UNDP, CRDB boost for Tanzanian SMEs

Dar es Salaam. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the CRDB Bank Foundation have launched a guide to help Tanzanian micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) participate in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The initiative provides MSMEs with tools and knowledge to expand across African markets.

Gracing the guide launch on Monday, March 3, 2025, the deputy minister for Industry and Trade, Mr Exaud Kagahe, said the government was committed to supporting MSMEs as key drivers of employment and economic growth.

“The government understands the benefits of AfCFTA; that is why our parliament ratified it in September 2021, making Tanzania eligible to benefit from the African Free Market,” said Mr Kagahe, noting that to seize these opportunities, Tanzanians must have accurate information, the knowledge, and the courage to cross borders. 

The initiative provides SMEs with resources, including market entry guidance, value chain mapping, and a simplified AfCFTA Guide to help entrepreneurs navigate trade procedures and regulations.

UNDP Resident Representative Mr Shigeki Komatsubara said it was important for various players to collaborate in ensuring that Tanzanians realise the AfCFTA benefits.

“AfCFTA, as the largest trade zone in Africa, presents opportunities to increase intra-African trade, attract investment, and drive economic transformation. UNDP remains committed to supporting Tanzanian SMEs to leverage these opportunities,” he said.

CRDB Bank Foundation maanaging director, Ms Tully Esther Mwambapa, highlighted the need to empower MSMEs. 

“As the CRDB Bank Foundation, we are committed to supporting the growth and competitiveness of Tanzanian SMEs. 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 across Africa and contribute to economic growth,” she said.

The Simplified AfCFTA Guide, launched at the event, serves as a resource for SMEs looking to expand their market reach. 

The UNDP-CRDB Bank Foundation capacity-building initiative also strengthens SME competitiveness and trade readiness. 

Collaborations with key institutions, including the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), Tanzania Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (TCCIA), and Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS), ensure that SMEs receive support to engage in AfCFTA markets.

This initiative is a step forward in positioning Tanzanian SMEs to benefit from AfCFTA and promote economic integration.