AIRTEL AFRICA PROFIT MORE THAN DOUBLES IN NINE MONTHS ON STRONG OPERATING PERFORMANCE

Airtel Africa Chief Executive Officer Sunil Taldar.

Airtel Africa has delivered a standout financial performance for the nine-month period ended 31 December 2025, posting a profit after tax of USD 586 million, more than double the USD 248 million recorded in the previous comparable period. The strong results were driven by higher operating profits, improved foreign exchange dynamics, and disciplined execution of the Group’s growth strategy.

Revenue Growth Accelerates Across Markets

During the review period, Airtel Africa recorded revenues of USD 4.67 billion, representing growth of 24.6 per cent in constant currency and 28.3 per cent in reported currency. Currency appreciation further supported the Group’s strong underlying business fundamentals.

Revenue momentum accelerated in the third quarter of the 2026 financial year, with constant currency revenue growth reaching 24.7 per cent, translating into 32.9 per cent growth in reported currency terms.

Mobile services revenue rose 23.3 per cent in constant currency, underpinned by robust demand for data and voice services. Data revenues, the largest contributor to Group revenue, grew by 36.5 per cent, while voice revenues increased by 13.5 per cent.

Mobile Money Remains a Key Growth Engine

Airtel Africa’s mobile money business continued to deliver strong performance, with revenues growing 29.4 per cent in constant currency. Airtel Money achieved two major milestones during the period, reflecting accelerating digital adoption across its markets.

The mobile money subscriber base expanded by 17.3 per cent to 52.0 million, while annualised total processed value (TPV) for Q3 2026 exceeded USD 210 billion, representing 36 per cent growth. A broader ecosystem and increased digital usage also drove a 9.8 per cent rise in ARPU in constant currency.

MAGARI YA HUDUMA YA NMB "BANK ON WHEELS" YAFIKIA 15 KUCHOCHEA UJUMUISHAJI WA KIFEDHA

Msajili wa Hazina, Nehemiah Mchechu (wa pili kulia), akikata utepe kuashiria uzinduzi wa magari manane ya “Bank on Wheels” — matawi ya benki yanayotembea yatakayotoa huduma za kibenki mitaani, vijijini na katika minada — ikiwa ni sehemu ya dhamira ya Benki ya NMB ya kuwafikia Watanzania mahali walipo. Uzinduzi huo ulifanyika jijini Dar es Salaam. Wa tatu kutoka kulia ni Mkurugenzi Mtendaji na Afisa Mtendaji Mkuu wa Benki ya NMB, Ruth Zaipuna; kulia ni Mjumbe wa Bodi ya Wakurugenzi wa Benki ya NMB, Benson Mahenya; wa nne kutoka kulia ni Mjumbe wa Bodi ya Wakurugenzi wa Benki ya NMB, Prof. Sylvia Temu; na kushoto ni Afisa Mkuu wa Fedha wa NMB, Juma Kimori.

Msajili wa Hazina, Nehemiah Mchechu (kulia), na Mkurugenzi Mtendaji na Afisa Mtendaji Mkuu wa Benki ya NMB, Ruth Zaipuna (wa pili kulia), wakitoka katika hafla ya uzinduzi wa magari manane ya “Bank on Wheels” — matawi ya benki yanayotembea yatakayotoa huduma za kibenki mitaani, vijijini na katika minada — ikiwa ni sehemu ya dhamira ya benki hiyo ya kuwafikia Watanzania mahali walipo. Kushoto ni Afisa Mkuu wa Fedha wa NMB, Juma Kimori, na wa pili kushoto ni Mjumbe wa Bodi ya Wakurugenzi wa Benki ya NMB, Prof. Sylvia Temu.

Benki ya NMB imeendelea kuimarisha juhudi zake za ujumuishaji wa kifedha nchini baada ya idadi ya magari yake yanayotoa huduma za kifedha—maarufu kama Bank on Wheels—kufikia jumla ya magari 15.

Ongezeko hilo limetokana na uzinduzi rasmi wa magari mapya nane, yaliyobuniwa kama matawi yanayotembea ili kuhakikisha huduma za benki zinawafikia wananchi moja kwa moja, hususan katika maeneo yenye changamoto ya upatikanaji wa matawi ya kawaida kama vijijini, masokoni, minada ya mifugo na vituo vya biashara vya mbali.

Magari haya hayatoi tu huduma za kifedha, bali pia hutoa elimu ya kifedha, ufunguaji wa akaunti, huduma za mikopo, malipo ya kidijitali pamoja na ushauri wa kibiashara, kwa urahisi na ukaribu zaidi kwa wananchi.

Uzinduzi wa Bank on Wheels unaonesha dhamira ya NMB katika kuimarisha ujumuishaji wa kifedha na kutekeleza mkakati wake wa kupeleka huduma za benki karibu zaidi na wananchi, kwa kutumia teknolojia na mbinu bunifu ili kuchochea maendeleo ya kiuchumi, hususan vijijini na katika jamii zisizo rasmi.

Hatua hiyo ilikuwa sehemu ya uzinduzi wa Ajenda 2030, Mpango Mkakati wa Kati wa NMB kwa kipindi cha 2026–2030, unaolenga, pamoja na mambo mengine, kupanua ujumuishaji wa kifedha na kuharakisha maendeleo ya kijamii na kiuchumi nchini.

Zoezi hilo lilisimamiwa na Msajili wa Hazina, Bw. Nehemiah Mchechu, aliyeipongeza NMB kwa mchango wake katika ujenzi wa taifa na kuboresha maisha ya Watanzania kupitia suluhisho bunifu na jumuishi za kifedha.

Akizungumza kabla ya uzinduzi huo, Mkurugenzi Mtendaji na Afisa Mtendaji Mkuu wa NMB, Bi. Ruth Zaipuna, alisema kuwa magari hayo yamebuniwa mahsusi ili kutoa huduma rasmi za kifedha moja kwa moja kwa jamii zisizo na matawi ya benki, ikiwemo vijiji vya mbali, masoko na maeneo ya biashara kama minada.

