ABSA: WHY AFRICA IS EMERGING AS A STRATEGIC GLOBAL TRADE CONNECTOR

By Nellyana Mmanyi, Corporate Banking Director, Absa Bank Tanzania

Global trade is being reshaped by geopolitics, as supply chains fragment and new alliances redraw the map of commerce. For Africa, this is not simply disruption—it is a strategic opening.

In this pivotal decade, as companies diversify their sourcing and rethink trade routes, the continent, particularly East Africa, is emerging as a critical connector between global markets.

Turning this moment into meaningful growth will depend on reducing friction, improving access to trade finance and enabling businesses to move with speed and certainty. This is where banks can play a fundamental role.

FROM EFFICIENCY TO RESILIENCE

As geopolitical shifts disrupt traditional patterns of trade, there is a palpable move from prioritising efficiency to building resilience.

Corporates are diversifying their supply chains and reducing dependence on a single country, including China. They are increasingly favouring nearshoring and friendshoring while expanding sourcing relationships across Southeast Asia and India.

Trade routes are becoming more regional and complex, with multiple sourcing and transit options built into supply chains to help manage geopolitical risks.

More corridor-based trade routes are emerging, with proximity to geopolitical markets increasingly influencing where and how businesses trade.

Africa is increasingly acting as both a production base and a trade connector between the Middle East and Asia. This is evident across agriculture, business, manufacturing and transit trade, supported by improving port infrastructure and growing regional integration.

EAST AFRICA: A STRATEGIC TRADE BRIDGE

East Africa is no longer simply a future opportunity—it is already emerging as a strategic trade bridge, with the region firmly positioned as one of the continent’s key growth hubs.

The growing interest from major international and regional banks seeking to establish or expand their presence in East Africa is a clear indication of where Africa's growth momentum lies.

From a logistics and trade perspective, East Africa plays a pivotal gateway role.

The Port of Dar es Salaam, for example, is a critical entry point supporting landlocked markets such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, Uganda and Rwanda.

VODACOM TANZANIA YAONGOZA PEDALI ZA NYERERE CYCLING TOUR 2026: SAFARI YA KM 1,500 HADI BUTIAMA 🚴‍♂️🇹🇿

Washirika wa Nyerere Cycling Tour 2026, wakiongozwa na Mkurugenzi wa Uhusiano na Mawasiliano wa Vodacom Tanzania PLC, Zuweina Farah (wa nne kulia), aliyewakilisha Vodacom Tanzania PLC kama mdhamini mkuu wa msafara huo, wakiwa katika picha ya pamoja wakati wa mkutano na waandishi wa habari na wadau wa msafara huo, uliolenga kutangaza rasmi washirika wa zamani na wapya wa Nyerere Cycling Tour.

Katika picha, kutoka kushoto, ni Mkurugenzi wa Afroil, Mohamed Al-Jabry (wa pili kushoto); Meneja wa Uendelevu wa Stanbic Bank Tanzania, Annette Nkini (wa tatu kushoto); Mkuu wa Masoko na Mauzo wa BYD, Samwel Msonsa (wa nne kushoto); Mwanzilishi wa Nyerere Cycling Tour, Gabriel Landa; Meneja wa Akaunti ya Vodacom Huawei, Victor Wang; na Katibu Mtendaji wa Coca-Cola Tanzania, Yvette Gadi.

Mkutano huo ulifanyika jijini Dar es Salaam, Septemba 11, 2026.

Baadhi ya washiriki wa Nyerere Cycling Tour wakiwa katika mkutano na waandishi wa habari na wadau wa msafara huo, uliolenga kutangaza rasmi washirika wa zamani na wapya wa Nyerere Cycling Tour.

WAENDESHA BAISKELI 213 KUTOKA NCHI 12 KUSHIRIKI; ELIMU, AFYA NA MAZINGIRA KUWA MISINGI YA SAFARI

DAR ES SALAAM - Septemba 11, 2026: Pedali zimeanza kuzunguka, nguvu zimeongezeka na maandalizi ya Nyerere Cycling Tour 2026 yameingia hatua nyingine baada ya kutangazwa rasmi kwa washirika watakaoungana na msafara huo katika safari ya takribani kilomita 1,500 hadi Butiama, Mara.

Safari hiyo itafanyika kuanzia Oktoba 5 hadi 14, 2026, huku Vodacom Tanzania ikiendelea kuwa Mshirika Mkuu wa msafara huo, ikishirikiana na Afro Oil, Stanbic Bank Tanzania, BYD, ABC Bicycle, Coca-Cola na Huawei.

Safari ya mwaka huu si kuhusu kuendesha baiskeli pekee, bali ni safari yenye dhamira ya kutumia michezo kama chachu ya elimu, afya, uhifadhi wa mazingira na maendeleo ya jamii.

🚴‍♂️ VODACOM YAENDELEA KUONGOZA PEDALI

Akizungumza wakati wa mkutano na waandishi wa habari, Mkurugenzi wa Uhusiano na Mawasiliano wa Vodacom Tanzania, Zuweina Farah, alisema Vodacom itaendelea kushirikiana na Nyerere Cycling Tour kama mshirika mkuu, akieleza kuwa ushirikiano huo unaonesha dhamira ya kampuni ya kuendelea kuunga mkono mipango yenye kuleta matokeo chanya kwa jamii nchini.

Mwanzilishi wa Nyerere Cycling Tour, Gabriel Landa (wa kwanza kulia), akizungumza wakati wa mkutano na waandishi wa habari na washirika wa msafara huo. Majadiliano hayo yalihusu namna washirika hao watakavyoshiriki katika msafara huo.

