Tanzania's population is expected to reach approximately 120 million by 2050, presenting both challenges and opportunities for investment in construction, real estate, and infrastructure. According to Dr. Leonard Akwilapo, Minister for Lands, Housing and Human Settlements Development, this growth will drive demand for housing, transport networks, commercial and industrial buildings, hospitals, water and sanitation systems, and other public infrastructure.
Dr. Akwilapo made these remarks in Dar es Salaam on September 23, 2026, during the opening of the 27th Buildexpo Tanzania 2026, a three-day international trade exhibition. The event brings together companies and professionals in building and construction products, equipment, and machinery. The exhibition provides a platform for contractors, developers, manufacturers, and investors to showcase technologies, establish business partnerships, and explore opportunities in Tanzania's growing construction market.
Dr. Akwilapo emphasized that Tanzania needs to focus on delivering buildings and infrastructure that are affordable, inclusive, productive, and sustainable. He highlighted the importance of positioning the country to build better, inclusively, affordably, productively, and sustainably in a transformative manner that meets the needs of the growing population. The Minister also noted that Tanzania's development trajectory is creating significant opportunities for private-sector participation as the Government expands infrastructure and works to improve the investment climate.
The Tanzanian government registered 925 investment projects worth over $10.9 billion last year, reflecting the scale of opportunities emerging across the economy. Dr. Akwilapo stated that the Government will continue to improve the business environment and strengthen public-private partnerships to attract more investment. He emphasized that such partnerships will become increasingly important as demand for infrastructure continues to rise.
The construction industry is expected to play a key role in Tanzania's economic transformation by creating jobs, developing skills, supporting manufacturing, and strengthening local supply chains. Dr. Akwilapo urged developers, contractors, and investors to view construction as more than a sector that supplies buildings and infrastructure. He encouraged Buildexpo participants to use the exhibition to identify reliable suppliers, establish business partnerships, explore new technologies, and access quality construction materials and equipment.
The exhibition has attracted participants from over 30 countries, bringing together companies and professionals involved in building and construction products, equipment, and machinery. Tanzania Trade Development Authority (TanTrade) Trade Promotion Manager Deo Shayo noted that the Government has identified construction and real estate as strategic sectors for economic growth, job creation, and improved living standards. He emphasized the need for public-private partnerships and a business environment capable of attracting more investment into these sectors.
The growth of Tanzania's population and rapid urbanization are increasing demand for affordable housing, commercial and industrial buildings, roads, water, and other infrastructure. Dr. Akwilapo and Mr. Shayo urged investors, contractors, and developers to use the exhibition to establish partnerships, identify reliable suppliers, and explore opportunities in construction and real estate. The goal is to create jobs, develop skills, strengthen local industries, and build the infrastructure required to realize Tanzania's national aspirations.
Key points
- Tanzania's population is projected to reach 120 million by 2050.
- The construction industry is expected to play a key role in Tanzania's economic transformation.
- The government is promoting public-private partnerships to attract more investment into the construction and real estate sectors.
