Dodoma. In a major boost to East Africa’s industrial landscape, an iron and steel manufacturing plant is set to be constructed in the Nala area of Dodoma.
The landmark project represents an investment of over Sh600 billion and is poised to transform the region into a pivotal hub for metallurgical production.
The ambitious venture was officially disclosed following a high-level meeting between the minister of Minerals, Anthony Mavunde, and the executive leadership of A1 Iron & Steel Tanzania Ltd.
Speaking in Dodoma, Mr Mavunde emphasized that the project aligns seamlessly with the government’s strategic vision to halt the export of raw minerals and instead foster domestic value addition.
The Sixth Phase Government, under the leadership of President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, has received widespread praise for cultivating a highly attractive and predictable investment climate.
This enabling environment has been cited as the primary catalyst for securing the massive commitment from foreign investors, signaling growing international confidence in the Tanzanian economy.
Construction of the state-of-the-art facility is scheduled to commence in July 2026, with an aggressive timeline pointing toward completion within fifteen months.
Once fully operational, the factory is projected to create at least 1,500 direct jobs, offering a substantial employment boost to the local community and stimulating auxiliary businesses across the supply chain.
The plant will utilize raw iron ore as its primary feedstock to manufacture a comprehensive suite of end products.
The localized production line will encompass high-demand construction materials including corrugated iron sheets, binding wire, reinforcement mesh, and nails, significantly reducing Tanzania’s current reliance on costly foreign imports.
During the project briefing, Himanshu Tiwari, the Managing Director of A1 Iron & Steel Tanzania Ltd, revealed that the facility will feature advanced blast furnace technology.
This sophisticated setup will streamline the entire manufacturing sequence, allowing for an integrated, seamless transition from raw ore processing straight through to the finished commercial products.
Mr Mavunde lauded the technological scope of the investment, noting that it directly supports Tanzania’s broader industrial vision of self-sufficiency in steel production.
By localizing the value chain, the project is expected to slash market prices for domestic consumers while establishing a robust foundation for future industrial growth across the continent.