Farah alisema Vodacom pia inafurahia kuwapokea washirika wapya ambao ushiriki wao utaongeza thamani katika safari ya mwaka huu na kusaidia kupanua wigo pamoja na matokeo ya msafara huo.

🏫 MADAWATI 1,000, MADARASA 50 NA WANAFUNZI 25,000

Katika safari ya mwaka huu, Vodacom inatarajia kutoa madawati 1,000 kwa shule 10, kukarabati madarasa 40 na kujenga madarasa mapya 10.

Shughuli hizo zinatarajiwa kuwafikia zaidi ya wanafunzi 25,000, ikiwa ni sehemu ya juhudi za kuboresha mazingira ya kujifunzia na kuchochea maendeleo ya elimu.

Katika safari zilizopita, Nyerere Cycling Tour ilifikia shule 107, ambapo zaidi ya wanafunzi 75,000 walinufaika.

VODACOM TANZANIA CUTS EMISSIONS BY 24% AS RENEWABLE ENERGY REACHES 57%

Vodacom Tanzania Plc Network Director, Andrew Lupembe, speaks to journalists during the launch of the 2026 ESG Report.

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; September 11, 2026 — Vodacom Tanzania has reported significant progress in its environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance, with the company achieving a 24% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 market-based greenhouse gas emissions during the financial year ended March 31, 2026.

According to the company’s FY2026 Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Snapshot, total Scope 1 and 2 market-based emissions declined to 18,445.5 tonnes of CO₂e, from 24,285.6 tonnes in FY2025.

The reduction was largely driven by lower diesel generator usage following improvements in electricity availability and grid connectivity, alongside energy-efficiency gains from the modernisation of the company’s radio network.

DIESEL CONSUMPTION FALLS BY 24%

Vodacom Tanzania’s diesel consumption fell by 24%, from 8.6 million litres in FY2025 to 6.6 million litres in FY2026.

The company said improved national power availability, together with efforts to connect off-grid network sites to the national grid, played an important role in reducing dependence on diesel generators.

During FY2026, 169 off-grid sites were connected to the national electricity grid. At the Kwale data centre, for example, a power upgrade from 11kVA to 33kVA reduced generator operating time from 18 hours a day to just two hours, resulting in an 88% reduction in diesel consumption at the facility.

RENEWABLE ENERGY NOW ACCOUNTS FOR 57%

Vodacom Tanzania said 57% of its total energy consumption came from renewable sources during FY2026.

The company maintained its target of matching 100% of purchased grid electricity with electricity from renewable sources, supported by renewable energy purchases, solar generation and power purchase agreements. As a result, its Scope 2 market-based greenhouse gas emissions were reduced to zero.

Vodacom also invested TZS 3.53 billion in energy-efficiency initiatives, generating 18,340 MWh in energy savings, compared with 2,861 MWh in FY2025.

CONNECTIVITY AND DIGITAL INCLUSION

Beyond its environmental performance, Vodacom Tanzania continued to expand digital connectivity and financial inclusion.

The company’s network reached 27.7 million customers, while it launched Tanzania’s first 5G network, supporting the country’s growing digital economy and enabling new applications across homes, businesses and public spaces.

AKIBA COMMERCIAL BANK AND NATIONAL BANK OF MALAWI STRENGTHEN TANZANIA–MALAWI TRADE AND INVESTMENT TIES

Malawi’s Minister of Industry, Business and Trade and Tourism, Hon. Simon Itaye (third from left), visits the joint ACB–NBM pavilion, where he was welcomed by Akiba Commercial Bank Acting Managing Director, Ms. Wezi Mwazani (second from right).

DAR ES SALAAM, SEPTEMBER 11, 2026 — Akiba Commercial Bank Plc (ACB), in collaboration with its strategic partner National Bank of Malawi (NBM), has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening trade, investment and financial cooperation between Tanzania and Malawi following its participation in the Tanzania–Malawi Investment Forum.

The three-day forum, held from September 7 to 9, 2026 at the TANTRADE grounds in Dar es Salaam, brought together Government officials, investors, business leaders, financial institutions and other stakeholders from the two countries to explore opportunities for expanding bilateral trade, investment and economic cooperation.

Ms. Wezi Mwazani, Akiba Commercial Bank Acting Managing Director, addresses participants during the Tanzania–Malawi Investment Forum in Dar es Salaam.

ACB’s participation highlighted the Bank’s commitment to supporting businesses with appropriate financial solutions that facilitate trade, investment and cross-border expansion.

Speaking during the forum, ACB Acting Managing Director, Ms. Wezi Mwazani, said the Bank was pleased to participate in a platform that brings together Government, businesses and the financial sector to unlock investment opportunities and create meaningful commercial partnerships.

“At Akiba Commercial Bank, we believe that economic growth accelerates when opportunities are connected to capital, markets and the right partnerships,” Ms. Mwazani said.

STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH NBM

ACB’s participation in the forum was further strengthened by its strategic partnership with National Bank of Malawi, a key investor in Akiba Commercial Bank.

Akiba Commercial Bank Acting Managing Director, Ms. Wezi Mwazani, receives a Certificate of Appreciation in recognition of Akiba Commercial Bank’s support as a key sponsor of the event.

The partnership demonstrates the potential of cross-border investment and financial-sector collaboration in strengthening economic ties between Tanzania and Malawi.

Through the partnership, ACB and NBM see opportunities to facilitate trade, investment and financial flows between the two markets, while connecting businesses and investors to new opportunities.

