Tanzania is set to assemble its first heavy-duty lorry powered by compressed natural gas by the end of 2026, following a Sh7.8 trillion ($3 billion) investment in a new industrial complex in Bagamoyo.
The landmark project, spearheaded by HWTZ Special Economic Zone, will also involve the production of motorcycles, fishing boats and modern spare parts.
The initiative is part of the government’s broader efforts to boost local manufacturing, reduce reliance on imports and promote the use of cleaner energy in industrial processes.
The agreement was signed on Thursday, April 9, 2026, by Tanzania Investment Special Economic Zones Authority (Tiseza) Director General Mr Gilead Teri and HWTZ SEZ Chief Executive Officer Mr David Zhou of Hangwang Holding Group. The signing marks a major milestone in advancing Tanzania’s industrialisation agenda.
Mr Teri said the Bagamoyo facility will bring the total number of vehicle assembly plants in Tanzania to five since 2021, signalling the country’s emergence as an automotive hub in East Africa.