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| The Deputy Minister for Industry and Trade, Hon. Denis Londo (centre), cuts the ribbon to officially open Afriport’s occupational safety garments manufacturing factory in Ubungo, Dar es Salaam. Second from the right is the company’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Henry Huge, alongside other company officials and government representatives. |
Dar es Salaam: Global workwear and personal protective equipment (PPE) manufacturer Portwest has strengthened its footprint in East Africa with the operationalisation of a new apparel manufacturing facility in Dar es Salaam, positioning Tanzania as a strategic hub within the company’s global supply chain.
The investment has received strong backing from the Government of Tanzania, which has reiterated its commitment to fostering a conducive environment for both local and foreign investors.
Government Reaffirms Support for Industrial Investment
Speaking during an official visit to the facility, Assistant Minister for Industry and Trade, Hon. Denis Londo, said the Government will continue implementing investor-friendly policies and legal frameworks aimed at attracting industrial investments.
“The Government of the United Republic of Tanzania, through the Ministry of Industry and Trade, will continue to put in place enabling policies, laws and regulations to attract investors and support the establishment of industries in the country,” said Hon. Londo.
“Investments such as this apparel manufacturing facility demonstrate growing confidence in Tanzania’s industrial environment and our commitment to building a strong manufacturing base that creates jobs and adds value locally.”
A Global Brand with Deep Roots
Founded in 1904 in Ireland and still owned and managed by the Hughes family, Portwest operates in more than 150 countries and employs over 5,500 people globally. The company is internationally recognised for its innovation in occupational safety solutions, producing flame-resistant and high-visibility clothing, safety footwear, PPE accessories and fall-protection equipment.
Job Creation and Skills Development
The Dar es Salaam facility currently employs 200 workers, with existing infrastructure capable of scaling up to 1,000 direct jobs. The investment is expected to make a significant contribution to skills development, technology transfer and local value addition, in line with Tanzania’s industrialisation agenda and the objectives of the East African Community (EAC).
USD 8.8 Million Long-Term Commitment
The facility’s Human Resources Manager, Ms. Anna Lucas, revealed that Portwest has invested over USD 8.8 millionin the project.
“This investment reflects our long-term commitment to Tanzania. Beyond production, we are creating sustainable employment opportunities for Tanzanian youth and contributing to skills development within the local workforce,” she said.
Employees at the facility also noted that the factory has played a vital role in addressing youth unemployment, offering stable jobs alongside professional training and career development opportunities.
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