SERIKALI YAJIVUNIA MCHANGO WA UMOJA WA MABENKI TANZANIA (TBA) KATIKA KUSTAWISHA SEKTA YA FEDHA

KIZIMKAZI, ZANZIBAR: Serikali imesema itaendelea kushirikiana na Umoja wa Mabenki Tanzania (TBA) katika kujenga sekta ya fedha yenye nguvu, ubunifu na jumuishi, kwa lengo la kukuza uchumi wa Taifa na kuongeza fursa za kifedha kwa Watanzania.

Akizungumza katika hafla ya chakula cha jioni iliyoandaliwa na TBA huko Kizimkazi, Mkoa wa Kusini Unguja, kwa ajili ya kuadhimisha miaka 30 ya Umoja huo, Makamu wa Pili wa Rais wa Zanzibar, Mhe. Hemed Suleiman Abdulla, amesema Serikali inajivunia mchango mkubwa wa sekta ya kibenki katika kustawisha sekta ya fedha nchini.

Amesema katika kipindi cha miaka 30, sekta ya kibenki imepiga hatua kubwa za kimaendeleo na kuwa nguzo muhimu katika kuchochea ukuaji wa uchumi.

Kwa mujibu wa Mhe. Hemed, Tanzania imepitia mageuzi makubwa katika sekta ya kibenki, ambapo huduma za kifedha zimeondokana na utegemezi mkubwa wa matawi na huduma za ana kwa ana na kuelekea kwenye mifumo ya kidijitali inayounganisha benki, simu za mkononi na mifumo mbalimbali ya malipo.

Amesema mabadiliko hayo yamerahisisha upatikanaji wa huduma za fedha na kuwawezesha mamilioni ya Watanzania kupata huduma za kifedha, mitaji ya biashara, fursa za uwekezaji na kuweka akiba.

“Hatua hiyo imechangia kuleta matokeo chanya, ambapo mamilioni ya Watanzania wameweza kupata huduma za kifedha, mitaji ya biashara, fursa za kuwekeza na kuweka akiba, pamoja na kuchochea uundaji wa ajira na shughuli za uzalishaji, hivyo kuchangia katika kustawisha uchumi wetu,” alisisitiza.

TBA YAWEKA RASILIMALI KWENYE SHUGHULI ZA UZALISHAJI

Awali, Naibu Gavana wa Benki Kuu ya Tanzania, Dkt. Rahma Mahfoudh, amesema TBA, kupitia mabenki wanachama, imekuwa na mchango mkubwa katika kuelekeza rasilimali fedha kwenye shughuli mbalimbali za uzalishaji na maendeleo ya Taifa.

TANZANIA BANKERS ASSOCIATION CONFERENCE PUTS MSMEs AT HEART OF TANZANIA’S 2050 DEVELOPMENT AGENDA

KIZIMKAZI, ZANZIBAR — September 4, 2026

Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) have been placed at the centre of Tanzania’s and Zanzibar’s development ambitions towards 2050, with the financial sector expected to play a critical role in expanding access to finance and creating economic opportunities.

This was among the key messages emerging from the Tanzania Bankers Association (TBA) Research and Financial Inclusion Conference 2026, held from September 3–4, 2026 at Kwanza Resort Hotel in Kizimkazi, South Unguja, Zanzibar.

The two-day conference brought together financial-sector leaders, researchers, government officials, regulators, academics, development partners and other stakeholders to discuss banking research, financial inclusion and access to finance for MSMEs.

MSMEs KEY TO 2050 DEVELOPMENT VISIONS

Speaking at the conference, Hon. Dr. Hamad Omar Bakari, Deputy Minister for Finance and Planning, Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar, said Tanzania’s economic growth continues to be driven by increased production and national output, with the financial sector playing an important role in ensuring that the benefits of this growth reach a broader segment of society.

He emphasised that achieving the objectives outlined in the Tanzania Development Vision 2050 and Zanzibar Development Vision 2050 requires MSMEs to remain at the centre of the development agenda because of their contribution to production, trade, employment and a wide range of economic activities.

“The Tanzania Development Vision 2050 and the Zanzibar Development Vision 2050 place MSMEs at the heart of building an inclusive and prosperous nation with sustainable development,” the Deputy Minister said.

FINANCIAL INCLUSION REMAINS CRITICAL

The conference also highlighted progress in expanding access to financial services, while recognising that significant gaps remain in ensuring individuals and businesses can effectively use those services.

Participants noted the close relationship between economic growth, financial-sector development and financial inclusion. When economic growth is accompanied by expanded and effective use of financial services, individuals and businesses are better positioned to participate in formal economic activities.

For MSMEs, access to appropriate and affordable financial services can strengthen business capacity, support investment, facilitate expansion and contribute to employment creation and broader economic development.

FOCUS ON MSME FINANCING, DIGITAL LENDING AND INNOVATION

The conference was held under the theme:

“Transforming MSME Financing for Sustainable Development: Policy Reforms, Innovation, and Opportunities.”

The theme underscored the need for policy reforms, innovation and the utilisation of emerging opportunities to improve access to finance for MSMEs and support sustainable development.

Throughout the conference, participants examined research evidence and emerging challenges affecting MSME financing, financial inclusion, digital lending, policy and regulation.

NMB JOINS GOAT RACES TO DRIVE YOUTH EDUCATION, TARGETS TZS 200 MILLION TO SUPPORT 150 YOUNG PEOPLE

DAR ES SALAAM; September 10, 2026 — The goats are getting ready to race, but this time the finish line is about much more than winning a race — it is about opening doors to education for young Tanzanians!

NMB Bank has joined the Goat Races 2026 for the first time as a sponsor of the fundraising event, which aims to raise TZS 200 million to support 150 young people pursuing university education and vocational training.