“Haya siyo magari tu, ni milango ya fursa. Yanawawezesha wakulima, wafanyabiashara wadogo, wafugaji na wajasiriamali kupata huduma za akiba, mikopo, malipo na ushauri wa kifedha bila usumbufu wa kusafiri umbali mrefu au gharama kubwa,” alisema Bi. Zaipuna.

NMB ROLLS OUT INCLUSIVE FINANCE INITIATIVE WITH EXPANDED "BANK ON WHEELS" FLEET

Treasury Registrar, Nehemiah Mchechu (second right) cuts the ribbon to officially launch eight "Bank on Wheels" mobile branches that will take banking services to streets, rural areas and livestock auction centres, as part of NMB Bank’s drive to reach every Tanzanian wherever they are. The launch was held in Dar es Salaam. Third right is NMB Bank Managing Director and CEO, Ms Ruth Zaipuna, with NMB Ag. Board Chair, Benson Mahenya (right), NMB Board Director, Prof. Sylvia Temu (fourth right) and NMB Chief Financial Officer, Juma Kimori (left).

Treasury Registrar, Nehemiah Mchechu (right) and NMB Bank Managing Director and CEO, Ms Ruth Zaipuna (second right) pose for a photo after launching eight "Bank on Wheels" mobile branches that will deliver banking services to streets, rural areas and livestock auction centres, as part of the bank’s commitment to reach every Tanzanian wherever they are. Left is NMB Chief Financial Officer, Juma Kimori, while second left is NMB Board Director, Prof. Sylvia Temu.

Dar es Salaam – NMB Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to financial inclusion by taking banking services directly to underserved communities, unveiling eight additional Bank on Wheels mobile branches as part of its Agenda 2030 Medium-Term Strategic Plan (MTP) for 2026–2030.

With the latest rollout, NMB now operates 15 mobile branches, a move that significantly strengthens the bank’s Village Banking Strategy aimed at closing the financial access gap in rural and peri-urban Tanzania.

Speaking ahead of the official flag-off ceremony led by Treasury Registrar Mr Nehemiah Mchechu, NMB Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Ms Ruth Zaipuna said the expanded fleet marks a major acceleration in efforts to bring formal banking services closer to ordinary Tanzanians.

She noted that the mobile branches are designed to serve more than 1,000 previously unbanked villages, many of which have remained outside the reach of conventional banking infrastructure for decades.

“These mobile branches are a powerful extension of our Village Banking Agenda. They are not just vehicles; they are gateways to opportunity,” Ms Zaipuna said.
“They enable farmers, small traders, pastoralists and micro-entrepreneurs to access savings, credit, payments and advisory services without the burden of long travel distances or high transaction costs.”

 

The Bank on Wheels trucks effectively transform open spaces into pop-up bank branches, bringing financial services directly to village centres, markets and remote trading hubs where economic activity is vibrant but access to finance has historically lagged behind.

For rural communities, the initiative translates into fewer lost trading days, reduced costs and lower dependence on informal and risky cash-based systems.

ABSA BANK LAUNCHES AFMI INDEX 2025, HIGHLIGHTING TANZANIA’S PROGRESS AND REFORM PRIORITIES

The Bank of Tanzania Director of Financial Markets, Mr. Emmanuel Akaro (third left), and Absa Bank Tanzania Managing Director, Mr. Obedi Laiser (third right), together with senior Absa officials, display the newly launched Absa Africa Financial Markets Index 2025 in Dar es Salaam. From left: Absa Group Chief Economist, Mr. Geff Gable; Absa Bank Tanzania Acting Board Chairperson, Ms. Lulu Ng’wanakilala; Absa Bank Tanzania Director of Financial Markets, Ms. Irene Rwegalulira; and Absa Africa Regional Head of Global Markets Operations, Mr. Anthony Kivui.

Dar es Salaam, Thursday 29 January 2026 – Absa Bank Tanzania has officially launched the Absa Africa Financial Markets Index (AFMI) 2025 in Tanzania, hosting a high-level corporate breakfast at the Rotana Hotel that brought together senior policymakers, regulators, financial sector leaders, and corporate executives.

The event provided a platform to reflect on the state of Africa’s financial markets and assess Tanzania’s performance within the continental financial landscape, as outlined in the latest Index.

High-Level Participation from Government and Industry

The launch was officiated by the Guest of Honour, Mr. Emmanuel Akaro, Director of Financial Markets at the Bank of Tanzania, representing the Governor, Hon. Emmanuel Tutuba.

The gathering attracted senior officials from the Bank of Tanzania, Capital Markets and Securities Authority (CMSA), Ministry of Finance, and the Dar es Salaam Stock Exchange (DSE), alongside leaders from the public and private sectors, members of Absa Bank Tanzania’s Board and senior management, and representatives from the media.

AFMI: A Key Benchmark for Africa’s Financial Markets

Now in its ninth year, the Absa Africa Financial Markets Index serves as a comprehensive benchmark of financial market development across 29 African economies, covering approximately 80 percent of Africa’s population and GDP.

NMB YAZINDUA AGENDA 2030, YAFUNGA MTP 2025 KWA FAIDA YA KIHISTORIA YA SH. TRILIONI 1.1

Msajili wa Hazina, Nehemiah Mchechu (katikati), pamoja na Mkurugenzi Mtendaji na Afisa Mtendaji Mkuu wa Benki ya NMB, Ruth Zaipuna (wa pili kulia), na Mjumbe wa Bodi ya Wakurugenzi wa Benki ya NMB, Benson Mahenya (wa pili kushoto), wakizindua kwa pamoja Mpango Mkakati wa Muda wa Kati wa kuanzia mwaka 2026 hadi 2030, unaojulikana kama Agenda 2030, wa Benki ya NMB. Hafla hiyo ilifanyika jijini Dar es Salaam. Kushoto ni Mjumbe wa Bodi ya Wakurugenzi wa Benki ya NMB, Prof. Sylvia Temu, na kulia ni Afisa Mkuu wa Fedha wa NMB, Juma Kimori.

