DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA must defend its industries not with guns, but through science, technology and innovation, the Deputy Minister for Industry and Trade, Mr Patrobas Paschal Katambi, has said.
Mr Katambi made the remarks on Monday during a tour of the Tanzania Industrial Research and Development Organisation (TIRDO) headquarters in Dar es Salaam, where he described the institution as a strategic national shield that equips the country to compete globally while countering economic and technological domination.
“In today’s world, nations are dominated by technology, innovation, creativity and science. Managing these effectively is key to neutralising major economic threats,” he said.
The Deputy Minister commended TIRDO’s leadership, teamwork and research capacity, noting that the institution employs eight PhD holders, several professors and skilled researchers who are driving practical solutions for local industries.
“This is not just about buildings; it is about building knowledge and skills to secure Tanzania’s industrial future,” he said, praising the government’s continued investment under President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, including the upgrading of laboratories and modern research facilities.
Mr Katambi said he was impressed by a number of innovations already making an impact on local industries, citing food preservation technologies for mangoes and fish that enable year-round availability while significantly reducing post-harvest losses.
“The technologies are remarkable and have great potential to support farmers and processors,” he said.
He also highlighted progress in pharmaceutical research and automotive innovation, singling out KP Motors, led by Mr Masudi Kipanya, for producing vehicles that are gaining regional recognition and attracting buyers from abroad.
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Stressing the importance of applied research, the Deputy Minister warned against the failure to utilise scientific findings.
“A research failure is not when research is not conducted, but when good research is done and not acted upon. That is a failure of intelligence and a missed opportunity for the nation,” he said.
Mr Katambi further stressed the strategic role of research in countering global economic espionage and technological competition, urging Tanzania to remain alert to international technological developments in order to safeguard its industries.
Linking TIRDO’s work to national policy and long-term industrial growth, he said industrialisation begins with political will, clear policies and targeted investment.
“Our Constitution and policies provide direction, but institutions like TIRDO ensure these policies are implemented effectively through scientific research and innovation,” he said.
He encouraged TIRDO to continue strengthening its capacity, localising innovations and ensuring research outcomes inform industrial policy and decision-making.
“The work done by TIRDO researchers shapes national decisions and supports our industrialisation goals,” he said.
Describing modern economic competition as a new battlefield, Mr Katambi said science, technology, innovation and intelligence are now the main tools of defence.
“TIRDO is on the frontlines, preparing Tanzania to defend its industries and advance its industrialisation agenda,” he said.
He added that technological knowledge, innovation and research are critical in countering external pressures, ensuring sustainable industrial growth and maintaining competitiveness in global markets.
“Our goal is to build sustainable industries, equip our people with skills and ensure our innovations translate into tangible economic benefits for the nation,” he said.
Mr Katambi’s visit underscored the government’s commitment to positioning science, technology and innovation as strategic drivers of national development and long-term economic security, with TIRDO playing a central role in industrial research and policy support.