The event is scheduled for September 19, 2026, at Posta Grounds in Kijitonyama, Dar es Salaam.

In other words, this year's Goat Races are not just about goats running — they are about young people's dreams taking off.

NMB: INVESTING IN EDUCATION, INVESTING IN THE FUTURE

NMB Bank Head of Private Banking, Getrude Mallya, said the bank's decision to become a sponsor follows its participation in last year's event and reflects the strong alignment between Rotary's objectives and NMB's long-standing investment in education and community development.

NMB allocates one percent of its annual profit after tax to social investment initiatives, with education remaining one of the key areas of focus.

In 2025 alone, the bank donated 6,365 desks to 124 schools across Tanzania, benefiting approximately 19,095 students.

Through its participation in Goat Races 2026, NMB is adding another dimension to this commitment — helping young people access higher education and vocational skills that can improve their opportunities and livelihoods.

LAST YEAR, 136 STUDENTS BENEFITED

President of the Rotary Club of Dar es Salaam Oysterbay, Paul Muhato, said the initiative raised TZS 167 million last year, of which TZS 163 million was used to support 136 students.

Of these, 100 students joined universities, while 36 enrolled in vocational training programmes.

NMB YAINGIA MBIO ZA MBUZI KUSUKUMA ELIMU YA VIJANA, YALENGA SH. MILIONI 200 KUSAIDIA VIJANA 150

DAR ES SALAAM; Septemba 10, 2026 — Mbuzi wanajiandaa kukimbia, lakini safari hii si burudani tu — mbio hizo zina lengo la kufungua milango ya elimu kwa vijana!

NMB imeingia kwenye mbio hizo kwa mara ya kwanza ikiwa mdhamini wa Goat Races 2026, tukio la kuchangisha fedha litakalofanyika Septemba 19, 2026 katika Viwanja vya Posta, Kijitonyama, Dar es Salaam, likiwa na lengo la kukusanya Sh. milioni 200 kwa ajili ya kuwawezesha vijana 150 kujiunga na vyuo vikuu na mafunzo ya ufundi.

Kwa lugha nyingine, safari hii “mbio za mbuzi” ni mbio za kuwekeza kwenye ndoto za vijana.

Mkuu wa Idara ya Wateja Maalum wa NMB, Getrude Mallya, amesema uamuzi wa benki hiyo kuingia kwenye tukio hilo umetokana na uzoefu wa NMB kushiriki katika tukio la mwaka jana pamoja na kuona ulinganifu mkubwa kati ya malengo ya Rotary na uwekezaji ambao NMB imekuwa ikiufanya katika sekta ya elimu.

“Tunapoangalia elimu, tunaangalia zaidi ya madarasa na madawati; tunaangalia fursa zinazoweza kubadilisha maisha ya vijana na kuwapa uwezo wa kujenga kesho yao,” ni ujumbe unaobebwa na ushiriki wa NMB katika tukio hilo.

NMB: ELIMU NI UWEKEZAJI, SI GHARAMA

NMB imeendelea kuweka elimu katika ajenda yake ya uwekezaji kwa jamii, ambapo hutenga asilimia moja ya faida baada ya kodi kila mwaka kwa ajili ya shughuli za kijamii.

Mwaka 2025 pekee, benki hiyo ilitoa madawati 6,365 kwa shule 124 nchini, hatua iliyonufaisha takribani wanafunzi 19,095.

Ushiriki wa NMB kwenye Goat Races 2026 unaongeza sura nyingine katika jitihada hizo — safari hii ikilenga moja kwa moja kuwasaidia vijana kupata elimu ya juu na ujuzi wa ufundi.

MWAKA JANA, VIJANA 136 WALINUFAIKA

Rais wa Rotary Club of Dar es Salaam Oysterbay, Paul Muhato, amesema kampeni ya mwaka jana ilifanikiwa kukusanya Sh. milioni 167, ambapo Sh. milioni 163 zilitumika kusaidia wanafunzi 136.

Kati yao, wanafunzi 100 walijiunga na vyuo vikuu, huku 36 wakijiunga na mafunzo ya ufundi.

Matokeo hayo yanaonyesha kwamba kila mchango unaotolewa kwenye tukio hili unaweza kubadilika kuwa ada ya chuo, ujuzi, taaluma na hatimaye maisha bora kwa kijana.

SEPTEMBA 19: MBIO ZENYE MAANA ZAIDI

Kwa hiyo, Septemba 19 si siku ya kushangilia mbuzi wakikimbia pekee.

Ni siku ya kukimbiza ndoto za vijana.

TANZANIA–MALAWI BUSINESS FORUM OPENS NEW TRADE & INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES AS ECOBANK SUPPORTS CROSS-BORDER BUSINESS

Second left: Hon. Simon Itaye, Malawi’s Minister of Industrialisation, Business, Trade and Tourism and Guest of Honour, visits the Ecobank Pavilion during the Tanzania–Malawi Business and Investment Forum. Right: Ms. Furaha Samalu, Head of Brand and Communication, Ecobank Tanzania.

Colleagues from Ecobank Malawi during the Tanzania–Malawi Business and Investment Forum. Second left: Ms. Alinafe Chikudzу, Head of Trade, Ecobank Malawi; third left: Ms. Tisaiwale Khomba Milandu, Head of SME, Ecobank Malawi.

DAR ES SALAAM - September 10, 2026: Tanzania and Malawi are exploring new opportunities to deepen trade, investment and business partnerships following the Third Tanzania–Malawi Business and Investment Forum, which brought together government leaders, investors, businesses and other stakeholders from the two countries.

