Africa Harmony revives FOMA soap
TANGA: THE powdered soap manufacturer Africa Harmony— formerly known as FOMA, is nearing completion of its trial production phase, signalling a significant milestone in efforts to revive Tanga’s once-thriving industrial base.
Full-scale production is expected to begin in January next year, signalling the longawaited return of one of the city’s most iconic factories.
The revival of the soap factory is part of a broader government effort to restore three major industries in Tanga, Unique Steel Rolling Mills, formerly Tanga Steel Rolling Mills, Africa Harmony, formerly FOMA and Plywood and Panel Mills, formerly Sikh Saw Mills.
The Ministry of Trade and Industry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr Hashil Abdallah, said during a recent inspection of the three factories that the revival aligns with the government’s directive and vision to transform the region into an industrial hub.
“The ministry is working closely with the investors to address challenges and ensure the president’s vision of restoring Tanga’s status as an industrial hub becomes a reality,” said Mr Abdallah.
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He confirmed that all three factories are on track to resume full operations at the start of the new year. The revival is expected to create more than 300 new jobs for young people in the region, providing a major boost to local employment and the regional economy.
Africa Harmony’s Human Resource Manager, Mustapha Ntomola, said trial production began in June this year and will conclude soon, paving the way for full production in January.
Additionally, Unique Steel Rolling Mills Supervisor Mr Jagjeet Singh said production machinery is currently being shipped to the country and is expected to arrive next month, with installation to begin immediately.
“The full operations will start in January next year,” he said, noting that the factory will employ around 100 workers.
At Plywood and Panel Mills, Supervisor Hussein Moor said part of the machinery, about three tonnes, has already arrived, while the rest is expected soon. Installation will commence immediately upon arrival.
He said that the factory’s main challenge had been securing a steady supply of logs, but thanked the government for facilitating an agreement with the Tanzania Forest Services (TFS) to provide a plantation that guarantees a ten-year log supply.
“We also plan to expand and add more machinery, which will create additional employment opportunities,” he said.
Tanga Regional Administrative Secretary, Rashid Mchata, expressed appreciation to the government for prioritising Tanga’s industrial revival.
He pledged continued cooperation with investors, emphasising that with the expansion and modernisation of the Port of Tanga, the region now offers even greater opportunities for industrial and commercial growth.