Dar es Salaam — Benki ya NMB imezindua rasmi Mpango Mkakati wa Muda wa Kati wa miaka mitano kuanzia 2026 hadi 2030, unaojulikana kama Agenda 2030, sambamba na kutangaza mafanikio makubwa ya Mpango Mkakati uliopita (MTP 2025), uliomalizika kwa rekodi ya kihistoria ya faida kabla ya kodi (PBT) ya Sh. Trilioni 1.1 kwa mwaka wa fedha ulioishia Desemba 31, 2025.

Akizungumza wakati wa hafla ya uzinduzi wa Agenda 2030, Afisa Mtendaji Mkuu wa NMB, Bi. Ruth Zaipuna, alisema benki hiyo inajivunia mafanikio yaliyopatikana katika kipindi cha utekelezaji wa MTP 2025, uliodumu kwa miaka mitano, ambapo ilivuna faida ya jumla ya Sh. Trilioni 1.1, sawa na ongezeko la asilimia 15.

Kwa mujibu wa Bi. Zaipuna, katika mwaka 2025 pekee, NMB ilirekodi Faida Baada ya Kodi (PAT) ya Sh. Bilioni 750, ikiwa ni ongezeko la asilimia 16, huku mapato yote ya benki yakifikia Sh. Trilioni 1.82 (ongezeko la asilimia 11). Aidha, mali zote za benki zilifikia thamani ya Sh. Trilioni 17.2.

“Katika kipindi chote cha utekelezaji wa MTP 2025, NMB imepata matokeo madhubuti yaliyojumuisha utendaji imara wa kifedha na mchango mpana katika kuchochea na kuwezesha shughuli za kiuchumi nchini,” alisema Bi. Zaipuna.

Aliongeza kuwa katika kipindi hicho cha miaka mitano, benki ilizalisha faida ya jumla ya Sh. Trilioni 2.7, ikitoa mikopo yenye thamani ya zaidi ya Sh. Trilioni 27.6, huku amana za wateja zikifikia Sh. Trilioni 12.4. Idadi ya akaunti za wateja pia iliongezeka hadi kufikia milioni 9.9.

Bi. Zaipuna alisema mafanikio hayo yanaipa NMB msingi imara wa kuingia katika Awamu mpya ya kimkakati ya Agenda 2030, ambayo inalenga kujenga benki yenye ukuaji endelevu unaoakisi mahitaji ya soko ya sasa na ya baadaye.

“Mpango Mkakati huu mpya umejengwa juu ya mafanikio yaliyopatikana, na unaweka dira ya ukuaji endelevu unaoongozwa na Mteja, Teknolojia na Tija ya Kiutendaji,” alisema.

Katika Agenda 2030, NMB itaweka mkazo katika kuboresha kwa kiwango cha juu huduma kwa wateja, kuimarisha mabadiliko ya kidijitali na matumizi ya kimkakati ya takwimu (data), pamoja na kufadhili sekta za kimkakati zinazochochea ajira, uzalishaji na ongezeko la thamani katika uchumi. Sekta hizo ni pamoja na kilimo, ujenzi, viwanda, utalii, nishati na madini.

NMB SHATTERS NATIONAL CORPORATE PROFITABILITY RECORDS WITH TZS 1.1 TRN PRE-TAX PROFIT

Registrar of the Treasury, Mr Nehemiah Mchechu (centre), together with NMB Bank Plc Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Ms Ruth Zaipuna (second right), and NMB Bank Board Director, Mr Benson Mahenya (second left), jointly launch NMB Bank’s Medium-Term Strategic Plan for 2026–2030, dubbed Agenda 2030, at an event held in Dar es Salaam. Also present are NMB Bank Board Director, Prof. Sylvia Temu (left), and NMB Chief Financial Officer, Mr Juma Kimori (right).

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania — NMB Bank Plc has etched its name into Tanzania’s corporate history after recording an unprecedented TZS 1.1 trillion profit before tax (PBT) in 2025, becoming the first company in the country to cross the trillion-shilling profit threshold.

The landmark achievement was unveiled in Dar es Salaam during the launch of the Bank’s new Medium-Term Plan (MTP) 2026–2030, dubbed Agenda 2030, marking the successful conclusion of a transformative five-year strategy that repositioned NMB as a performance-driven, purpose-led financial powerhouse.

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A Milestone Built on Strategy and Discipline

Speaking at the launch, NMB Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Ms Ruth Zaipuna, underscored that the record-breaking performance was the result of deliberate and disciplined execution.

“This performance reflects years of deliberate choices — expanding sustainable revenue streams, investing in technology and people, and growing responsibly,” she said.

 

NMB’s journey to the historic milestone began in 2020 with the development and approval of the 2021–2025 MTP, anchored on three strategic pillars: winning customer propositions, operational efficiency, and innovation, supported by strong governance, people development, and enhanced customer experience.

Over the five-year period, the Bank generated cumulative profits of TZS 2.7 trillion, cementing its position as a dominant force in Tanzania’s financial and corporate landscape. Total assets surged by 142 percent to TZS 17.2 trillion, while customer deposits more than doubled to TZS 12.4 trillion.

Operational efficiency also improved markedly, with the cost-to-income ratio falling to 37 percent, placing NMB among the most efficient banks in Africa.

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Driving Financial Inclusion and National Development

Beyond profitability, NMB significantly deepened financial inclusion across the country. Its agent network expanded from 8,400 to over 73,000, while the customer base grew to nearly 10 million accounts, the largest in Tanzania.

During the five-year period, the Bank disbursed close to TZS 28 trillion in loans, averaging TZS 5.5 trillion annually, supporting households, SMEs, farmers, and corporates across critical sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, trade, infrastructure, and services.

