EQUITY BANK COMMEMORATES INTERNATIONAL MSME DAY, ENTERS INTO A STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH SIDO

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – June 27, 2026 (NSSF Mafao House, Ilala)

Equity Bank Tanzania has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) by entering a strategic partnership with the Small Industries Development Organization (SIDO). The landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was officially signed during the national commemoration of International MSME Day, held at the NSSF Mafao House in Ilala, Dar es Salaam, where Equity Bank participated as a key partner and organized by SIDO. This collaboration is set to support more than 8,000 entrepreneurs across Tanzania by providing comprehensive access to finance, business development services, financial literacy training, mentorship, and vital market linkage opportunities, underscoring a shared commitment to strengthening the country's entrepreneurial ecosystem.

MSMEs are widely acknowledged as the backbone of the economy, driving job creation, income generation, and community development, making them a cornerstone of inclusive economic progress. The partnership between Equity Bank and SIDO directly aligns with this global recognition, aiming to accelerate the formalization, growth, and sustainability of small businesses while enhancing their competitiveness in both local and international markets.

Speaking during the event, Ms. Theresia Aloyce Mayanie,Head of Retails at Equity Bank Tanzania, emphasized that MSMEs are central to the Bank's Africa Recovery and Resilience agenda, which seeks to empower businesses, create jobs, and improve livelihoods through inclusive financial services. "At Equity Bank, we believe that entrepreneurs are the engine of economic transformation. Every thriving business starts with a dream, and our role is to provide the financial solutions, knowledge, and opportunities that help turn those dreams into successful and sustainable enterprises," said Ms.Theresia. He further noted that the partnership with SIDO reflects the Bank's commitment to walking alongside entrepreneurs at every stage of their business journey, ensuring they have the support needed to navigate challenges and seize growth opportunities.

Ms. Theresia stressed the Bank's holistic approach, stating that access to finance alone is not enough; entrepreneurs also need knowledge, networks, mentorship, and market opportunities. Through this partnership with SIDO, the Bank is creating a comprehensive support system that will help over 8,000 entrepreneurs unlock their full potential, expand their businesses, and contribute meaningfully to Tanzania's economic development by increasing employment, fostering innovation, and improving community welfare.

Through this strategic collaboration, Equity Bank Tanzania will provide a comprehensive suite of tailored financial and non-financial solutions designed to address the unique needs of MSMEs. These include working capital financing to support day-to-day business operations, asset financing for the acquisition of machinery and productive equipment, and trade finance solutions to assist importers, exporters, distributors, and suppliers. The Bank will also offer agribusiness financing to strengthen agricultural value chains and rural enterprises, alongside specialized programs for women and youth entrepreneurs to promote inclusive economic participation. Digital banking solutions will enhance convenience and financial management, while financial literacy and business management training will strengthen entrepreneurial capacity, equipping business owners with the knowledge to build resilient and scalable enterprises.

As Tanzania joins the global community in celebrating MSME Day 2026, Equity Bank Tanzania remains steadfast in its dedication to being the financial partner of choice for entrepreneurs and businesses. The Bank continues to collaborate with government institutions and the private sector to foster a better business environment, champion financial inclusion, and drive shared prosperity, solidifying its mission of transforming lives and creating wealth through enterprise development.

For further communication and assistance, please contact:
Phone: 0768 985 500
Email: infotz@equitybank.co.tz
Or visit the Equity branch nearest to you.