EQUITY GROUP CONVENES BUSINESS FORUM AT THE DAR ES SALAAM INTERNATIONAL TRADE FAIR (SABA SABA) GROUNDS TO DRIVE INTRA-AFRICAN COMMERCE

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Equity Group, a leading African financial services institution, is undertaking a landmark four-day Trade and Investment Roadshow across Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar from 29 June to 2 July 2026. Designed to unlock transformative trade and investment opportunities in one of East Africa’s fastest-growing economies, the mission brings together investors, traders, and business leaders from across Africa and beyond to explore Tanzania’s dynamic economic landscape. The strategic initiative supports broader regional integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), with a strong focus on reducing barriers to cross-border trade, enhancing regulatory coordination, and expanding intra-African commerce.

As part of the Roadshow, Equity Group convened a high-level Business Forum at the Mfaume Kawawa Ceremonial Hall at the Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (Saba Saba) Grounds. The forum was designed to foster meaningful commercial partnerships by connecting international investors with local enterprises. Organized in partnership with the Tanzania Trade Development Authority (TanTrade), the event facilitated impactful Business-to-Business (B2B) and Government-to-Business engagements across multiple sectors. By translating high-level dialogue into actionable trade relationships, the forum directly supported Tanzania’s industrial development agenda and the wider objectives of the AfCFTA.

The Business Forum was officially graced by the Director of Trade Development, at the ministry of industry and trade, Sempeho Manongi who reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to private-sector growth and investment, noting that initiatives such as the Roadshow align closely with the country’s industrialization agenda and continental trade aspirations. He emphasized the government’s continued efforts to create an enabling environment for investment and business growth.

Speaking at the forum, Ms. Theresia Mayanie, Head of retail banking and MSMEs, at Equity Bank Tanzania reaffirmed Equity’s role as a strategic enabler of trade and investment across the region. She highlighted the bank’s commitment to connecting global capital with local enterprise through a comprehensive suite of support services, including investment advisory, tailored trade finance solutions, foreign exchange services, and regulatory guidance to facilitate smooth market entry. Ms. Theresia further explained that Equity has served as a dedicated matchmaking partner, facilitating structured engagements between investors and local businesses while coordinating directly with key government institutions such as TanTrade, TISEZA, and ZIPA. These efforts are intended to provide investors with the commercial networks and policy clarity required for successful investment decisions. “Equity is proud to serve as a bridge between capital and opportunity. Through this Roadshow, we are not only showcasing Tanzania’s immense potential but also providing the financial and advisory support investors need to transform opportunities into sustainable business success,” said Ms. Theresia

Equity Group Director of Trade Relations, AQ Hamza, spoke on the importance of trade missions in driving economic growth, building impactful business relationships, and facilitating transnational trade. He noted that the Group has successfully conducted more than 25 inbound and outbound missions over the past four years, demonstrating Equity’s dedication to connecting businesses and unlocking opportunities across the region. Hamza also emphasized Equity’s focus on empowering SMEs, recognizing their pivotal role in driving economic transformation.

The forum also featured notable contributions from Tanzania’s trade promotion institution. Director of Trade promotion at Tanzania Trade Development Authority (TanTrade), Jonathan Nkwabi, delivered the opening remarks for the business session and presented the vast trade and investment opportunities available across Tanzania. His presentation highlighted the country’s strategic advantages, including its strong agricultural base, expanding manufacturing sector, strategic geographic location, and investment-friendly environment. She also underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in driving sustainable economic growth.

Following the formal proceedings, delegates engaged directly with local businesses and exhibitors showcasing products and services at the Saba Saba Trade Fair. The interactive sessions enabled investors and traders to assess products firsthand, identify partnership opportunities, and conduct preliminary business negotiations. Exhibitors represented a wide range of sectors, including agriculture and agro-processing, manufacturing, textiles, energy, information and communication technology (ICT), and the blue economy. This provided delegates with a comprehensive view of Tanzania’s diverse economic opportunities and investment potential. Structured B2B matchmaking sessions were also conducted, enabling participants to identify suppliers, customers, distributors, and potential joint-venture partners aligned with their business objectives.

As the lead organizer of the Roadshow, Equity Group has provided delegates with a comprehensive support framework to ensure a seamless investment journey. Beyond financial services, the Group has facilitated regulatory engagement and direct interactions with key government agencies, helping investors navigate the local business environment with confidence.

The Roadshow continues to serve as a catalyst for strengthening regional economic integration, fostering sustainable investment, and deepening trade relations across East Africa and the African continent.