The Forum, organised by the Tanzania Trade Development Authority (TANTRADE) and the Malawi Investment and Trade Centre (MITC), provided a platform for the private and public sectors to identify opportunities for expanding commercial relations between the two neighbouring countries.

Ephraim Mafuru, Director General of TANTRADE (right), shakes hands with Ms. Furaha Samalu, Head of Brand and Communication, Ecobank Tanzania, at the Ecobank Pavilion during the Third Tanzania–Malawi Business and Investment Forum in Dar es Salaam.

Ecobank Tanzania was among the key financial-sector participants at the Forum, engaging with businesses and stakeholders on opportunities to strengthen cross-border trade, investment and access to financial solutions.

Held at the Saba Saba grounds in Dar es Salaam under the theme “Unlocking Tanzania–Malawi Opportunities: Driving Trade, Investment and Sustainable Growth,” the Forum focused on sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, mining, energy, tourism, ICT and logistics.

Malawi’s Minister of Industrialisation, Business, Trade and Tourism, Hon. Simon Itaye, joined the Forum as Guest of Honour and officially opened the event.

The discussions come at a time when trade between Tanzania and Malawi is continuing to grow, creating an opportunity for businesses in both countries to move beyond traditional trade towards joint investment, manufacturing, value addition and cross-border value chains.

TRADE BETWEEN TANZANIA AND MALAWI ON THE RISE

Speaking at the closing of the Forum, Tanzania’s High Commissioner to Malawi, Agnes Kayola, called on governments and the private sectors of both countries to transform growing trade opportunities into investments in joint manufacturing ventures and value addition.

According to Kayola, Tanzania’s exports to Malawi increased from US$64.05 million in 2021 to US$89.47 million in 2025, while the trade balance reached US$74.30 million.

The growth demonstrates that the two countries already have a strong foundation for commercial cooperation, but also points to considerable room for further expansion.

CREDITINFO LAUNCHES GLOBAL FRAUD AND IDENTITY SOLUTIONS IN TANZANIA

Creditinfo Tanzania Board Chairman Israel Kamuzora (left) exchanges views with Deogratias Mnyamani from the Bank of Tanzania (centre) shortly after the launch of a new service known as Fraud and Identity Solutions, aimed at helping financial institutions identify fraudulent borrowers. Creditinfo Tanzania Chief Executive Officer Edwin Urasa is pictured on the right.

NEW SOLUTIONS TARGET DIGITAL FRAUD, IDENTITY THEFT AND FINANCIAL CRIME AS TANZANIA’S DIGITAL FINANCIAL SERVICES EXPAND

DAR ES SALAAM, TANZANIA – SEPTEMBER 7, 2026: Creditinfo, a global provider of credit information and risk management solutions, has announced the rollout of its global fraud, identity and Know Your Customer (KYC) solutions in Tanzania, marking an important development in efforts to strengthen trust, security and risk management across the country’s rapidly evolving digital financial services ecosystem.

The launch comes at a time when Tanzania’s financial sector is undergoing significant digital transformation, with banking, lending, insurance and payment services increasingly being delivered through digital channels.

Deogratias Mnyamani from the Bank of Tanzania speaks during the launch of a new service known as Fraud and Identity Solutions, which is designed to help lending financial institutions identify fraudulent borrowers. The service is provided by Creditinfo Tanzania.

Digital lending, instant payments, remote account opening and other technology-driven services have made financial services faster and more accessible to individuals and businesses. However, the expansion of digital channels has also created new opportunities for financial crime, including identity theft, impersonation, synthetic identities and application fraud.

Against this backdrop, financial institutions and other organisations are under increasing pressure to strengthen their fraud prevention and customer verification capabilities while ensuring that legitimate customers can access financial services efficiently.

STRENGTHENING CUSTOMER VERIFICATION AND FRAUD PREVENTION

Creditinfo’s new solution is designed to help organisations verify the identities of individuals and businesses by combining credit bureau data, alternative information sources and authoritative registries.

Pius Hilla, Director of Legal Services at the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), speaks during the launch of a new service known as Fraud and Identity Solutions, aimed at helping financial institutions identify fraudulent borrowers.

The platform also brings together digital risk signals with international and domestic watchlists, giving organisations a broader view of potential risks during customer onboarding and throughout the customer relationship.

This capability could be particularly relevant for banks, digital lenders, fintech companies, insurers, payment service providers and other businesses that increasingly rely on remote customer interactions.

NMB COMMITS TZS 165 MILLION TO BOOST SALES AND DIGITAL PAYMENTS AT KARIAKOO FESTIVAL 2026

NMB Bank Plc Head of Business Banking, Alex Mgeni (left), demonstrates how to pay for goods using NMB Mkononi during the launch of Kariakoo Festival 2026 in Dar es Salaam. Looking on are One Voice Events Managing Director and Kariakoo Festival Coordinator, George Lupenza (centre), and Clouds Media Group Chief Creative and Strategy Officer, Reuben Ndege (right).

NMB Bank Head of Business Banking, Alex Mgeni, speaks during the launch of Kariakoo Festival 2026 in Dar es Salaam. He said the festival would create more sales opportunities for traders while expanding the use of digital payment solutions.

Dar es Salaam | September 9, 2026

TRADERS in Kariakoo are expected to benefit from wider sales opportunities and greater access to digital payment channels during the third Kariakoo Festival, following NMB Bank’s announcement of TZS 165 million in sponsorship.

