Once a quiet neighborhood on the outskirts of Dar es Salaam’s bustling central business district, Ursino Street in Morocco has dramatically transformed into an economic hotspot.

Today, it stands as a vibrant economic hub, dominated by towering retail businesses, restaurants, and offices. 

This transformation is fueled by an influx of Chinese entrepreneurs and companies setting up operations in the area, drawn by its strategic location and Tanzania’s expanding economic potential. 

From retail to hospitality, Chinese investors are leaving a lasting imprint on Ursino Street, creating business opportunities for both local and foreign entrepreneurs while redefining Dar es Salaam’s urban landscape.

What was once a predominantly residential area has now becoming a bustling business hub. 

The area is located near Morocco Square, the high-end apartment complexes for businesses, residences and offices.

Restaurants serving authentic Chinese cuisine have also emerged, attracting both the expatriate community and Tanzanians eager to explore new flavors.

Local business owners, too, have adapted to this changing landscape. 

Many have formed relationships with Chinese investors, sourcing goods directly from China while others are offering logistic services. 

The result is a dynamic blend of Tanzanian and Chinese entrepreneurship, creating a unique commercial ecosystem that thrives on cross-cultural exchange.

Job creation and economic empowerment

Beyond the transformation of the physical landscape, the rise of Ursino Street as a commercial hub has led to a surge in employment opportunities for Tanzanians. 

The construction boom alone has provided jobs for hundreds of local workers, including cookers, drivers, masons, electricians, and security personnel. 

Once the businesses are established, they require shop managers, sales representatives, logistics coordinators, and administrative staff, further boosting employment.

It is estimated that the 20 business yards along Ursino Street have created at least 10,000 jobs, providing Tanzanians with stable incomes and career growth opportunities. 

Many young professionals have also been recruited into Chinese-owned companies, where they learn new business strategies and even acquire Mandarin language skills to bridge communication gaps.

For local entrepreneurs, the presence of Chinese businesses has been a game-changer. 

Kenny Ezekia, a small shop owner who has operated in the area for over 20 years, has seen his business flourish due to the influx of investors and workers.

"This street used to be purely residential, but in the past 20 years, Chinese investors have transformed it into a business hub. Their presence has increased financial activity, and I now have more customers," he said.

His shop, which sells essentials like airtime, bottled water, cigarettes, and other consumables, has become a go-to stop for both Chinese and local employees. 

"Thanks to the increased customer base, I have been able to improve my livelihood and grow my business," he added.

For others, the rise of Ursino Street has opened unexpected opportunities. 

Christopher Onesmo, a Bajaj (three-wheeler) owner, says working with Chinese businesses has significantly boosted his income.

"A friend introduced me to these businesses, and it has been beneficial. I transport goods from supermarkets to customers, providing me with a stable income to support my family," he said.

His success story mirrors that of Mathew Chiponda, another transporter who has worked in the area for 15 years. 

He has witnessed small Chinese shops grow into large supermarkets and leveraged the booming business environment to improve his financial standing.

"When I started, I was employed in a factory, but I later became self-employed. Thanks to this work, I managed to build a house in Chanika and now own two motorcycles—one that I ride and another that I rent out. I can also afford my children's education, with one in Form One and another in college," he shared.

The sentiment is echoed by Siyani Manda, another Bajaj owner, who attributes his business success to trust and reliability. 

He recounted a moment that earned him even more respect among his clients:"One time, a Chinese customer forgot his wallet in my Bajaj. It had $1,200 and 240,000/-. I rushed back to return it, and he gave me $100 as a token of appreciation. Acts like this build trust and attract more customers," he said.

Despite of the challenges, many workers and entrepreneurs see the transformation of Ursino Street as an opportunity rather than a threat. 

Clever Abdallah, a restaurant employee, says that although she initially had concerns about working for Chinese businesses, she now sees the advantages.

"At first, I worked with a different group of Chinese investors in Kariakoo who were very strict, but those along Ursino Street are more understanding. Our working hours are structured, and we finish by 6 PM with a one-hour break—something I never had before," he said.

"I work eight hours a day, I get time to rest, and the working environment is good. Our employer respects us, gives us bonuses, and allows us to bring our own food to work.”

He acknowledged that while working conditions can vary, Chinese investors have provided thousands of young Tanzanians with valuable employment opportunities. 

"When I joined, I knew nothing, but they trained me in beverage production. Now, I have a skill that I can use anywhere," he added.

Erick Samweli, a 35-year-old storage worker, believes that the government should continue attracting foreign investors to create even more jobs.

"Before this job, I was a truck driver, but thanks to my connections, I secured a position in a Chinese company. Here, I have job security, a stable salary, and annual bonuses. Since joining two years ago, I bought land and plan to start building my house next year. My children’s future is now more secure," he said.

According to data from the Ministry of Planning and Investment, China remains Tanzania’s leading source of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). As of February 2024, there were 1,274 registered Chinese projects valued at approximately $11.4 billion, creating an estimated 149,759 jobs across industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, and services.

Between January 2021 and December 2023, the Tanzania Investment Center (TIC) registered 256 Chinese projects worth about $2.5 billion. The top five investment sectors were manufacturing, commercial buildings, agriculture, transportation, and services.

As Ursino Street continues its transformation, the debate over foreign investment and local economic empowerment will remain central to discussions about Tanzania’s future. 

What is clear, however, is that this once-overlooked street is now at the heart of Dar es Salaam’s economic expansion. 

With Chinese investors playing a defining role, the question now is not whether Ursino Street will continue growing—but how it will shape the next chapter of Tanzania’s urban development.