NMB’s contribution to national development was equally significant. Over the period, the Bank:

• Paid TZS 2.7 trillion in taxes
• Distributed TZS 700 billion in dividends, including TZS 224 billion to the Government
• Pioneered capital-market instruments such as the Jasiri Bond, NMB Jamii Bond, and NMB Social Bond, mobilising funds for social, gender, and development-focused initiatives

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Government Applause for a National Champion

Officiating the Agenda 2030 launch, Treasury Registrar Mr Nehemiah Mchechu praised NMB as a model of local enterprise capability and a pillar of Tanzania’s economic transformation.

“The Sixth Phase Government, under the visionary leadership of President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, recognizes and applauds NMB for its frontline role in national development,” he said.

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Digital Transformation and Efficiency Gains

Heavy investment in technology — exceeding TZS 230 billion — alongside the recruitment of more than 80 specialists in technology, data, and cybersecurity, has fundamentally transformed NMB’s operations.

According to Ms Zaipuna, over 94 percent of all transactions are now conducted digitally, significantly improving efficiency while reducing operational risk.

BANKS, VODACOM DRIVE DAR ES SALAAM STOCK EXCHANGE AS CRDB DOMINATES TURNOVER

— By Henry Lyimo, Daily News

Dar es Salaam — Equities on the Dar es Salaam Stock Exchange (DSE) closed higher on Friday, buoyed by strong activity in heavyweight banking stocks and Vodacom Tanzania, with CRDB Bank dominating market turnover amid broad-based gains across select counters.

CRDB Bank led trading by a wide margin, with nearly 3.8 million shares exchanging hands for a turnover of about Sh7.97 billion, accounting for more than three-quarters of total market value traded. The lender’s performance underscored sustained investor appetite for highly liquid banking stocks.

Vodacom Tanzania followed, posting a turnover of approximately Sh2.23 billion from 183,293 shares. NMB Bank and Tanzania Breweries Limited (TBL) also ranked among the most actively traded counters, reinforcing the dominance of blue-chip stocks in driving market liquidity.

Overall market turnover stood at about Sh9.85 billion, with 5.56 million shares traded across 6,551 deals, signalling robust investor participation compared with recent sessions.

STANBIC BANK SUPPORTS HOUSING FINANCE THROUGH CAPITAL MARKETS LEADERSHIP

Stanbic Bank Tanzania Chief Executive, Mr. Manzi Rwegasira.

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – Stanbic Bank Tanzania has reaffirmed the critical role of capital markets in advancing Tanzania’s long-term development, following its participation as Lead Arranger in the Makazi Bond issued by First Housing Finance Tanzania (FHF).

The Makazi Bond marks a significant milestone in mobilising domestic capital to support housing finance, a sector that underpins economic productivity, employment creation, and social wellbeing.

Strengthening Housing Finance Through Capital Markets

First Housing Finance Tanzania (FHF) is the country’s pioneering and leading dedicated non-bank mortgage lender, recognised for its market expertise and strong commitment to expanding homeownership opportunities across the country. As of 31 March 2025, FHF held 5.3% of Tanzania’s mortgage market share, having advanced TZS 36 billion in mortgage financing to hundreds of Tanzanians.

The Makazi Bond represents a strategic move to channel long-term funding into housing finance. Its first tranche of TZS 5 billion, with a greenshoe option of up to TZS 3 billion, highlights growing investor confidence in well-structured instruments that balance financial returns with developmental impact.

Leadership Insights

Speaking at the bond’s launch, Stanbic Bank Tanzania Chief Executive, Mr. Manzi Rwegasira, emphasised the importance of using capital markets intentionally to support national priorities.

“Housing is more than shelter. It is a foundation for stable households, stronger communities, and sustainable economic growth. By structuring credible and investable instruments, capital markets can play a meaningful role in addressing real needs within the economy,” he said.

RAIS SAMIA APONGEZA JUHUDI ZA KAMPUNI YA BIA YA SERENGETI KATIKA UTUNZAJI WA MAZINGIRA

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – Rais wa Jamhuri ya Muungano wa Tanzania, Mheshimiwa Dkt. Samia Suluhu Hassan, ameipongeza na kuipatia tuzo Kampuni ya Bia ya Serengeti (Serengeti Breweries Limited – SBL) kwa mchango wake mkubwa katika uhifadhi wa mazingira na kuunga mkono maendeleo endelevu ya taifa.

Tuzo hiyo ya kihistoria ya Pongezi, ambayo ni ya kwanza kutolewa kwa SBL na Kiongozi Mkuu wa Nchi, inaakisi dhamira thabiti ya kampuni hiyo katika kutekeleza mikakati ya Mazingira, Jamii na Utawala Bora (ESG), sambamba na ajenda ya Taifa ya maendeleo endelevu.

Kupitia programu na miradi yake mbalimbali ya kijamii na kimazingira, SBL imeendelea kutoa mchango chanya kwa jamii na mazingira. Hadi sasa, kampuni hiyo imefanikiwa:

• Kupanda miti zaidi ya 10,000 katika Kanda ya Kaskazini na Kanda ya Kati
• Kutekeleza miradi ya maji safi na salama zaidi ya 28 kwa jamii zinazozunguka maeneo yake ya uzalishaji
• Kuwekeza katika kilimo endelevu kwa kuwaunga mkono vijana zaidi ya 300 kupitia mpango wa Kilimo Viwanda

Aidha, SBL imeanzisha mpango wa “Shamba ni Mali”, unaolenga kuwawezesha wakulima kwa kuwapatia mbolea, mbegu bora, teknolojia ya kisasa pamoja na elimu ya kilimo. Kupitia mpango huo, kampuni inalenga kuwafikia wakulima zaidi ya 4,000 ifikapo mwaka 2030, ikiwa ni sehemu ya juhudi za kuimarisha uzalishaji wa kilimo na ustawi wa wakulima nchini.

