorable investment climate through policy reforms, infrastructure development, and simplification of business procedures to ensure Tanzania becomes a manufacturing and trade hub in the East and Central African region.
“The launch of this factory marks a major milestone in Tanzania’s journey towards an industrial economy. The investment of more than TZS 22 billion not only adds value to the textile and apparel sector but also opens doors for employment, technology transfer, and skills development for Tanzanians,” said Londo.
He further noted that the investment aligns with the objectives of the Tanzania Development Vision 2050 by strengthening the industrial sector, increasing exports, and enhancing technology and skills transfer to Tanzanians.
“The government remains committed to ensuring the industrial sector becomes a key pillar of the economy by adding value to raw materials, strengthening the global competitiveness of our products, and transferring technological knowledge to local citizens,” he added.
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Additionally, the Deputy Minister emphasized that the government will continue to work closely with investors to ensure such projects bring substantial benefits to the nation, while encouraging both local and foreign investors to utilize the available opportunities in Tanzania.
On her part, the Ambassador of Ireland to Tanzania, Nicola Brennan, commended the government for its efforts in attracting investments and promoting various sectors of the economy. She said Tanzania continues to build a strong international reputation as a safe and attractive investment destination.
Ambassador Brennan added that the success of PORTWEST’s investment in Tanzania reflects the strengthening economic cooperation between Ireland and Tanzania, while encouraging other Irish companies to follow suit and invest in Tanzania’s competitive and fast-growing market.
Meanwhile, the Director of PORTWEST, a long-established Irish company, Harry Hughes, expressed satisfaction with the strategic investment, noting that the company was attracted by Tanzania’s political stability, business-friendly environment, and a motivated and capable workforce.
He pledged that the company will continue collaborating with relevant authorities to ensure the factory produces products that meet international standards while contributing to the growth of Tanzania’s industrial sector.
In another development, the factory’s Human Resources Director, Anna Lucas, announced the availability of various employment opportunities for Tanzanians, stating that besides job creation, the factory will also provide professional training programs to enhance workers’ skills in line with global labor market demands.
From an economic perspective, the investment is expected to strengthen Tanzania’s international image as an investment hub in Africa, potentially attracting more investors in various production and service sectors.
The launch of the Afriport Apparel Limited factory demonstrates Tanzania’s continued success in attracting large-scale industrial investments, creating employment opportunities for youth, and strengthening the contribution of the manufacturing sector to the national economy.