Tanzania eyes stronger private sector ties for growth

Dar es Salaam. The government has reiterated its commitment to strengthening collaboration with the private sector to spur economic growth and drive industrial transformation.

Speaking during celebrations to mark the 50th anniversary of Said Salim Bakhresa (SSB) Group, Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Trade and Industries, Mr Suleiman Serera, emphasised the critical role of partnerships in unlocking investment opportunities, creating jobs, and cementing Tanzania’s position as a regional industrial hub.

“Our vision for sustainable growth relies heavily on active private sector participation. We urge local companies to explore regional and international markets and promote Tanzania as an emerging industrial economy,” said Mr Serela.

He commended Bakhresa Group for its long-standing commitment to national development, noting that it directly employs over 10,000 Tanzanians and operates extensively across East Africa. The group’s annual turnover exceeds $1 billion.

Mr Serela said the government remains dedicated to fostering a business-friendly environment that enables the private sector to thrive.

He also hinted at potential future collaboration with the group in the transport sector, particularly as the management of Dar es Salaam’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system is set to change.

“Azam does not merely promote its products—it promotes Tanzania. For 50 years, you have been a beacon for others. You are a model patriotic company that values its people and national progress,” he said.

SSB Group CEO, Mr Ali Mukadam, outlined the company’s growth trajectory, noting the creation of more than 10,000 direct jobs in Tanzania and over 20,000 across Africa, along with 150,000 indirect employment opportunities.

“Over five decades, we have built 15 companies in Tanzania and another eight across Africa, generating annual revenues of over Sh2.68 trillion. We’re not just celebrating our past—we’re reaffirming our values of quality, integrity, and affordability,” he said.

He highlighted the group’s growth in wheat flour production—from 15 tonnes per day to 9,000 tonnes per day across Africa—as one of its most notable achievements.

Bakhresa Group now operates in Uganda, Malawi, Rwanda, Burundi, Mozambique, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Zanzibar.

Mr Mukadam said the group invests over Sh5 billion annually in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects and has diversified into food and beverages, transport, communications, energy, tourism, and household goods under the Azam brand.

“This marks the start of another 50 years of building Africa through quality products, dependable services, and strong community partnerships,” he said.