A TZS1.2 billion investment in a water pipe manufacturing factory in Ludewa District could help reduce Tanzania’s reliance on imported supplies and minimise delays in the implementation of water projects, Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba has said.
Dr Mwigulu made the remarks on Saturday, November 14, 2026, after visiting MALC Investment Company Ltd’s factory in Mlangali Ward, Njombe Region, where he inspected production activities.
He said local production of water distribution pipes was particularly important at a time when the Government was implementing water projects across the country, some of which had previously experienced delays due to challenges in sourcing materials from abroad.
“Some projects stalled because pipes were delayed in arriving from India. This is now an opportunity and the way to build a modern economy,” he said.
The Prime Minister said the investment demonstrated how domestic manufacturing could address supply challenges while creating employment and strengthening the country's industrial capacity.
“I am impressed by the work being done at this factory. Congratulations on your courage and investment,” he said, congratulating the company's Managing Director, Mr Maiko Lameck Ng’ahala.
Dr Mwigulu said industrialisation and value addition were central to economic transformation, noting that countries that had advanced economically had invested in manufacturing rather than relying heavily on imported finished products.
He added that expanding local production would create jobs, broaden the tax base and increase government revenue.
For the water sector, the factory presents an opportunity to improve access to locally manufactured pipes, although its ability to meet the needs of large-scale government projects will depend on production capacity, product quality and competitive pricing.
Providing an update on the investment, Mr Ng’ahala said construction of the factory began in early 2025, with production officially commencing in May 2026.
He said the investment had reached Sh1.2 billion and that the factory was producing water distribution pipes in different sizes and grades.
Production has initially focused on Grade A and Grade B pipes intended for agriculture, irrigation and other uses.
Mr Ng’ahala said the project was designed to increase the domestic supply of manufactured products, contribute to Ludewa's economic development and create employment opportunities.
The factory has so far employed 30 young people, offering jobs in an area where industrial investment can also stimulate demand for supporting services and local businesses.
The investment comes as Tanzania seeks to expand its manufacturing sector and strengthen domestic capacity to supply materials needed for infrastructure development.
Its performance will be measured not only by the jobs created but also by its ability to supply reliable, quality products and reduce the time and costs associated with importing materials for water projects.