Access Bank Tanzania has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the growth of Tanzania’s tourism industry and related businesses following a landmark $500 million financing partnership between its parent company, Access Bank Plc, and the International Finance Corporation.
The bank made the announcement during its participation in KiliFair 2026, one of East Africa’s leading tourism and travel exhibitions, where it is showcasing financial solutions tailored to businesses operating across the tourism value chain.
The financing facility is expected to strengthen Access Bank’s capacity to expand local currency lending and increase support for businesses across its African markets, including Tanzania.
Speaking at the event, Access Bank Tanzania Managing Director, Imani John, said the tourism industry remains a vital pillar of Tanzania’s economy, contributing significantly to employment creation, foreign exchange earnings and the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
“Tourism is far more than a sector. It is an ecosystem of entrepreneurs, tour operators, hospitality businesses, transport providers, suppliers and communities whose success contributes directly to Tanzania’s economic development,” he said.
He noted that the bank’s participation in KiliFair demonstrates its commitment to supporting businesses within the sector through accessible financial solutions that enable growth and long-term sustainability.
According to Mr John, the new IFC-backed financing arrangement will further strengthen the bank’s ability to support enterprises that are creating jobs, driving innovation and contributing to Tanzania’s economic transformation.
At KiliFair 2026, Access Bank Tanzania is promoting a range of products designed to meet the needs of both established and emerging businesses.
These include Wekeza Accounts, Tiered Current Accounts (TICA) and Vehicle Asset Financing solutions aimed at helping businesses improve cash-flow management, build savings and access financing for vehicles and equipment needed to expand operations.
The bank said improving access to finance remains essential for businesses operating within the tourism industry, particularly SMEs that often face financing challenges despite playing a central role in the sector’s development.
Tourism continues to be among Tanzania’s top foreign exchange earners and one of the country’s most important economic sectors, supporting thousands of jobs directly and indirectly.
As part of the wider Access Bank Group, Access Bank Tanzania said it remains focused on promoting financial inclusion, supporting entrepreneurship and enabling sustainable economic growth across the country.
The IFC partnership is expected to unlock additional financing opportunities for businesses while supporting broader economic development initiatives across Africa.
Visitors attending KiliFair 2026 can engage with Access Bank Tanzania at Booth Q42 to learn more about the bank’s products and explore financing solutions tailored to their business needs.
Access Bank Tanzania is a subsidiary of Access Bank Plc, one of Africa’s largest banking groups, serving millions of customers across multiple markets through innovative financial services aimed at supporting businesses and communities.