The three-day festival, themed “Bei Shwaa Shwaa,” will take place from September 25 to 27, 2026, at the Mnazi Mmoja grounds in Dar es Salaam, bringing together traders and buyers for a major shopping event featuring discounted prices.

The 2026 edition was officially launched on September 8 through a traders’ procession that started at Mnazi Mmoja, passed through Lumumba and Uhuru roads, as well as Msimbazi and Mkunguni streets, before ending at Kariakoo Market.

Kariakoo Markets Corporation General Manager Ashraph Abdulkarim led the launch on behalf of Ilala District Commissioner Edward Mpogolo. Leaders from the Kariakoo Traders Association and festival organisers also attended the event.

NMB TO EXPAND DIGITAL PAYMENTS

Speaking at the launch, NMB Head of Business Banking Alex Mgeni said the bank would use the festival as an opportunity to help traders reach more customers while expanding the use of secure digital payment channels and reducing reliance on cash.

“NMB wants to be present wherever business takes place. We want to see traders in Kariakoo, Dar es Salaam and across Tanzania grow together with their businesses,” Mr. Mgeni said.

During the festival, traders will be able to receive payments through NMB Lipa Namba and NMB Mkononi.

The bank will also showcase NMB Tap, a contactless payment solution that enables customers to make payments using devices such as rings, wristbands and payment stickers.

NMB YAWEKA SH. MILIONI 165 KUSUKUMA MAUZO KARIAKOO, YAPANUA MALIPO YA KIDIJITALI KARIAKOO FESTIVAL 2026

Mkuu wa Idara ya Biashara wa Benki ya NMB, Alex Mgeni (kushoto), akionesha namna ya kulipia bidhaa kupitia NMB Mkononi wakati wa uzinduzi wa Kariakoo Festival 2026 jijini Dar es Salaam. Wanaoshuhudia ni Mkurugenzi Mtendaji wa One Voice Events na Mratibu wa tamasha hilo, George Lupenza (katikati), pamoja na Mkuu wa Ubunifu na Mikakati wa Clouds Media Group, Reuben Ndege (kulia).

Mkuu wa Idara ya Biashara wa Benki ya NMB, Alex Mgeni, akizungumza wakati wa uzinduzi wa Kariakoo Festival 2026 jijini Dar es Salaam. Alisema tamasha hilo litatumika kuongeza fursa za mauzo kwa wafanyabiashara na kupanua matumizi ya malipo ya kidijitali.

DAR ES SALAAM | Septemba 9, 2026

Wafanyabiashara wa Kariakoo wanatarajiwa kupata fursa zaidi za kuongeza mauzo na kupokea malipo kwa njia za kidijitali kupitia msimu wa tatu wa Kariakoo Festival 2026, baada ya Benki ya NMB kutangaza udhamini wa Shilingi milioni 165 kwa ajili ya tamasha hilo.

Tamasha hilo lenye kaulimbiu “Bei Shwaa Shwaa” litafanyika kuanzia Septemba 25 hadi 27, 2026, katika Viwanja vya Mnazi Mmoja, Dar es Salaam, likiwakutanisha wafanyabiashara na wanunuzi kwa siku tatu za mauzo ya bidhaa kwa bei za punguzo.

Msimu wa tatu wa Kariakoo Festival ulizinduliwa Septemba 8, 2026, kwa msafara maalumu wa wafanyabiashara ulioanzia Viwanja vya Mnazi Mmoja na kupita Barabara za Lumumba na Uhuru pamoja na mitaa ya Msimbazi na Mkunguni, kabla ya kuishia katika Soko Kuu la Kariakoo.

Uzinduzi huo uliongozwa na Meneja Mkuu wa Shirika la Masoko ya Kariakoo, Ashraph Abdulkarim, kwa niaba ya Mkuu wa Wilaya ya Ilala, Edward Mpogolo. Viongozi wa Jumuiya ya Wafanyabiashara wa Kariakoo na waandaaji wa tamasha hilo pia walishiriki.

Akizungumza wakati wa uzinduzi huo, Mkuu wa Idara ya Biashara wa NMB, Alex Mgeni, alisema benki hiyo inalenga kutumia tamasha hilo kupanua soko la wafanyabiashara na kuongeza matumizi ya njia salama za malipo zinazopunguza utegemezi wa fedha taslimu.

“NMB tunataka kuwapo kila pale ambapo biashara ipo. Tunataka kuona wafanyabiashara wa Kariakoo, Dar es Salaam na Tanzania kwa ujumla wakikua pamoja na biashara zao,” alisema Mgeni.

MALIPO YA KIDIJITALI

Mgeni alisema wakati wa tamasha hilo, wafanyabiashara watapata huduma za kupokea malipo kupitia NMB Lipa Namba na NMB Mkononi.

NMB pia itaonesha matumizi ya NMB Tap, teknolojia inayowezesha malipo kwa kutumia vifaa kama pete, bangili au stika kwenye vituo vinavyokubali malipo ya kugusa.

Kwa mujibu wa Mgeni, mifumo hiyo itawarahisishia wafanyabiashara kuhudumia wanunuzi kwa haraka na kuweka kumbukumbu za miamala yao, hasa katika kipindi ambacho tamasha linatarajiwa kuvutia idadi kubwa ya wateja.

STANBIC BANK AND ZEEA SIGN FIVE-YEAR PARTNERSHIP TO ADVANCE ENTERPRISE GROWTH IN ZANZIBAR

Fredrick Max, Head of Business and Commercial Banking at Stanbic Bank Tanzania (left), and Juma Burhan Mohamed, Executive Director of the Zanzibar Economic Empowerment Agency (ZEEA) (right), display copies of the signed five-year Memorandum of Understanding aimed at strengthening entrepreneurship, access to finance and sustainable business growth in Zanzibar. The signing was witnessed by the Second Vice President of Zanzibar, H.E. Hemed Suleiman Abdullah, during the Fahari ya Zanzibar 2026 Festival.

