The Confederation of Tanzania Industries (CTI) hosted the 18th edition of the President’s Manufacturer of the Year Awards (PMAYA) on 8th November, 2024 at the Superdome in Masaki, Dar es Salaam. This prestigious event recognized Tanzania's leading manufacturers for their excellence, innovation, and significant contributions to the nation's economy.
Key Award Winners: A Tribute to Excellence
The 18th PMAYA awards ceremony, which brought together influential figures from both the private and public sectors, saw Tanzania Cigarette PLC emerge as the overall winner. The company was celebrated for its consistent performance, innovation, and significant impact on the Tanzanian manufacturing landscape. Following closely behind were Plasco Ltd and ALAF Limited, both of whom received recognition for their outstanding contributions to industrial excellence and innovation in the country.
In addition to the top three, the PMAYA awards honored winners across various sectors, further highlighting the diverse achievements within Tanzania’s manufacturing industry. These awards serve to acknowledge the vital role manufacturers play in driving economic growth, underscoring the dedication of companies that continuously strive for quality, innovation, and sustainability in their operations.
The PMAYA awards are not only a celebration of excellence but also a reminder of the ongoing commitment needed to foster development and maintain competitiveness in Tanzania's manufacturing sector.
Get full list of winners here.
Remarks by CTI Chairman, Mr. Paul Makanza
During the awards ceremony, CTI Chairman Mr. Paul Makanza reflected on the progress made in improving the business environment for Tanzania’s private sector. He credited the collaboration between the government and the private sector for addressing significant challenges faced by the manufacturing industry.
"Thanks to the joint efforts of the government and the private sector, we have made strides in overcoming persistent issues such as unreliable electricity, tax burdens, and currency shortages," Makanza noted. He acknowledged that while the progress has been promising, emerging challenges remain, including a shortage of Tanzanian shillings and delays in contractor payments. However, he expressed optimism that these issues would soon be resolved, further strengthening the country’s manufacturing base.
Government Support: A Step Toward Industrial Growth
Hon. Exaud Kigahe, the Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade, emphasized the industrial sector’s importance in Tanzania’s broader economic development. He highlighted the government’s efforts to create a conducive environment for industrial growth, citing the introduction of a new industrial policy that aims to empower the sector.
He also underscored the essential role a strong industrial base plays in fostering economic stability, creating jobs, and enhancing national growth. According to Hon. Kigahe, government support will continue to focus on policies that promote both domestic and international competitiveness, ensuring that Tanzania remains on track to achieve sustainable industrial development.
Vice President Hon. Dr. Philip Mpango: A Vision for the Future
The event’s Guest of Honor, Vice President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Hon. Dr. Philip Mpango, provided an inspiring speech that set the tone for the country’s future industrial aspirations. He emphasized that the industrial sector is pivotal for Tanzania’s development, offering vast potential for growth, job creation, and technological advancement.
"Industries are the source of the country’s development," Hon. Dr. Mpango remarked. He noted that despite the sector's importance in driving national income, its current contribution remains relatively small. He challenged Tanzanian industrialists to increase their contributions, both in foreign currency earnings and employment opportunities.
Hon. Dr. Mpango also outlined several challenges hindering the sector's growth, including the high cost of loans, a shortage of skilled labor, outdated technology, and poor infrastructure. However, he remained optimistic that, with concerted efforts from all stakeholders, these obstacles could be overcome. “Joint efforts are needed to increase productivity and enhance competition in the industrial sector to produce more products that will compete in foreign markets,” he said.
On a positive note, Hon. Dr. Mpango highlighted key government initiatives aimed at addressing these challenges. For instance, the ongoing construction of the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project (JNHPP), which is nearing completion, promises to alleviate power shortages and support industrial growth. With 99% of the project completed, the hydropower station is already generating electricity, offering a reliable energy source for the industrial sector.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Tanzania’s Manufacturing Industry
The 18th PMAYA Awards ceremony served as a timely reminder of the significant role the manufacturing sector plays in Tanzania’s economic growth. While the country has made great strides, the industrial sector faces ongoing challenges that need to be addressed collaboratively by the government and private sector.
With ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure, energy supply, and access to financing, the future of Tanzania’s industrial sector looks promising. As highlighted by Hon. Dr. Mpango, the opportunities for growth are immense, and industrialists must rise to the challenge to maximize their potential.
The PMAYA awards not only celebrate the accomplishments of Tanzania’s leading manufacturers but also serve as a call to action for others in the industry to innovate, adapt, and contribute to the nation’s economic prosperity. As the government continues to support industrial growth through policy and infrastructure development, Tanzania’s manufacturing sector is poised to become a key driver of the country’s long-term development goals.
Celebrating Excellence in Tanzania’s Manufacturing Sector: Highlights from the 18th PMAYA Awards