LONDON – Tanzania has reached a major milestone in international capital markets after its first offshore bond denominated in Tanzanian shillings was officially listed on the London Stock Exchange.
The bond, valued at US$100 million (approximately TZS 262.5 billion), was issued by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, using Tanzania’s local currency.
The funds will be used to expand financing for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) across Tanzania.
Tanzania’s Minister of Finance, Ambassador Khamis Mussa Omar, described the achievement as a historic step that strengthens Tanzania’s credibility among international investors while expanding access to long-term capital to support the country’s Vision 2050 development agenda.
“This marks the beginning of an important chapter in Tanzania’s journey toward participating fully in international capital markets using our own currency. The listing reflects the strong confidence that international financial institutions have in our economy and the ongoing reforms within our financial sector,” said Ambassador Omar.
He added that listing the bond on one of the world’s most prestigious stock exchanges significantly enhances Tanzania’s international reputation and sends a positive signal to global investors.
Jorge Familiar, Vice President and Treasurer of the World Bank, said the institution is proud to support Tanzania’s efforts to achieve inclusive economic growth under the country’s Vision 2050 strategy. He said that the financing will give international investors direct exposure to Tanzanian businesses.
Through the IFC, the World Bank Group has invested more than US$1.6 billion in Tanzania across strategic sectors including infrastructure, agriculture, capital markets, and energy, in line with the government’s objective of promoting private sector-led growth.
Investment Outlook
Tanzania’s successful listing of its first offshore bond demonstrates growing international confidence in the country’s economic stability, financial reforms, and investment climate. With access to global capital markets, support from international institutions, and a commitment to private sector-led growth, Tanzania offers opportunities across finance, infrastructure, agriculture, manufacturing, energy, and SMEs. Investors looking for long-term growth are encouraged to explore the diverse investment opportunities Tanzania has to offer.
