Samia Suluhu Launches Major Infrastructure Projects

New Era for Sugar Industry as Samia Unveils Major Plans for Tanga Region

President Samia Suluhu Hassan has announced plans to establish a major industrial sugar factory in Tanzania’s Tanga Region, aiming to boost domestic production and reduce the country's dependence on imported sugar. The new factory will be located near Tanga Port, while a large-scale sugarcane plantation will be developed in Pangani, further enhancing the region's agricultural output.

Speaking at a public rally in Pangani District, President Samia emphasized that while Tanzanian sugar factories typically produce sugar for domestic consumption, industrial sugar remains a major import. The establishment of the new factory is intended to significantly reduce the country’s reliance on foreign imports and save on foreign exchange by producing industrial-grade sugar locally.

“We are embarking on large-scale sugarcane farming in the Pangani Valley, alongside building a factory that will cater to the country’s industrial sugar needs. This initiative will create numerous job opportunities and foster economic growth,” she stated.

In addition to the sugar factory, President Samia marked the laying of the foundation stone for the construction of the Bagamoyo (Makurunge) – Pangani – Tanga Road, covering a 256-kilometre stretch. This includes the 170.8-kilometre Mkange – Pangani – Tanga section and a 525-metre bridge over the Pangani River. Part of the East African Community (EAC) road project, this road is expected to enhance trade and tourism links between Tanzania and Kenya, as it runs along the Indian Ocean coastline through the Coast and Tanga regions.

“The construction of the Pangani Bridge and road will significantly boost the local economy. It will also strengthen the integration of Tanga with other regions and economic corridors, benefiting the entire country,” President Samia noted.

The road will also play a crucial role in facilitating trade, connecting Tanga and Bagamoyo with Kenya’s border, and further integrating Tanzanian trade routes with the bustling port city of Mombasa. Additionally, Bagamoyo will host Tanzania's largest-ever Export Processing Zone (EPZ) and a new port, underlining the strategic importance of this road in driving economic development.

“This corridor will not only enhance trade with Mombasa but also improve access to previously difficult-to-reach tourism sites in Tanga. It will link various economic zones across the country, driving connectivity between eastern, central, southern, and western Tanzania,” she added.

In her address, President Samia also discussed progress in supporting Tanzania’s blue economy. She highlighted the distribution of 35 modern fishing boats, which will enable local fishermen to operate in deeper waters and increase their capacity to catch larger quantities of fish. Each boat can carry between three and five tonnes of fish, representing a significant upgrade from traditional vessels.

She urged the beneficiaries of these boats to maintain the equipment and repay their loans to ensure the longevity of the initiative. Furthermore, a new international fish market will be developed in the Kipumbwi area of Pangani, generating employment and boosting the local economy.

Responding to concerns about transport links between Tanga, Unguja, and Pemba, President Samia directed the Minister for Transport to assess the possibility of increasing boat services between these regions, further facilitating the movement of people and goods.

Local MP Jumaa Aweso expressed gratitude to the president, likening her leadership to that of a doctor addressing the region’s issues. He reflected on how Pangani had long suffered from poor road access, with many residents only visiting for essential matters. With the new infrastructure, Aweso believes Pangani will attract more visitors and investment.

Meanwhile, Minister for Livestock and Fisheries Dr. Ashatu Kijaji confirmed that a contract for the construction of Kipumbwi Port would soon be signed. The new port will support the growing fishing industry in the region. She also discussed plans for a livestock port in Pangani, seeking the president's approval for the project in the upcoming fiscal year.

Dr. Kijaji further highlighted that 113 youths from Tanga, who previously engaged in illegal fishing, have now transitioned to legal fishing groups, receiving government support for acquiring modern boats on affordable loans.

On the development front, President Samia also launched 29 new fishing boats and 50 boats for seaweed farming, as part of the government’s efforts to enhance the blue economy. Minister for Works Abdallah Ulega assured that all funding for the Pangani Bridge project had been disbursed and that the work would be completed on schedule. Over 400 streetlights will be installed along the new road and bridge to ensure smooth transport and economic activities.