TanTrade to celebrate 50 years with golden jubilee night

DAR ES SALAAM: DAR ES SALAAM is set to witness a landmark moment in trade and investment as preparations intensify for the Sabasaba 2026 Golden Jubilee Night, marking 50 years of the Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (DITF).

The upcoming event is expected to redefine the country’s trade fair landscape, strengthening Tanzania’s position as a regional hub for commerce, innovation and investment.

The Tanzania Trade Development Authority (TanTrade) has officially launched preparatory activities for the Golden Jubilee Night, scheduled for July 6, as part of the climax of the broader Sabasaba 2026 celebrations.

Deputy Minister for Industry and Trade, Mr Dennis Londo, underscored the strategic importance of the Golden Jubilee celebrations, noting that they represent far more than a ceremonial milestone.

“This sabasaba 2026 is a powerful national statement of economic progress, industrial transformation, and regional integration,” he said.

Mr Londo said that the 2026 exhibition will serve as a dynamic platform showcasing the country’s expanding industrial base, innovative technologies, and diverse range of products and services. He further highlighted that the event will enhance economic diplomacy and deepen Tanzania’s engagement within East and Central African markets, while creating new opportunities for trade partnerships and foreign investment.

Tantrade Director General Dr Latifa Khamis, said that the 50th DITF is not only a national pride event but also a shared national asset that reflects the unity and ambition of Tanzanians. She stressed that the exhibition continues to play a critical role in connecting local entrepreneurs with global markets, while promoting the country as an attractive destination for investment and business expansion.

Dr Khamis called on citizens, business communities, and international partners to actively participate in the upcoming exhibition, noting that their involvement will contribute directly to national economic growth. She explained TanTrade’s commitment to ensuring that the Golden Jubilee exhibition delivers excellence, inclusivity and innovation across all sectors.

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A key highlight of the celebrations will be the golden jubilee night, which is expected to offer a blend of high-level entertainment, advanced exhibition showcases, and recognition of key stakeholders who have contributed to the success of sabasaba over the past five decades.

“The event is designed to celebrate both the historical journey and future aspirations of our trade ecosystem,” she said. “This night is a symbolic platform that brings together commerce, investment, technology, and creativity under one roof.

Beyond entertainment, it is expected to serve as a strategic networking space for business leaders, investors, and policymakers, reinforcing collaboration across sectors,” Dr Khamis told the ‘Daily News’. The 50th DITF will run from June 28 to July 13, 2026, and is expected to attract thousands of exhibitors and visitors from across Africa and beyond.

The scale of participation reflects growing international confidence in Tanzania’s economic trajectory and its role as a gateway to regional markets.

As preparations intensify, stakeholders have expressed optimism that the 50th DITF will not only commemorate five decades of success but also set a new benchmark for trade exhibitions in Africa. The golden jubilee night, in particular, is anticipated to stand out as a defining moment celebrating history while opening a new chapter of opportunity, innovation, and sustainable economic growth for Tanzania.