African Development Bank

The African Development Bank (AfDB) plays a significant role in Tanzania’s development through infrastructure, energy, agriculture, and trade finance initiatives. Here’s an overview of its key activities and presence in the country:

🇹🇿 AfDB in Tanzania: Overview

As of mid-2024, the AfDB had approved 25 projects in Tanzania, totaling approximately $3.48 billion in commitments. These projects span sectors such as transportation, energy, agriculture, and private sector development.

🚆 Major Infrastructure Projects

1. Standard Gauge Railway (SGR)

   • The AfDB is leading a $1.2 billion financing syndication for Tanzania’s SGR, which will link the port of Dar es Salaam to Mwanza and extend to neighboring countries like Rwanda, Burundi, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

2. Dar es Salaam Rapid Transit (DART)

   • The AfDB co-financed the first phase of DART, a 21.1 km bus rapid transit system. Phase II, covering 20.3 km, received $141 million from the AfDB and is expected to open in February 2025.

3. Kabingo–Kasulu–Manyovu–Mugina Road

   • The AfDB approved $322.5 million to upgrade this 260 km cross-border road between Tanzania and Burundi, enhancing trade and regional integration.

⚡ Energy & Power Initiatives

1. Kakono Hydropower Project

   • An 87.8 MW run-of-river plant in Kagera Region, co-financed by the AfDB (€161.47 million), AFD, and the EU. Completion is expected by December 2028.

2. Malagarasi Hydropower Project

   • A 50 MW project in Kigoma Region, with $120 million in AfDB funding. It aims to reduce electricity costs and reliance on diesel in western Tanzania.

3. Isinya–Singida High Voltage Power Line

   • A 400 kV transmission line connecting Kenya and Tanzania, partially funded by the AfDB, to enhance regional power trade.

🌱 Agriculture & Youth Empowerment

In September 2024, the AfDB approved a $129.71 million loan for the “Building a Better Tomorrow: Youth Initiatives for Agribusiness” program. This initiative focuses on agribusiness training, digital tools, and incubation support, with a special emphasis on women and youth.

💼 Trade Finance & Private Sector Support

In April 2025, the AfDB and Bank of Africa Tanzania (BOAT) signed a $7.5 million trade finance guarantee facility. This facility supports SMEs and local corporates in sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, and energy, aligning with Tanzania’s Vision 2025.

🌍 Regional Integration & Energy Access

Tanzania is a key participant in “Mission 300,” an initiative co-led by the AfDB and World Bank to connect 300 million Africans to electricity by 2030. The AfDB has pledged $10–15 billion toward this $90 billion goal.

📍 AfDB Country Office in Tanzania

• Location: 5th Floor, International House, Garden Avenue, P.O. Box 6024, Dar es Salaam

• Phone: +255 22 2125281/2

• Fax: +255 22 2125283

• Website: www.afdb.org