TSA: Friendly environmemt is key for startup growth

DAR ES SALAAM: The Tanzania Startup Association (TSA) has pledged to continue creating conducive environment that fosters innovation, and accelerate the growth of startups to position Tanzania as a regional hub for the startup sector.

This was said yesterday by the TSA Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr Zahoro Muhaji during the tour to Pangyo Techno Valley in Seoul, South Korea.

Pangyo Techno Valley is an industrial complex in the city of Pangyo Seongnam Gyeonggi Province South Korea.

“Our commitment to improving the business environment in Tanzania through policy reforms and the development of supportive initiatives is strong,” said Mr Muhaji.

Speaking to Daily News, Mr Muhaji said that the TSA decided to visit Pangyo Techno Valley since it stands as a leading example of a well-integrated tech hub, driving innovation and economic growth through its robust infrastructure and supportive environment for startups.

“The visit aims to foster a deeper understanding of the startup ecosystem that has established South Korea as a global leader in technology and startups.

“The industry incubates any startup, from anywhere in the world, with innovative aspects and the potential to scale quickly, without requiring any formal academic certifications,” said Mr Muhaji adding this is the thing we want to apply in our country.

He said the insights gained from the visit will significantly contribute to shaping the initiatives led by TSA and the stakeholders.

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Moreover, the CEO recommended that the government focus on creating a centre similar to Pangyo Techno Valley rather than establishing an Information and Communication Technology (ICT) University.

“We believe a tech hub will better serve the needs of aspiring entrepreneurs by providing direct access to resources, mentorship, and collaboration opportunities rather than universities,” Mr Muhaji said.

In addition, he said that TSA looks forward to collaborating with Pangyo Techno Valley, relevant government bodies, and the broader Tanzanian startup ecosystem.

“This collaboration will focus on key areas such as investments, technology transfer and other crucial aspects needed to grow and strengthen Tanzania’s ecosystem, ensuring it is well-equipped to meet future challenges and opportunities,” Mr Muhaji stressed.

TSA has a total of 720 members and among 10 are in the President Samia Suluhu Hassan delegation to South Korea.