Tanzania has emerged among Africa’s leading countries in tax reforms and public financial management, with the African Development Bank (AfDB) citing the country as a model in the use of domestic revenues to finance development projects.
The recognition was announced during the launch of the African Economic Outlook 2026 report at the 61st Annual Meeting of the AfDB underway in Brazzaville, Congo.
Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba, representing President Samia Suluhu Hassan, took part in a high-level panel discussion that examined Tanzania’s experience in economic management and fiscal reforms.
Speaking during the forum, Dr Nchemba said Tanzania has succeeded in financing more than 70 percent of the national budget using domestic revenues, thanks to reforms in tax administration, adoption of digital systems and tighter control of public spending.
He said the reforms have strengthened the country’s financial independence and reduced reliance on external assistance, allowing the government to invest heavily in strategic development projects using internally generated funds.
“Tanzania has continued to strengthen tax collection systems while ensuring efficiency and accountability in the management of public resources,” he said.
Dr Nchemba noted that the achievements have enabled the implementation of major national projects including the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project, the University of Dodoma and the Benjamin Mkapa Hospital.
The AfDB report praised African countries that are pursuing reforms aimed at broadening domestic revenue collection, improving governance and creating sustainable financing mechanisms for development.
Leaders attending the meeting stressed the importance of African nations making better use of local resources, pension funds, insurance sectors and policy reforms to build resilient economies and reduce dependence on foreign aid.
The discussions also underscored the need for African economies to accelerate industrialisation, embrace digital transformation and strengthen public institutions to support inclusive economic growth.
Tanzania’s recognition at the continental forum signals growing confidence in the country’s economic management and reform agenda, positioning it among the continent’s strongest performers in fiscal governance and development financing.
