Access Bank boosts support for tourism sector

ARUSHA: ACCESS Bank Tanzania has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the growth of the country’s tourism industry, backed by a landmark 500 million US dollar financing partnership between the Access Bank Group and the International Finance Corporation (IFC).

The bank made the commitment during its participation in KiliFair 2026, one of East Africa’s leading tourism and travel exhibitions, where it is showcasing financial solutions tailored to support businesses operating across the tourism value chain.

Speaking at the event, Access Bank Tanzania Managing Director, Mr Imani John, said tourism remains one of Tanzania’s key economic sectors, contributing significantly to employment, foreign exchange earnings and the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

He said the new financing partnership with IFC will strengthen the bank’s capacity to expand local currency financing and provide greater support to businesses seeking to invest, expand operations and build long-term resilience.

“Tourism is far more than a sector. It is an ecosystem of entrepreneurs, tour operators, hospitality businesses, transport providers, suppliers and communities whose success contributes directly to Tanzania’s economic development,” said Mr John.

He noted that the bank’s participation in KiliFair reflects its commitment to supporting tourism-related enterprises through financial products and services designed to meet their evolving needs.

According to him, the IFC partnership will further enhance the bank’s ability to support businesses that create jobs, drive innovation and contribute to national economic growth.

At the exhibition, Access Bank Tanzania is presenting a range of products, including Wekeza Accounts, Tiered Current Accounts (TICA) and Vehicle Asset Financing solutions aimed at helping businesses improve cash flow management, strengthen savings and access financing for vehicles and equipment.

Mr John said access to affordable financing remains critical for businesses within the tourism industry, particularly SMEs that play a central role in the sector but often face challenges in securing capital for expansion.

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He said the bank remains focused on promoting financial inclusion, supporting entrepreneurship and enabling sustainable economic growth across the country.

The IFC partnership, he added, aligns with Access Bank’s broader vision of unlocking financing opportunities for businesses while supporting economic development across Africa.

Visitors attending KiliFair 2026 have been invited to visit Access Bank Tanzania’s exhibition booth to learn more about the bank’s products and services and explore financing opportunities available for tourism-related businesses.