TZ showcases housing opportunities at Africa forum

NAIROBI: THE government has highlighted its achievements in urban development and the housing sector at the Second African Urban Forum currently taking place in Nairobi, Kenya. It also called on both domestic and international investors to seize the investment opportunities available in the country.

Speaking in Nairobi, Minister for Lands, Housing and Human Settlements Development, Dr Leonard Akwilapo, delivered Tanzania’s official statement outlining the government’s efforts to promote sustainable urban and housing development.

He pointed out ongoing policies, plans and strategies aimed at improving housing and strengthening urban planning systems. Dr Akwilapo noted that Tanzania has made significant progress in implementing the African Union’s Agenda 2063, particularly in infrastructure development, energy access, delivery of social services and the strengthening of regional cooperation.

“These efforts are aligned with Africa’s broader strategy to promote integration, trade and inclusive development,” he said.

He further outlined government measures to address the challenges of rapid urbanisation and housing shortages, revealing that informal settlements currently account for approximately 67.3 per cent of urban housing.

To tackle these challenges, the government is implementing policy reforms, introducing innovative financing mechanisms, improving land tenure systems and promoting investment in affordable housing through public-private partnerships.

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Dr Akwilapo also highlighted efforts to improve access to housing finance through the establishment of the Tanzania Mortgage Refinance Company (TMRC), which aims to lower borrowing costs, extend loan repayment periods and expand access to financial services, including microloans, to a broader segment of the population.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to leveraging the country’s natural resources, while maintaining peace and security, to accelerate the implementation of Agenda 2063.

The minister further called on development partners and the private sector to collaborate with the government in investing in the housing sector, which he described as a key driver of economic growth and improved living standards.

During the forum, Dr Akwilapo also conveyed warm greetings from President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who commended President William Ruto and the people of Kenya for successfully organising the important event