AUTHORITIES in Tanga Region have unveiled plans to reclaim and revitalise all dormant factories in 2025.

The announcement was made by Tanga Regional Commissioner, Dr. Batilda Burian, during   New Year prayers held at Tanga Urithi grounds. 

The event was attended by religious, political, and government leaders as well as local residents.

Dr. Burian reflected on Tanga’s industrial history, noting that many factories experienced   decline in production following the collapse of the former East African Community (EAC) in 1977, which included Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.

She emphasised that the collapse of EAC played a major role in the downfall of the  industries.

"Tanga was once an industrial hub, but the collapse of the East African Community in 1977 significantly contributed to the decline of many factories in the region," said Dr. Burian.

She outlined the government’s strategy to follow up on all privatised factories to ensure they are either developed or returned to the government for revitalisation.

Dr. Burian also encouraged parents and guardians to pass down skills related to handwork and arts to their children, noting that such knowledge would empower young people to create products using locally available materials, which are in high demand locally and internationally.

In her address, Dr. Burian also provided updates on key regional developments. She highlighted that Tanga port has seen significant improvements, with an investment of 429.1 billion shillings in its expansion.

The port now accommodates 35 mega-ships from Europe, the Far East, and the Middle East, compared to just 18 ships before the upgrades. Between May and November 2024, the port served 172 ships, leading to a significant increase in employment, from 4,000 to 16,000 labourers.

Other ongoing government projects in the region include the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), ICT centres, health facility constructions, and the building of primary and secondary schools, libraries, and laboratories.

Dr. Burian concluded by emphasising that the  projects will continue to boost the region’s economy and improve the quality of life for its residents in the coming years.