Tanzania Roundup: 5G Technology, EL Nino effects on crops, medical tourism

Medical Tourism

Tanzania is enhancing its medical tourism initiative by selecting seven hospitals to lead the effort, Daily News reports. Deputy Minister for Health, Dr. Godwin Mollel, announced this in Parliament, identifying both public and private facilities, including the Agakhan Hospital and Saifee Hospital. The government is investing in medical infrastructure, equipment, and training specialist doctors to boost healthcare services. Selected hospitals include Muhimbili National Hospital, Ocean Road Cancer Institute, Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute, and Benjamin Mkapa Hospital. Plans for establishing medical tourism facilities at Kilimanjaro International Airport and additional referral hospitals in various regions, including Kigoma, are also in the works.

Start-up sector

Tanzania has emerged as one of Africa's top destinations for start-up funding, ranking among the top four in the third quarter of 2023 with $43 million raised, largely due to a $40 million investment in fintech giant Nala. While it still ranks behind Kenya ($201 million) and Egypt ($272 million), this growth is significant, especially as funding in Nigeria and South Africa has declined, according to The Citizen. Key factors driving this trend include supportive government initiatives, such as the Bank of Tanzania's Instant Payment System (TIPS), regulatory improvements, and increased mobile and internet accessibility, which enhance financial inclusion. Experts note that the educational backgrounds of many founders contribute to a vibrant start-up ecosystem. Collaborative networks, innovation hubs, and development partner support further facilitate growth. Local entrepreneurs benefit from a youthful, technologically adept population, and the government's commitment to fostering a conducive regulatory environment is boosting investor confidence. Overall, Tanzania's start-up sector reflects a positive trajectory, despite ongoing challenges.

5G Technology

The deployment of 5G technology in Tanzania is transforming the concept of smart living, enhancing how individuals live, work, and interact with their environment. The Citizen reports that Vodacom Tanzania is leading this change with the first 5G network, enabling seamless communication between devices in homes, offices, and public spaces. Smart homes benefit from 5G through automation, improving energy efficiency, and enabling remote management of appliances and security systems. This technology helps homeowners reduce energy consumption and costs while enhancing comfort and security. In workplaces, 5G facilitates smart office solutions that streamline operations and boost productivity through IoT integration. Automated systems optimize energy use, enhance collaboration, and drive innovation. Additionally, advanced smart security systems utilize 5G for real-time monitoring and alerts, providing peace of mind for both homes and businesses. Overall, the 5G revolution in Tanzania promises a future of connected living that prioritises efficiency, sustainability, and comfort.

El Nino effects on crops

Tanzania experienced a $69 million crop loss, totalling 240,709 metric tons, due to floods from El Nino-driven rains in the 2023-2024 season, as reported by the World Food Program. Additionally, approximately 90,000 livestock valued at $62 million were lost across 14 districts, according to AP7AM. This joint assessment highlighted significant setbacks to Tanzania's agricultural sector, which contributes about 25% to the GDP, and impacted over 51,000 households, displacing more than 200,000 people.

Real Estate

Coldwell Banker, a US real estate company, has launched its master franchise in Tanzania, including Zanzibar, to capitalise on the country's growing $1.5 billion real estate market. This sector, which contributes 3.1% to Tanzania's economy, has seen growth driven by urbanisation, tourism, and luxury beachfront properties. The franchise will operate through Coldwell Banker Islemark Realty for residential properties and Coldwell Banker Commercial Blueridge for commercial real estate, The Citizen reports. CEO Gina Washington emphasised their commitment to quality services, sustainable development, and adapting to local market demands. The expansion aligns with the company’s global strategy, as Tanzania's evolving market offers diverse housing options, supported by government initiatives to attract foreign investment.