Utambuzi huu kutoka kwa Rais Samia Suluhu Hassan unaonesha nafasi ya SBL kama mdau muhimu katika uhifadhi wa mazingira, maendeleo ya jamii na uendelevu wa kiuchumi, huku ikiendelea kushirikiana na Serikali pamoja na wadau wengine katika kulijenga taifa lenye ustawi wa muda mrefu.

NMB YAWEKA HISTORIA KWA KUWA BENKI YA KWANZA TANZANIA KUZINDUA "NMB TAP WEARABLES"

Dar es Salaam — Benki ya NMB imeandika historia mpya katika sekta ya huduma za kifedha nchini Tanzania baada ya kuwa benki ya kwanza kuzindua teknolojia ya kisasa ya malipo ijulikanayo kama "NMB TAP Wearables".

Huduma hii bunifu inamwezesha mteja kufanya malipo kwa urahisi, haraka na usalama wa hali ya juu kupitia vifaa vinavyovaliwa (wearables) ikiwemo pete, bangili na stika maalum, bila hitaji la kubeba pesa taslimu au kadi.

Uzinduzi Wafanyika Dar es Salaam

Uzinduzi wa NMB TAP Wearables umefanyika jijini Dar es Salaam, ukihudhuriwa na wadau mbalimbali wa sekta ya fedha na teknolojia, akiwemo Meneja Biashara wa Mastercard Tanzania, Moses Alphonce, aliyeipongeza NMB kwa kuendelea kuongoza katika bunifu za huduma za kifedha nchini.

Akizungumza katika hafla hiyo, Mkurugenzi wa Uhusiano wa Wawekezaji, Uendelevu na Mawasiliano wa NMB, Innocent Yonazi, alieleza kuwa NMB TAP ni taswira halisi ya mustakabali wa huduma za kibenki nchini Tanzania.

“NMB TAP ni ‘future of banking in Tanzania’. Kwa muda mrefu tumekuwa tukitegemea pesa taslimu na kadi, lakini sasa tunaelekea katika suluhisho za kisasa zinazoendana na kasi ya maisha ya kidijitali,” alisema Yonazi.

Aliongeza kuwa lengo la NMB ni kumweka mteja katikati ya ubunifu, kwa kutoa huduma zilizo rahisi kutumia, salama na zenye kuokoa muda, huku zikiondoa usumbufu wa kubeba pochi, mikoba au ‘wallet’.

Mapinduzi ya Malipo ya Kidijitali

Yonazi alisisitiza kuwa kupitia ushirikiano wa kimkakati kati ya NMB na Mastercard, benki hiyo imelenga kuleta mapinduzi makubwa katika mifumo ya malipo nchini, kwa kumpa mteja huduma ambayo haijawahi kuwepo hapo awali.

“Kupitia NMB TAP, tunamuwezesha mteja kufanya malipo kwa haraka na usalama wa hali ya juu, bila kuwa mtumwa wa mifumo ya kizamani ya kibenki,” aliongeza.

VODACOM EMPOWERS YOUNG WOMEN THROUGH ‘CODE LIKE A GIRL’ DIGITAL SKILLS PROGRAMME

Vodacom Tanzania Plc Learning and Youth Specialist, Samwel Komba (second left), presents a certificate to Anneth Sianga, a graduate of the Code Like a Girl programme, during a graduation ceremony held in Dar es Salaam on Friday. The programme, implemented by Vodacom Tanzania in partnership with dLab, equips female students with digital and coding skills to enhance their participation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields. Also present are Dr. Mahadia Tunga, Executive Director of dLab (left), and Beatrice Crispin, a beneficiary of the Code Like a Girl programme (right).

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania — Vodacom Tanzania Plc continues to strengthen its commitment to youth empowerment and digital inclusion through the Code Like a Girl programme, an initiative aimed at equipping young women with essential digital and coding skills to enhance their participation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields.

The graduation ceremony, held in Dar es Salaam on Friday, marked an important milestone for female students who successfully completed the programme.

Implemented by Vodacom Tanzania in partnership with dLab, Code Like a Girl is designed to bridge the digital skills gap among young women by providing practical training in coding, digital literacy, and emerging technologies. The initiative aligns with national and global efforts to promote gender equality and inclusion in the technology sector, where women remain underrepresented.

Speaking at the ceremony, representatives from both organisations highlighted the importance of empowering young women with future-ready skills, noting that digital competencies are increasingly critical for employability, entrepreneurship, and innovation in today’s economy.

BENKI YA EQUITY YAUNGA MKONO USAFI WA SOKO LA SAMAKI MWALONI NA UFUKWE WA ZIWA VICTORIA

Shughuli zinalenga kuimarisha usafi wa mazingira na kukuza Uchumi wa Buluu katika ukanda wa Ziwa Victoria

Mwanza, Tanzania – 24 Januari 2026

Benki ya Equity Tanzania, kwa kushirikiana na wadau mbalimbali wa mazingira, imefanikisha utekelezaji wa shughuli za kijamii na kimazingira katika ukanda wa Ziwa Victoria jijini Mwanza, ikiwa ni sehemu ya jitihada zake za kuunga mkono usimamizi endelevu wa mazingira na kukuza Uchumi wa Buluu.

Shughuli hizo zilihusisha makabidhiano rasmi ya vifaa vipya vya kuhifadhi taka ngumu katika Soko la Samaki la Mwaloni, pamoja na zoezi la usafi wa ufukwe wa Ziwa Victoria. Makabidhiano ya vifaa hivyo yaliongozwa na Mkuu wa Wilaya ya Ilemela, Mhe. Amir Mohammed Mkalipa, akishirikiana na viongozi wengine kutoka Wilaya za Ilemela na Nyamagana pamoja na uongozi wa Soko la Samaki Mwaloni.

Katika zoezi la usafi wa ufukwe wa ziwa, Benki ya Equity Tanzania ilishirikiana na taasisi ya HUDEFO, vijana takribani 70 wa kujitolea kutoka vyuo vya SAUT na TIA, wadau wengine wa mazingira, pamoja na wafanyakazi wa Benki ya Equity. Ushiriki huu wa pamoja unaakisi dhamira ya benki katika kuhamasisha ushirikiano wa jamii katika kulinda mazingira na rasilimali za maji.