• Agreement will expand practical support for entrepreneurs and MSMEs across Unguja and Pemba

• Partnership combines ZEEA’s economic empowerment mandate with Stanbic’s financial expertise, enterprise development capability and access to wider markets

• Signing takes place at Fahari ya Zanzibar 2026, where Stanbic has committed TZS 200 million as a Platinum Sponsor

The Second Vice President of Zanzibar, H.E. Hemed Suleiman Abdulla, witnesses the signing of a five-year Memorandum of Understanding between Stanbic Bank Tanzania and the Zanzibar Economic Empowerment Agency (ZEEA), aimed at strengthening entrepreneurship, access to finance and sustainable business growth in Zanzibar. The agreement was signed by Fredrick Max, Head of Business and Commercial Banking at Stanbic Bank Tanzania (left), and Juma Burhan Mohamed, Executive Director of ZEEA (right), during the Fahari ya Zanzibar 2026 Festival.

ZANZIBAR — September 5, 2026: Stanbic Bank Tanzania and the Zanzibar Economic Empowerment Agency (ZEEA) have signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) establishing a strategic partnership to strengthen entrepreneurship, financial inclusion and sustainable business growth across Zanzibar.

The agreement was signed during the official launch of Fahari ya Zanzibar 2026 at Mnazi Mmoja Grounds and witnessed by H.E. Hemed Suleiman Abdullah, Second Vice President of Zanzibar.

At the heart of the partnership is a shared ambition to help more businesses in Zanzibar move from potential to sustainable growth.

Under the agreement, Stanbic and ZEEA will work together to strengthen financial literacy, business formalisation, access to finance, digital financial services, enterprise development and market access for entrepreneurs and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across Unguja and Pemba.

The partnership builds on the purpose of Fahari ya Zanzibar itself. The national trade fair was created to showcase Zanzibar products and enterprises to the market, connecting entrepreneurs with customers, buyers, financial institutions, investors and business development support.

This year’s festival is expected to attract more than 15,000 visitors and over 300 exhibitors from sectors including agriculture, fisheries, tourism, innovation, manufacturing, food processing and the creative economy.

For Stanbic, the partnership reflects a broader understanding of what businesses need to succeed. While access to finance remains important, sustainable growth also depends on stronger business capabilities, sound financial management, digital readiness, access to markets, mentorship and the right networks.

Fredrick Max, Head of Business and Commercial Banking at Stanbic Bank Tanzania, said the agreement provides the Bank and ZEEA with a practical platform to help more entrepreneurs turn their ambitions into viable and competitive businesses.

“Zanzibar has no shortage of enterprise, ideas or ambition. The opportunity now is to help more businesses turn that potential into scale. That requires finance, but it also requires knowledge, stronger business systems, digital capability, market access and connections. Our partnership with ZEEA brings these elements together so that more entrepreneurs can build businesses that are ready to grow.”

MASHINDANO YA VODACOM CORPORATE MASTERS GOLF YAMALIZIKA KWA MAFANIKIO, YAIMARISHA MAHUSIANO YA KIBIASHARA

Washindi wa Vodacom Corporate Masters Golf Tournament 2026 katika makundi mbalimbali wakiwa katika picha ya pamoja baada ya kukabidhiwa zawadi zao katika hafla iliyofanyika Lugalo Golf Club, Dar es Salaam, mwishoni mwa wiki.

Mkurugenzi wa Vodacom Business, Nguvu Kamando (kulia), akikabidhi tiketi ya kwenda na kurudi Mauritius kwa mshindi wa jumla kwa upande wa wanaume, Khalid Shemndolwa (wa tatu kushoto), katika Vodacom Corporate Masters Golf Tournament 2026, iliyofanyika Lugalo Golf Club, Dar es Salaam.

Dar es Salaam, Septemba 5, 2026: Vodacom Tanzania PLC, kwa kushirikiana na Oakwood Holdings Limited, imehitimisha kwa mafanikio mashindano ya Vodacom Corporate Masters Golf 2026, yaliyofanyika katika Uwanja wa TPDF Lugalo Golf Club jijini Dar es Salaam.

Mashindano hayo yaliwakutanisha takribani wachezaji 150 kutoka Tanzania na nchi jirani, wakiwemo viongozi wa biashara, wakurugenzi, wakuu wa kampuni pamoja na wapenzi wa mchezo wa gofu.

Katika mashindano hayo ya siku moja, Khalid Shemndolwa na Yvonne Ondari waliibuka washindi wa jumla kwa upande wa wanaume na wanawake, mtawalia. Shemndolwa alikusanya pointi 42, huku Ondari naye akifikisha pointi 42.

Katika madaraja mengine, Godfrey Abel alitwaa ubingwa wa Daraja A baada ya kupata pointi 42, akifuatiwa na Likuli Juma aliyemaliza na pointi 41.

Kwa upande wa Daraja B, Sigfrid Urassa aliibuka mshindi kwa pointi 40, akimzidi Godfrey Kilenga, ambaye pia alipata pointi 40, lakini Urassa akashinda kwa kutumia kanuni ya countback.

BENKI YA EXIM YAADHIMISHA MIAKA 29 YA UBORA KWA VITENDO KWA KUSAIDIA JUHUDI ZA USAFI KWA JAMII

Mkuu wa Kitengo cha Masoko na Mawasiliano wa Benki ya Exim Tanzania, Bw. Stanley Kafu (wa pili kulia), akipeana mikono na Diwani wa Kata ya Kawe, Mheshimiwa Fabian Malima (katikati), baada ya kukabidhi vifaa vya usafi kwa Manispaa ya Kinondoni.

