By Charles Mkoka
The Tanzanian government has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing challenges facing businesses and improving the country’s investment and trading environment as part of wider efforts to strengthen economic growth.
The remarks were made on May 17, 2026, by Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry and Trade, Aristides Mbwasi, who represented Minister for Industry and Trade Judith Kapinga during the Kariakoo Business Awards ceremony in Dar es Salaam.
Mbwasi said the government recognises Kariakoo as one of Tanzania’s most important commercial hubs and a major contributor to the national economy.
He said authorities would continue engaging traders and resolving business-related concerns to ensure a stable, transparent, and secure environment for investments and commercial activities.
“The government will continue listening to and addressing traders’ challenges to ensure they operate in a safe and predictable business environment,” Mbwasi said.
He described Kariakoo as more than just a marketplace, saying it has become a symbol of entrepreneurship, resilience, and economic opportunity for many Tanzanians, particularly small-scale traders and young entrepreneurs.
According to Mbwasi, the area also plays a major role in regional trade, attracting merchants from neighbouring countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, Zambia, Malawi, Uganda, and Comoros.
He added that the government’s reconstruction of the Kariakoo Central Market following the devastating fire incident demonstrated its commitment to strengthening commercial infrastructure.
The rebuilt market, valued at about Tshs 28 billion, now hosts more than 2,000 shops and improved business facilities.
Meanwhile, Chairman of the Kariakoo Business Awards, Zakayo Shushu, said the awards were established to recognise professionalism, innovation, and integrity among traders operating in the area.
He said the initiative also aims to encourage competitiveness and support the growth of Tanzanian businesses in both local and international markets.