Makabidhiano ya vifaa vya kuhifadhi taka ngumu yanalenga kuboresha hali ya usafi na usalama wa kiafya katika Soko la Samaki Mwaloni, kupunguza uchafuzi wa mazingira, na kuchangia ustawi wa kiuchumi na kiafya kwa wafanyabiashara na wadau wote wa soko hilo. Aidha, zoezi la usafi wa ufukwe wa Ziwa Victoria lililenga kuondoa taka ngumu na plastiki, kuzuia uchafuzi wa maji ya ziwa, pamoja na kutoa elimu na mafunzo kuhusu usimamizi endelevu wa taka na fursa zinazotokana na Uchumi wa Buluu.

Akizungumza wakati wa tukio hilo, Bi. Hellen Dalali, Mkuu wa Kitengo cha Uendelevu wa Benki ya Equity Tanzania, alisema benki inaamini kwa dhati katika uwezeshaji wa jamii na ulinzi wa mazingira. Alisisitiza kuwa shughuli hizo hazikulenga tu usafi wa mazingira na makabidhiano ya vifaa, bali pia zilikuwa jukwaa la kujenga uelewa kuhusu umuhimu wa kutunza vyanzo vya maji na kukuza Uchumi wa Buluu kwa kushirikisha wajasiriamali na vikundi vya kijamii.

CRDB BANK OPENS DUBAI OFFICE TO CHANNEL GLOBAL CAPITAL INTO EAST AND CENTRAL AFRICA’S ECONOMY

Participants at the launch ceremony of the CRDB Bank Dubai Representative Office watch a drone show displaying the Bank’s logo in the United Arab Emirates, held at the InterContinental Hotel, Dubai.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo (second left), accompanied by the Zanzibar Minister of Finance and Planning, Dr. Juma Malik Akil (first right), the Chairperson of the CRDB Bank Board of Directors, Prof. Neema Mori (left), and the Group CEO of CRDB Bank, Abdulmajid Nsekela (second right), upon their arrival at the official launch ceremony of the CRDB Bank Dubai Representative Office, held at the InterContinental Hotel, Dubai.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo (centre), together with the Chairperson of the CRDB Bank Board of Directors, Prof. Neema Mori, and the Group CEO of CRDB Bank, Abdulmajid Nsekela, jointly officiate the official launch of the CRDB Bank Dubai Representative Office.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo (centre), and the Group CEO of CRDB Bank, Abdulmajid Nsekela, greeting investors and heads of institutions from Dubai and the United Arab Emirates during the official launch ceremony of the CRDB Bank Dubai Representative Office, held at the InterContinental Hotel, Dubai.

Dubai, UAE | 22 January 2026

Africa–UAE economic relations reached a defining milestone with the official launch of the CRDB Bank Dubai Representative Office at the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)—marking the first time a Tanzanian bank has established a presence in one of the world’s most influential global financial hubs.

The development positions Tanzania, alongside the wider East and Central Africa region—an economy approaching USD 800 billion—directly within the global capital ecosystem, using a home-grown African financial institution as a bridge between regional opportunity and international finance.

Strengthening Africa–UAE Financial Ties

The launch ceremony, held at the InterContinental Dubai Festival City, brought together senior leaders from international financial institutions, global investors, multinational corporates, and development finance partners. The strong turnout reflected rising global interest in Africa as the world’s next major growth frontier.

The event was officiated by Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, who delivered the keynote address on behalf of H.E. Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania.

Speaking for the President, Minister Kombo commended CRDB Bank for advancing Tanzania’s national economic vision through a strong domestic institution capable of operating at global standards. He described Dubai as a strategic choice, citing its position as a global capital hub and the robust regulatory environment of DIFC.

“The presence of a Tanzanian bank in Dubai will deepen economic, trade and investment relations between the United Republic of Tanzania and the United Arab Emirates, building on bilateral trade that has already reached approximately USD 2.5 billion annually, while also strengthening East and Central Africa’s linkages with global markets,” said Minister Kombo.

A Signal of Financial Sector Maturity

Also addressing the event, Dr. Juma Malik Akil, Minister of Finance of the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar, said the expansion reflects the growing maturity and sophistication of Tanzania’s financial sector.

“This milestone reflects the ability of our domestic financial institutions to operate confidently within global financial markets,” he said.

Tanzania, with a population exceeding 60 million, has sustained average GDP growth of 6–7 percent for more than two decades, maintained single-digit inflation, and preserved macroeconomic stability—even during periods of global economic disruption. This resilience has positioned the country as a natural gateway economy, linking the Indian Ocean with landlocked markets across East and Central Africa.

CRDB Bank’s Regional Growth Strategy

Founded over 30 years ago, CRDB Bank has grown alongside Tanzania’s economic transformation and regional integration agenda. Today, the Group serves more than six million customers, with a balance sheet exceeding USD 9 billion, and operations spanning Tanzania, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo—covering key trade, logistics, and investment corridors.

Speaking at the launch, Abdulmajid Nsekela, Group CEO of CRDB Bank, described the Dubai expansion as a natural progression in the Bank’s regional strategy.

“CRDB Bank was built to finance Tanzania’s growth. As Tanzania became a gateway, the Bank became regional. Dubai now allows us to complete the triangle—linking global capital, Tanzania, and East and Central Africa through one trusted African institution,” he said.

NMB BANK BECOMES THE FIRST IN TANZANIA TO LAUNCH WEARABLE PAYMENTS

Dar es Salaam — NMB Bank Plc has set a new benchmark in Tanzania’s digital finance landscape with the launch of NMB-Tap Wearables, the country’s first tokenised wearable payment solution.

The innovation marks a significant milestone in the modernisation of Tanzania’s national payment ecosystem and reinforces NMB Bank’s role as a key driver of secure, convenient and inclusive cashless payment solutions, in line with the government’s digital transformation agenda.

