Tanzania seeks global, local partners for pharmaceutical manufacturing push

Dodoma. The government has formally invited local and international investors to participate in a transformative initiative designed to strengthen the nation’s healthcare sector and promote industrial self-sufficiency.

The Call for Expressions of Interest represents a pivotal step in Tanzania’s broader industrialisation agenda, seeking strategic partners to establish advanced pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities across the country.

The ministry of Health emphasises that the programme is aimed at securing a stable supply of essential medicines while accelerating the transfer of modern medical technologies to the region.

To facilitate implementation, the government has established the Pharmaceutical Investment Acceleration Programme, a framework designed to “de-risk” strategic investments and provide a streamlined “Green-Lane” approval process that bypasses traditional administrative delays.

Investors joining the programme will benefit from a coordinated support network across government institutions, including priority regulatory approvals and access to fiscal and non-fiscal incentives under the Tanzania Investment Act.

Practical support includes facilitation of land acquisition, access to specialised industrial and economic zones, technical assistance, and guidance on Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) compliance provided by the Tanzania Medicines and Medical Devices Authority (TMDA).

The investment opportunity is extensive, covering the production of essential medicines, vaccines, biologics, and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) to reduce reliance on imports.

The government also seeks partners capable of developing medical devices, laboratory equipment, and specialised formulations, including oncology drugs. Eligible investors must demonstrate technical expertise and a proven record of regulatory compliance, including adherence to World Health Organization GMP standards.

All submissions must include a detailed company profile, financing plan, and implementation timeline, and are due by 16:00 EAT on March 2, 2026.

Pre-qualified firms will proceed to the subsequent Request for Proposal stage.

Africa’s pharmaceutical potential

Tanzania’s initiative reflects a broader continental imperative. Africa currently spends over $16 billion annually importing medicines, a situation that hinders economic development and limits industrial self-sufficiency.

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) has provided optimism for increased intra-African trade and job creation, but realising this potential requires investment in strategic sectors.

Pharmaceutical manufacturing, along with agriculture, transport, logistics, and automotive industries, is identified by AfCFTA Secretary-General, Wamkele Mene, as pivotal for shaping Africa’s economy over the next two decades.

Regional value chains offer a sustainable solution to Africa’s import dependence, allowing countries to collaborate on production and export.

For instance, semi-processed products may be manufactured in one country, further refined in another, and finalised for regional or international markets.

This approach not only reduces import costs but also stimulates job creation, innovation, and competitiveness.

Investment and market potential

Africa’s pharmaceutical sector is expanding rapidly, driven by rising healthcare demand, a growing middle class, and evolving regulatory frameworks. Tanzania, with a population of around 60 million, is among the largest pharmaceutical markets in Sub-Saharan Africa, while the East African Community and Southern African Development Community represent combined populations exceeding 480 million.

The market for APIs, medicines, and related health products is projected to grow significantly, offering opportunities for local and foreign investors, including Indian pharmaceutical companies with expertise in generics and high-quality medicines.

Tanzania has implemented measures to support domestic manufacturing.

The TMDA and Tanzania Investment Centre (TIC) offer technical support, GMP inspections, training, and guidance on importing raw materials and acquiring manufacturing equipment.

The government’s five-year target aims to produce 50 percent of hospital drugs and medical equipment locally, reducing dependence on imports and lowering domestic medicine costs.

Across Africa, efforts to boost pharmaceutical capacity are gaining momentum. Countries including South Africa, Egypt, and Ethiopia are establishing local API production and industrial parks.

Initiatives by UNECA, Afrexim Bank, and the African Center for Disease Control provide financial support and market intelligence, while the African Medicines Agency (AMA) seeks to harmonise regulations and streamline market access. COVID-19 has further accelerated incentives for local production, including prioritised procurement and pooled purchasing mechanisms.

For investors, Tanzania’s pharmaceutical drive represents a strategic entry point into a continent-wide transformation of healthcare.

Opportunities span manufacturing, distribution, and research and development, with strong potential for economic impact and social benefit.

With government backing, regional integration under AfCFTA, and a rapidly growing market, Africa offers a compelling landscape for long-term pharmaceutical investment.