RC hails FAW trucks assembly plant for creating jobs

COAST REGION: COAST Regional Commissioner Abubakar Kunenge has applauded the management of Roster Vehicle Equipment Company Limited, operators of the FAW vehicle assembly plant in Bagamoyo District, for employing Tanzanian youths and contributing to the country’s industrialisation drive.

Speaking during a oneday tour of the facility this week, Mr Kunenge praised the company for involving local youths in the production process at what is now the largest FAW assembly plant in Africa, with an annual production capacity of 500,000 vehicles.

“These youths have demonstrated excellent skills and the ability to perform the work you have given them. They are also creative and hardworking. I want to congratulate you for employing them in your industry,” he said.

The Regional Commissioner described the project as a milestone for the socioeconomic development of the Coast Region and the nation at large, noting that such investments align with the government’s industrialisation agenda under the Third Five-Year Development Plan (FYDP III).

“This is the biggest FAW vehicle assembly plant in Africa. I truly commend you for having such a big vision. Your decision to invest in Bagamoyo not only creates jobs but also strengthens our journey toward building an industrial economy,” Mr Kunenge added.

He urged other investors to take advantage of the conducive investment environment in the Coast Region, which has become a key hub for industries and logistics, hosting several large-scale projects, including the Kwala Dry Port and the upcoming Bagamoyo Special Economic Zone.

Company Director Mr Bai Xinguo said construction of the plant began in June 2024, with the first phase now completed and production already underway.

“We have already received orders for 1,000 vehicles from our clients. In addition, we plan to expand production to include trailers, tanks and cranes,” Mr Bai said.

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He expressed appreciation to the government for its support, saying the favourable investment climate had been instrumental in bringing the project to fruition.

The FAW Bagamoyo plant, he added, is not only an assembly hub but also a platform for technology transfer, skills development and regional trade, positioning Tanzania as a competitive player in the automotive industry.

FAW, a Chinese state-owned automotive giant, has been expanding its footprint across Africa, with the Bagamoyo plant now serving as a strategic base for supplying vehicles and heavy equipment to East and Central African markets.

By integrating modern assembly technology and local talent, the company aims to produce vehicles tailored to African conditions while contributing to employment and capacity-building for Tanzanian workers.

Mr Kunenge encouraged the management to maintain high production standards and continue empowering local employees through training and skills development.

“This project is a big boost for the youth of our region. It shows that with the right partnerships and commitment, we can turn our industrialisation goals into reality,” he said.

The Bagamoyo facility adds to the growing number of major industrial projects in the Coast Region, reaffirming its status as one of Tanzania’s fastest-growing investment corridors.