Speaking during the official launch held in Dar es Salaam, NMB’s Chief of Retail Banking, Mr Filbert Mponzi, described the introduction of NMB-Tap Wearables as a landmark moment in the country’s transition towards a digitally enabled economy.

He said the solution further strengthens NMB Bank’s position as a pioneer in cashless innovation and a national leader in delivering world-class financial services, while expanding access to modern payment tools across diverse customer segments.

According to Mr Mponzi, NMB-Tap Wearables form part of the bank’s broader strategic agenda to revolutionise retail payments in Tanzania by combining cutting-edge technology with customer-centric design—ultimately supporting financial inclusion and accelerating the growth of the digital economy.

“This is a world-class innovation and a clear affirmation of our leadership in setting banking standards in the country. It reflects NMB Bank’s preparedness to continuously innovate and transform financial services, ensuring our customers benefit from secure, modern and globally competitive solutions,” Mr Mponzi said.

 

Powered by Mastercard Technology

Unveiled in partnership with global payments leader Mastercard, NMB-Tap enables customers to make fast, secure and cash-free payments using everyday wearable items such as rings, bracelets and payment stickers.

With a simple tap, users can transact seamlessly at supermarkets, fuel stations, hotels, restaurants and all Mastercard contactless-enabled point-of-sale terminals nationwide.

The solution is designed for tech-savvy customers as well as individuals seeking greater convenience, eliminating the need to carry cash, wallets or even mobile phones.

Enhanced Security Through Tokenisation

Commenting on the technical and security features, Mr Mponzi explained that NMB-Tap Wearables are securely linked to customers’ existing debit or credit cards through tokenisation technology. This ensures sensitive card details are neither stored on the wearable device nor exposed during transactions—significantly enhancing payment security.

“NMB-Tap is about empowering Tanzanians with smarter, safer and more convenient ways to transact that align perfectly with modern lifestyles. As pioneers of wearable payments in Tanzania, we are removing barriers to digital adoption while delivering unmatched speed, simplicity and security,” he added.

KILIMO VIWANDA: HOW EDUCATION IS TRANSFORMING AGRICULTURE IN TANZANIA

As the world marks International Day of Education, attention turns to the critical role education plays in shaping Tanzania’s economic future. Agriculture remains the backbone of the national economy, employing a significant share of the population and supporting food security and industrial development. However, the sector continues to face persistent challenges, including limited access to agricultural education for youth from low-income backgrounds and a shortage of qualified professionals to support farmers, particularly in rural areas.

Bridging the Skills and Access Gap

These challenges inspired the launch of the Kilimo Viwanda Programme in 2020. The initiative brings together four agricultural training institutions and Serengeti Breweries Limited (SBL) in a strategic partnership aimed at expanding access to agricultural education. Through scholarships and institutional support, the programme enables young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue diploma-level training in agriculture.

To date, Kilimo Viwanda has supported the education of more than 300 students over a five-year period—students who might otherwise have been forced to abandon their studies due to financial constraints.

Strengthening Institutions and Retaining Talent

The collaboration between SBL and the four agricultural colleges was designed to address structural challenges within the education system. Many institutions were struggling with high dropout rates as students failed to meet tuition requirements. This not only disrupted learning but also reduced the supply of trained agricultural extension officers essential for improving farm productivity.

By easing financial pressure on students, the programme has helped improve retention rates, strengthen institutional capacity, and ensure that agricultural training is closely aligned with the practical needs of farmers and agribusinesses.

STANBIC BANK SUPPORTS CRDB BANK AL BARAKAH SUKUK ISSUANCE AS CO-LEAD ARRANGER

• Stanbic Bank reinforces its capital markets expertise as Co-Lead Arranger for CRDB Bank’s Al Barakah Sukuk
• The transaction highlights strong structuring capability supporting Tanzania’s growing capital markets ecosystem
• Stanbic demonstrates proven experience in complex instruments and partnerships with major national issuers

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – Friday, 23 January 2026:
Stanbic Bank Tanzania has reaffirmed its growing influence in the country’s capital markets after successfully supporting CRDB Bank’s latest Al Barakah Sukuk issuance as Co-Lead Arranger. The transaction further strengthens Tanzania’s Islamic finance and structured products landscape while underscoring Stanbic’s deep expertise in debt capital markets.

The Al Barakah Sukuk represents the third tranche that Stanbic has arranged for CRDB Bank, reflecting a long-standing partnership built on technical depth, disciplined structuring, and strong investor engagement. Through this issuance, CRDB Bank continues to expand Shariah-compliant investment opportunities, attracting both retail and institutional investors seeking ethical, asset-backed instruments.

Strengthening Tanzania’s Capital Markets

Stanbic Bank played a central role in providing structuring support throughout the transaction, leveraging its regional experience and execution capability to ensure a successful outcome. The Sukuk issuance demonstrates how close collaboration between issuers, arrangers, and regulators can support the continued growth and sophistication of Tanzania’s financial ecosystem.

Speaking on the transaction, Sarah Mkiramweni, Senior Vice President – Debt Capital Markets & Syndication for East Africa, said the successful execution illustrates the impact of strong partnerships in a maturing market. She emphasized Stanbic’s commitment to advancing ethical and asset-backed financial instruments that strengthen Tanzania’s capital markets and broaden investment choices for the public.

FORLAND YASAINI MAKUBALIANO NA RUVUMA, LINDI KUIMARISHA UHIFADHI WA MISITU

Serikali ya Jamhuri ya Muungano wa Tanzania, kwa kushirikiana na Serikali ya Finland, imesaini hati ya makubaliano ya kikanda (MoU) chini ya Mradi wa Maendeleo ya Matumizi ya Ardhi na Minyororo ya Thamani ya Misitu Tanzania (FORLAND), yenye lengo la kuimarisha usimamizi, uratibu na uhifadhi endelevu wa mandhari ya misitu katika mikoa ya Ruvuma na Lindi.

