ALAF launches state-of-the-art colour coating line
Dar es Salaam. In a major boost to Tanzania’s industrial growth, ALAF Limited, which is part of the Safal Group, has officially launched a multibillion-shilling state-of-the-art colour coating line at its Dar es Salaam facility.
The over $25 million investment is expected to significantly transform the construction sector and save the country more than $190 million in imports over the next five years.
Gracing the launch ceremony, Minister for Industry and Trade Suleiman Jafo commended ALAF for the strategic move, describing it as a critical milestone for both the company and the country.
“This is a commendable investment, and as the government, we will do everything necessary to protect it and ensure it achieves its intended objectives—especially considering that the government itself holds shares in ALAF,” Dr. Jafo said.
He emphasised that the government remains committed to supporting local industries, instructing agencies such as the Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) to tighten regulations and block the influx of substandard and cheap imported goods.
“We cannot allow such heavy investment to be undermined by low-cost imports when we have the capacity to manufacture high-quality products right here at home,” he added.
The newly commissioned colour coating line, which is operated by a team of local engineers, aligns with the government’s broader vision of empowering Tanzanian youth and building a strong industrial base—‘Tanzania ya Viwanda.’
Jafo praised ALAF’s use of local expertise in the project, which he said enhances skills development and increases employment opportunities.
SAFAL Group CEO Anders Lindgren thanked the Tanzanian government for fostering a favourable investment climate, saying it was a key factor in the group’s decision to expand its operations in the country.
“It’s been a rewarding journey. We’re proud to have reached this milestone, and the government’s support has played a vital role,” Lindgren said. “For us at Safal Group, it’s not just about selling products—it’s about delivering complete building solutions grounded in quality, safety, and long-term value.”
Speaking at the event, ALAF CEO Ashish Mistry declared that the new production line positions Tanzania to meet its full national demand for coated iron sheets—estimated at 130,000 metric tonnes per year.
With a production capacity of 75,000 MTPA, the facility will supply over half of the national market, eliminating the need for imports.
“This is a call to action for Tanzanians to prioritise quality. Our locally produced roofing sheets are built to last for generations. There is no need to rely on inferior products that deteriorate quickly,” Mistry said.
He further assured that ALAF would continue to collaborate with regulatory authorities including TBS, FCC, OSHA, and NEMC to combat counterfeit products and ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards.
The new facility features a Continuous Colour Coating Line equipped with advanced technology to coat Alu-Zinc coils using a high-performance paint system. This offers enhanced protection, especially in harsh coastal environments, making it ideal for Tanzania’s diverse climatic conditions.
Before full-scale production began, the facility underwent rigorous testing, with various stakeholders invited to validate the product’s quality.
ALAF, which began operations in 1960, now offers a full suite of building solutions—including pre-painted and Alu-Zinc coated roofing products, structural steel, pipes and sections, light gauge steel trussing, cold-formed pre-engineered buildings, and more.
