The government has pledged to further strengthen the financial sector to accelerate economic growth, with a clear emphasis on expanding access to affordable and reliable financial services for all Tanzanians.
The commitment was made by the Minister of Finance, Khamis Mussa Omar, during the opening of the 2026 Financial Sector Stakeholders Forum in Dar es Salaam.
The forum is held under the theme, “An innovative and accountable financial sector for inclusive and sustainable social and economic development.”
Addressing stakeholders, the minister urged participants to use the forum to generate practical proposals that can improve policies, laws and financial systems, noting that a resilient financial sector is critical to achieving a stable, long-term economy by 2050.
He said the government is focused on ensuring that financial services are not only widely available but also affordable, particularly for low-income groups and underserved communities.
The forum also serves as a platform to assess the implementation of the Financial Sector Development Master Plan (2021–2029), which is designed to deepen financial inclusion and strengthen the sector’s role in supporting economic activities.
Deputy Minister for Finance, Mshamu Ali Munde, highlighted the need for stronger safeguards against financial risks, including illicit transactions and abuse of financial systems.
He called for enhanced oversight as the country continues to adopt new financial technologies.
On his part, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Finance, Natu El-Maamry Mwamba, said the sector has recorded significant progress over the past five years.
She cited increased access to financial services, expansion of banking infrastructure through agents and branches, and rapid growth in digital financial services.
According to her, 76 percent of Tanzanians now access formal financial services, a milestone largely driven by the widespread use of mobile phones and digital platforms.
Stakeholders at the forum discussed key challenges and emerging opportunities, particularly in financial technology, investment, and inclusive finance.
The meeting is expected to produce recommendations that will guide future reforms and strengthen the sector’s contribution to national development.
The forum has brought together representatives from banks, insurance firms, cooperative institutions and the private sector, reflecting a coordinated approach to building a more inclusive and efficient financial system.