Hatua hii inakuja muda mfupi baada ya makubaliano kama hayo kusainiwa na mikoa ya Njombe na Iringa, ambako mradi wa FORLAND tayari unaendesha shughuli za usimamizi wa misitu na uimarishaji wa minyororo ya thamani ya mazao ya misitu.

Kupitia makubaliano haya, mradi wa FORLAND unatarajiwa kutekelezwa katika maeneo mbalimbali muhimu, yakiwemo uzalishaji wa mbegu bora za miti, uimarishaji wa mikakati ya kudhibiti na kupambana na majanga ya moto wa misitu, pamoja na utoaji wa elimu na mafunzo kwa wakulima wa miti ili kuongeza tija na uendelevu wa shughuli zao.

Akizungumza wakati wa hafla ya utiaji saini, Mratibu wa Mradi wa FORLAND kutoka Wizara ya Maliasili na Utalii, Bi. Emma Nzunda, alisisitiza umuhimu wa ushirikiano wa karibu kati ya serikali kuu, serikali za mikoa, wadau wa misitu na jamii katika kuhakikisha utekelezaji wenye mafanikio wa mradi huo.

Kwa upande wake, Mshauri Mkuu wa Kiufundi wa Mradi wa FORLAND kutoka Finland, Bw. Michael Howkes, alisema mradi huo unalenga kuimarisha mnyororo mzima wa thamani wa sekta ya misitu kuanzia kwa wakulima wa miti, wasafirishaji, viwanda vya uchakataji, hadi kujenga uwezo wa wadau mbalimbali wanaohusika katika sekta hiyo.

NBC YAAHIDI KUIMARISHA USHIRIKIANO NA WADAU, YASISITIZA HUDUMA JUMUISHI ZA KIFEDHA

Naibu Waziri wa Fedha, Bw. Laurent Luswetula (Mb) (kulia), akisalimiana na Mkurugenzi Mtendaji wa Benki ya NBC, Bw. Theobald Sabi, wakati Naibu Waziri huyo alipotembelea banda la maonesho ya benki hiyo katika Viwanja vya Usagara, mkoani Tanga, kunakofanyika Maadhimisho ya Wiki ya Huduma za Fedha Kitaifa. NBC ni miongoni mwa wadhamini wakuu wa maadhimisho hayo yaliyozinduliwa rasmi na Naibu Waziri huyo. Wanaoshuhudia tukio hilo ni pamoja na Mkuu wa Idara ya Mawasiliano na Mahusiano ya Umma wa benki hiyo, Bw. Godwin Semunyu (wa pili kushoto), na Meneja wa NBC Mkoa wa Tanga, Bw. Moses Charles (katikati).

Meneja wa NBC Mkoa wa Tanga, Bw. Moses Charles (katikati), akifafanua kuhusu huduma mbalimbali zinazotolewa na benki hiyo kwa wadau nchini wakiwemo Serikali, wafanyabiashara, wawekezaji, wajasiriamali, wafanyakazi, wakulima na makundi mengine ya kijamii, mbele ya Naibu Waziri wa Fedha, Bw. Laurent Luswetula (Mb) (kulia), wakati Naibu Waziri huyo alipotembelea banda la maonesho ya benki hiyo katika Viwanja vya Usagara, mkoani Tanga, kunakofanyika Maadhimisho ya Wiki ya Huduma za Fedha Kitaifa. Wanaoshuhudia tukio hilo ni pamoja na Mkurugenzi Mtendaji wa Benki ya NBC, Bw. Theobald Sabi (kushoto), na Mkuu wa Idara ya Mawasiliano na Mahusiano ya Umma wa benki hiyo, Bw. Godwin Semunyu (wa pili kushoto).

Tanga | Januari 21, 2026

Benki ya Taifa ya Biashara (NBC) imesisitiza dhamira yake ya kuendelea kushirikiana kwa karibu na wadau mbalimbali wakiwemo Serikali, wafanyabiashara, wawekezaji, wajasiriamali, wakulima na makundi mengine ya kijamii, kwa lengo la kuchochea ukuaji wa uchumi wa Taifa kupitia huduma jumuishi na bunifu za kifedha.

Benki hiyo imesema kuwa inalenga kuhakikisha huduma zake zinawagusa wananchi moja kwa moja, zikiwa rafiki, nafuu na zinazoendana na mahitaji halisi ya makundi mbalimbali ya kiuchumi, sambamba na kuunga mkono jitihada za Serikali za kujenga uchumi shindani na jumuishi.

Kauli ya Uongozi wa NBC

Dhamira hiyo ilibainishwa na Mkurugenzi Mtendaji wa NBC, Bw. Theobald Sabi, wakati wa Maadhimisho ya Wiki ya Huduma za Fedha Kitaifa yanayoendelea katika Viwanja vya Usagara, mkoani Tanga. Kauli hiyo ilitolewa mbele ya Naibu Waziri wa Fedha, Bw. Laurent Luswetula (Mb), alipotembelea banda la NBC katika maonesho hayo.

NBC ni miongoni mwa wadhamini wakuu wa maadhimisho hayo, yaliyozinduliwa rasmi na Naibu Waziri huyo.

Akizungumza katika tukio hilo, Bw. Sabi alisema NBC imeendelea kubuni na kuboresha huduma zake ili kukidhi mahitaji ya makundi mbalimbali, ikiwemo:

• Mikopo kwa wajasiriamali na wafanyabiashara
• Huduma za kifedha kwa sekta ya kilimo, biashara na viwanda
• Suluhisho za kifedha kwa taasisi na miradi mikubwa ya kimkakati

“Tunatambua kuwa ukuaji wa uchumi unahitaji mifumo imara ya kifedha. Ndiyo maana NBC tumejikita katika kutoa huduma za kidijitali, mikopo yenye masharti nafuu na ushauri wa kitaalamu ili kuwasaidia wateja kukuza biashara na uzalishaji wao,” alisema Bw. Sabi.