Mkulazi Sugar Factory in Morogoro has begun producing industrial-grade white sugar, a move set to reduce Tanzania’s total dependence on imports. The launch was praised by two government ministers during a visit to the factory.
Prof. Kitila Mkumbo, Minister of State in the President’s Office for Planning and Investment, and Daniel Chongolo, Minister of Agriculture, toured the factory and urged management to expand production to meet domestic and regional demand.
Speaking after reviewing production reports, Prof. Mkumbo said Tanzania currently imports about 300,000 tonnes of industrial sugar each year, costing the country significant foreign currency.
“The start of industrial sugar production at Mkulazi is a major step toward reducing this dependence. Our goal is that by 2026/27–2027/28, Tanzania will fully produce its sugar needs, with surplus available for export,” he said. He added that Africa’s sugar market demands over 12 million tonnes annually, presenting a big opportunity for Tanzania.
Minister Chongolo described the move as a key milestone in boosting both the industrial and agricultural sectors. He encouraged investors, including social security institutions like NSSF, to invest in sugar factories to take advantage of the high demand for sugar locally and abroad.
Morogoro Regional Commissioner Adam Malima said Mkulazi is a flagship project contributing to economic growth in the region and across the country. He praised the factory management for implementing plans that help reduce the national sugar shortage.
Selestine Some, CEO of Mkulazi Sugar Factory, said the facility is currently the only one in Tanzania producing industrial white sugar, following directives from President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
After trial production this season, Some said output will increase next season to cut imports further. The factory also supports outgrower farmers, who supply sugarcane as raw material. This year, farmers are expected to cultivate 1,717 hectares, with 1,384 hectares already planted.
Some added that the sugar’s high quality has won consumer preference, and the factory has trained local professionals to manage production efficiently.
With industrial sugar now produced locally, Mkulazi Factory is a key pillar in Tanzania’s journey to sugar self-sufficiency and reducing reliance on foreign imports.