 |
| Minister for Finance, H.E. Ambassador Khamis Mussa Omar, MP (fourth from right) officially launches Tanzania's first US$100 million offshore bond, equivalent to approximately TZS 262.5 billion, issued by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, and denominated in Tanzanian shillings (TZS). The landmark bond has been listed on the London Stock Exchange in the United Kingdom, with the proceeds provided as a loan to NMB Bank Plc to expand financing for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). Among those witnessing the launch are NMB Bank Plc Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Ms Ruth Zaipuna (fifth from right) and World Bank Vice President and Treasurer, Mr Jorge Familiar (third from right). |
IFC Raises US$100 Million for NMB to Expand SME Financing, with 20% Earmarked for Women-Owned Businesses
LONDON, United Kingdom; July 24, 2026 – Tanzania has achieved a landmark milestone in international capital markets following the successful listing of the country's first-ever Tanzania shilling-denominated offshore bond on the London Stock Exchange (LSE). The bond, valued at US$100 million (approximately TZS 262.5 billion), was issued by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, marking a historic breakthrough in Tanzania's financial sector.
The proceeds from the bond have been invested in NMB Bank Plc through a long-term financing facility that will support lending to micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) across Tanzania. Notably, 20% of the financing—equivalent to approximately TZS 52.5 billion—has been specifically allocated to women-owned businesses, reinforcing the country's commitment to inclusive economic growth.
A Milestone for Tanzania's Global Capital Markets Ambitions
Speaking after ringing the ceremonial closing bell to mark the bond's launch and the close of trading at the London Stock Exchange, Tanzania's Minister for Finance, H.E. Ambassador Khamis Mussa Omar, described the listing as a transformative moment that strengthens Tanzania's position in global financial markets.
"This marks the beginning of an important chapter in Tanzania's journey towards active participation in international capital markets using our own currency. The successful listing demonstrates the confidence that international financial institutions have in our economy and in the ongoing reforms within our financial sector," said Ambassador Omar.
He noted that listing the bond on one of the world's most prestigious stock exchanges significantly enhances Tanzania's credibility among international investors while improving the country's ability to access financing at more competitive rates.
"Our objective is not only to ensure the success of this bond in international markets but also to make sure that its impact is felt directly in the growth of the private sector, particularly among SMEs, which remain the backbone of our economy," he added.
NMB to Channel Long-Term Capital into Business Growth
NMB Bank Plc Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Ms Ruth Zaipuna, welcomed the investment, saying the long-term financing will enable the bank to extend more affordable and sustainable credit to Tanzania's growing SME sector.
She explained that the financing will stimulate economic activity by supporting business expansion, increasing productivity, creating employment opportunities and accelerating private sector growth.
"This is the second time NMB has successfully accessed financing through the London Stock Exchange. In 2023, we secured more than TZS 400 billion through a Social Bond, and today we have mobilised over TZS 262.5 billion through the first-ever Tanzania shilling-denominated offshore bond listed internationally," said Ms Zaipuna.
IFC Highlights Long-Term Development Impact
Speaking during the event, World Bank Vice President and Treasurer, Mr Jorge Familiar, said the World Bank Group is proud to partner with Tanzania in advancing the country's Vision 2050 through sustainable private sector financing.
"Our focus extends beyond the amount of capital invested. We measure success by the development impact these investments create. We believe this financing will generate significant economic and social transformation, with an estimated 13,000 to 20,000 jobs expected to be created, including opportunities for women. At the same time, international investors gain a unique opportunity to invest in Tanzania's growing business sector," Mr Familiar said.
Strengthening Tanzania's Vision 2050
The landmark transaction is widely regarded as a strategic step towards positioning Tanzania as a more competitive participant in global financial markets while expanding access to local currency financing.
By attracting international investors into Tanzanian shilling-denominated assets, the bond reduces foreign exchange risks for borrowers while deepening confidence in the country's macroeconomic stability and financial markets.
The initiative also aligns closely with the Government's Vision 2050, which prioritises private sector-led growth, financial inclusion and sustainable economic development.
IFC's Growing Investment in Tanzania
The International Finance Corporation has continued to strengthen its footprint in Tanzania, with total investments exceeding US$1.6 billion across strategic sectors including infrastructure, agriculture, capital markets and energy.
These investments complement the Government's efforts to mobilise private capital for national development while promoting inclusive and resilient economic growth.
Why This Bond Matters
The successful listing represents more than just a financial transaction. It demonstrates:
- Tanzania's increasing credibility in international capital markets.
- Growing global investor confidence in the Tanzanian economy.
- Expanded long-term financing for MSMEs.
- Greater access to finance for women entrepreneurs.
- Progress towards developing local currency capital markets.
- Stronger support for Tanzania's Vision 2050 development agenda.
The historic listing of Tanzania's first shilling-denominated offshore bond on the London Stock Exchange sets a new benchmark for the country's financial sector and opens the door for future innovative financing solutions that can attract international investment while supporting sustainable economic growth at home.
Source: Ministry of Finance, United Republic of Tanzania.
For more Banking & Finance news, market insights and corporate developments, keep following the Kitomari Banking & Finance Blog.
 |
| Minister for Finance, H.E. Ambassador Khamis Mussa Omar, MP (sixth from right) listens to a briefing from London Stock Exchange Chief Executive Officer, Ms Julia Hoggett (fourth from right) during the launch of Tanzania's first US$100 million offshore bond, equivalent to approximately TZS 262.5 billion. |
 |
| Minister for Finance, H.E. Ambassador Khamis Mussa Omar, MP (left) poses with World Bank Vice President and Treasurer, Mr Jorge Familiar, following the launch of Tanzania's first US$100 million offshore bond, equivalent to approximately TZS 262.5 billion. |
No comments:
Post a Comment