Samia touts Africa as next investment frontier

DAR ES SALAAM: PRESIDENT Samia Suluhu Hassan has called for stronger international partnerships and deeper economic cooperation with Africa, saying the continent’s rapid transformation presents one of the world’s most significant investment opportunities.

She said the conversation among global investors should no longer focus on whether Africa will grow, but rather on how governments, businesses and development partners can work together to shape that growth and ensure it delivers shared prosperity.

“The question before the international community is no longer whether Africa will grow, but who will partner with Africa in shaping that growth,” President Samia said.

Speaking at the 29th St Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF 2026) on Friday, President Samia said Africa is emerging as a major force in the global economy, driven by a fastgrowing population, expanding consumer markets and increased economic integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

She said that the world is undergoing profound economic, technological and geopolitical changes that require nations to strengthen cooperation and build partnerships capable of unlocking new opportunities for development.

“Tanzania is positioning itself as a strategic gateway to the African market through sustained investments in infrastructure, logistics, energy, digital transformation and industrial development,” she said.

According to President Samia, Tanzania’s strong economic performance, macroeconomic stability and access to a regional market of more than 500 million people across Eastern and Southern Africa make the country an attractive destination for investment and trade.

She highlighted key national projects, including the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), expansion of the Dar es Salaam Port and improvements in transport corridors and digital connectivity, saying the initiatives are laying the foundation for increased competitiveness and regional integration.

The President invited international investors to explore opportunities in sectors ranging from mining and mineral beneficiation to agriculture, energy, oil and gas, manufacturing, logistics, tourism, pharmaceuticals and digital technologies.

She said Tanzania’s vast reserves of critical minerals, natural gas resources and strategic geographical location provide strong prospects for longterm investment and industrial growth.

President Samia also reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to strengthening economic relations with countries across the world, including Russia, through practical cooperation, technology exchange and mutually beneficial investments.

The President’s remarks echoed broader discussions at the forum, where world leaders and business executives examined ways of strengthening economic cooperation, expanding trade and building resilience in an increasingly interconnected global economy.

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She said that Tanzania’s Vision 2050 places strong emphasis on industrialisation, innovation, productivity and private sector-led growth, all aimed at accelerating economic transformation and improving livelihoods.

“The government will continue creating an enabling environment for business and investment while promoting partnerships that support sustainable development and job creation.

“Tanzania is open for business. Tanzania is open for investment. Tanzania is open for innovation. And Tanzania is ready to work with all partners who share our commitment to sustainable and inclusive development,” she said.

President Samia returned to the country yesterday after concluding her three-day state visit.