DAR ES SALAAM: IRELAND-BASED Portwest, a global leader in the design and manufacture of workwear and personal protective equipment (PPE), has invested 8.8 million US dollars to establish a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Dar es Salaam.
Operating under the name Afriport Apparel Limited, the plant is set to transform Tanzania into a regional export hub for high-specification protective clothing. The facility will produce a wide range of specialised gear, including high-visibility and flame-resistant workwear, safety footwear, industrial gloves and advanced PPE for the global market.
Speaking over the weekend, the Deputy Minister for Industry and Trade, Mr Dennis Londo (pictured), stated that the investment is a significant addition to Tanzania’s growing manufacturing base. He noted that the project will accelerate industrial growth, create significant employment and facilitate the transfer of specialised technical skills.
“This investment clearly demonstrates strong confidence among international investors and validates the success of our investment policies aimed at promoting an industrial-based economy,” Mr Londo said.
With operations in over 150 countries and existing production bases in Bangladesh and Myanmar, Portwest’s expansion into Tanzania marks a strategic move to diversify its global supply chain.
ALSO READ: TWO TANZANIANS: Digital boom: Prospects vs contradictions
The Dar es Salaam facility currently employs 200 workers, with infrastructure already in place to scale up to 1,000 direct jobs. Portwest’s Director Mr Harry Hughes said the company’s decision to invest in Tanzania was driven by the country’s business-friendly environment and motivated workforce.
He pledged to continue cooperating with relevant authorities to ensure the factory produces goods that meet international standards while contributing to the industrial development.
The Ireland’s Ambassador to Tanzania Ms Nicola Brennan, commended the county’s efforts to attract foreign direct investment and diversify the economy.
“This country continues to build a positive international reputation as a safe destination with abundant investment opportunities,” Ms Brennan said, while emphasising the growing diplomatic and economic ties between Tanzania and Ireland.
Moreover, the factory’s Human Resources Director Ms Anna Lucas said the factory will also provide professional training programmes to enhance workers’ skills in line with global labour market demands.
Skills development has been identified as a key pillar of the investment, with employees receiving hands-on training in modern garment manufacturing techniques, quality assurance, occupational health and safety, and operational efficiency.
In addition, the government has continued to strengthen the investment climate through policy reforms, infrastructure development and streamlined business procedures to make it easier for investors to operate.