Tanzanian Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba has called on government leaders and citizens to prioritize locally manufactured goods over imports. He made the statement during the launch of the 2025 Sustainable Industrial Development Policy and the 2003 Small and Medium Enterprise Development Policy in Dodoma. Dr. Nchemba emphasized that efforts to establish industries across the country would not achieve their intended objectives unless citizens were willing to buy and use locally manufactured products.
Dr. Nchemba stressed that the policies should translate into practical action rather than remain documents. He urged the government to lead by example by prioritizing locally manufactured products when constructing public buildings and purchasing furniture and equipment. Effective implementation, he said, would stimulate industrial growth, increase production, expand employment opportunities, and build a self-reliant economy.
The Prime Minister also addressed the perception among some Tanzanians that locally manufactured goods are not trustworthy. He noted that when the same products are imported, they receive them with great enthusiasm, a mindset that needs to be reconsidered. Dr. Nchemba emphasized the need for a change in attitude towards locally produced goods.
Director of Lodhia Industries, Mr. Sailesh Pandit, supported the Prime Minister's position, stating that local factories have sufficient capacity to meet domestic demand. He noted that Tanzania produces quality goods, particularly construction materials, making unnecessary imports difficult to justify. Mr. Pandit acknowledged that Tanzania now has sufficient factories producing quality products.
Dr. Nchemba reported that Tanzania has made significant strides in production and trade, with the value of exports increasing from Sh254 billion in 1996 to Sh27 trillion. He recalled a time when the country experienced shortages of essential commodities, forcing people to queue for basic goods such as soap.
The Prime Minister directed the Ministry of Industry and Trade to review laws and procedures that hinder industrial development, particularly those allowing imports of products already manufactured locally. This move aims to support the growth of the industrial sector and promote self-reliance.
Minister for Industry and Trade, Ms. Judith Kapinga, said the launch of the policies demonstrates the government's commitment to strengthening the industrial and trade sectors. She noted that achievements under previous policies have helped increase domestic production and reduce dependence on imported goods. The ministry will work with stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of the new policies.
Key points
- The Tanzanian government has launched the 2025 Sustainable Industrial Development Policy and the 2003 Small and Medium Enterprise Development Policy to boost industrial growth and job creation.
- Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba has urged citizens to prioritize locally manufactured goods to support the national economy.
- The government aims to stimulate industrial growth, increase production, and build a self-reliant economy through effective implementation of the policies.
