Dar es Salaam – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the CRDB Bank Foundation have officially launched a Simplified Guide for Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSMEs) in Tanzania.
This initiative aims to enhance the participation of Tanzanian MSMEs in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The guide equips MSMEs with practical tools and knowledge to expand their businesses across African markets.
The event, officiated on Monday, March 3, 2025, by Mr Exaud Kigahe, the Deputy Minister for Industry and Trade, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening Tanzania’s MSMEs.
As key drivers of employment, innovation, and inclusive growth, MSMEs play a crucial role in Tanzania’s transition to a middle-income economy.
“The government understands the benefits of this agreement; that’s why our Parliament ratified it in September 2021, making our country eligible to benefit from the African Free Market,” asserted Mr Kigahe.
“This decision aims to open opportunities for our entrepreneurs beyond national borders.
“To fully seize these opportunities, our people must have accurate information, the necessary knowledge, and the courage to pursue opportunities within the 55 nations of our continent.”
Monday’s seminar is part of a strategy to empower entrepreneurs to compete in the market.
The initiative launched by UNDP and the CRDB Bank Foundation provides essential resources for SMEs, including market entry guidance from trade experts and value chain mapping to identify trade opportunities, as well as a simplified AfCFTA Guide to help navigate trade procedures and regulations.
During the event, UNDP Resident Representative Mr Shigeki Komatsubara emphasized the need for stakeholders to work together.
“The AfCFTA, as the largest trade zone in Africa, presents immense opportunities to increase intra-African trade, attract investment, and drive socio-economic transformation, particularly for women,” he said.
Adding: “UNDP remains committed to supporting Tanzanian SMEs to leverage these opportunities.”
CRDB Bank Foundation’s Managing Director, Tully Esther Mwambapa, noted that MSMEs are a significant part of the economy and require joint empowerment.
“As the CRDB Bank Foundation, we are committed to supporting the growth and competitiveness of Tanzanian SMEs,” she said.
She went on to add: “With our experience in capacity-building, we are ready to provide the tools, resources, and training necessary for entrepreneurs to succeed in the AfCFTA market.
“This initiative is an important milestone in empowering SMEs, particularly women and youth, to expand their reach and drive economic growth.”
The Simplified AfCFTA Guide serves as a comprehensive resource for SMEs seeking to expand their market reach.
Additionally, the UNDP-CRDB CBF capacity-building initiative strengthens SME competitiveness and trade readiness.
Collaboration with key institutions, including the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), Tanzania Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (TCCIA), and Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS), ensures that SMEs receive the necessary support to engage effectively in AfCFTA markets.
This initiative is a significant step forward in positioning Tanzanian SMEs to harness the potential of the AfCFTA, fostering economic integration and sustainable development.