Shughuli hiyo ilifanyika kama sehemu ya kilele cha maadhimisho ya miaka 29 tangu kuanzishwa kwa Benki ya Exim Tanzania. Katika maadhimisho hayo, Benki pia ilishiriki katika zoezi la usafi wa fukwe za bahari katika maeneo ya Kawe.

Tukio hilo lilifanyika tarehe 5 Septemba 2026, jijini Dar es Salaam, na kushuhudiwa na Meneja Mkuu wa Masoko na Mawasiliano wa Benki ya Exim Tanzania, Bi. Kauthar D'souza (kulia), Mkuu wa Kituo cha Polisi Kawe, ASP Ally Liviga (kushoto), pamoja na Afisa Usafishaji wa Manispaa ya Kinondoni, Bw. Alban Mugyabuso (wa pili kushoto).

DAR ES SALAAM, TANZANIA - Septemba 5, 2026: Benki ya Exim Tanzania inaadhimisha miaka 29 tangu kuanzishwa kwake chini ya kaulimbiu “Miaka 29 ya Ubora kwa Vitendo,” ikisherehekea karibu miongo mitatu ya ukuaji, uaminifu wa wateja, ushirikiano na mchango wake kwa jamii inazozihudumia.

Mwaka 1997, Benki ya Exim Tanzania ilianza safari yake ikiwa na idadi ndogo ya wateja na, hatua kwa hatua, ikajenga uwepo mkubwa katika soko la Tanzania. Kwa kipindi cha miaka 29, Benki hiyo imekua na kuwa miongoni mwa taasisi za kifedha zinazoongoza nchini, ikitambulika kwa ubunifu, suluhisho zinazomlenga mteja na mchango wake katika kuchochea ukuaji wa uchumi.

Kwa sasa, Benki ya Exim ina zaidi ya matawi 30 nchini Tanzania, pamoja na uwepo katika masoko ya nje ya Tanzania, ikiwemo Comoro, Djibouti, Uganda na Ethiopia.

Kama sehemu ya safari hiyo, Benki ya Exim ilikuwa benki ya kwanza Tanzania kufungua matawi nje ya nchi, hatua iliyoifanya kuwa miongoni mwa benki chache za Tanzania zilizofanikiwa kupanua shughuli zake katika masoko ya kimataifa.

VODACOM DIGITAL ACCELERATOR NA BRIDGE FOR BILLIONS WAINGIA UBIA KUIMARISHA MFUMO WA UJASIRIAMALI TANZANIA

Mkurugenzi wa Programu za Afrika wa Bridge for Billions, Liliosa Mbirimi (kulia), akizungumza wakati wa kutangazwa kwa ushirikiano wa miaka mitatu kati ya Vodacom Digital Accelerator (VDA) na Bridge for Billions, unaolenga kuimarisha mfumo wa ujasiriamali nchini kwa kuwafikia zaidi ya wajasiriamali na wabunifu 1,000 na kusaidia biashara zaidi ya 40 kukua na kupanuka.

Ushirikiano huo ulitangazwa wakati wa Wiki ya Ubunifu Tanzania (IWTz) 2026, Septemba 3, 2026, jijini Dar es Salaam. Kushoto ni Mkurugenzi wa Vodacom Business, Nguvu Kamando.

Mkurugenzi wa Vodacom Business, Nguvu Kamando, akizungumza wakati wa kutangazwa kwa ushirikiano mpya wa miaka mitatu kati ya Vodacom Digital Accelerator (VDA) na Bridge for Billions, unaolenga kuimarisha mfumo wa ujasiriamali nchini na kuwawezesha wajasiriamali na wabunifu kukua.

Ushirikiano huo ulitangazwa wakati wa Wiki ya Ubunifu Tanzania (IWTz) 2026, Septemba 3, 2026, jijini Dar es Salaam. Kulia ni Mkurugenzi wa Programu za Afrika wa Bridge for Billions, Liliosa Mbirimi.

Dar es Salaam, Septemba 4, 2026: Vodacom Tanzania Plc imeingia katika ubia wa miaka mitatu na Bridge for Billions, mtandao wa kimataifa wa ujasiriamali, kwa lengo la kupanua wigo na kuongeza matokeo ya mpango wa Vodacom Digital Accelerator (VDA) nchini Tanzania.

Kupitia ubia huo, taasisi hizo mbili zinalenga kujenga uwezo wa taasisi zinazosaidia wajasiriamali (Entrepreneurship Support Organizations – ESOs) kote nchini, hatua inayotarajiwa kuwawezesha kuwafikia zaidi ya wajasiriamali 1,000 na kusaidia biashara zaidi ya 40 kukua na kupanuka katika kipindi cha miaka mitatu.

KUWEKEZA KATIKA MFUMO WA UJASIRIAMALI

Ushirikiano huo unaashiria hatua mpya katika utekelezaji wa Vodacom Digital Accelerator, ambapo pamoja na kuendelea kusaidia biashara changa moja kwa moja, mpango huo sasa utawekeza pia katika kuimarisha taasisi na vituo vinavyowasaidia wajasiriamali.

Taasisi zitakazonufaika zitajumuisha vituo vya kulea na kukuza biashara changa, vituo vya ujasiriamali, vyuo vikuu pamoja na mashirika ya maendeleo ya biashara yanayowasaidia waanzilishi wa biashara.