Tanzania invests 103 billion shillings to turn research into marketable products

The Tanzanian government has invested a cumulative 103.63 billion Tanzanian shillings into research and innovation over the last 40 years through the Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology (COSTECH).

This funding aims to transform academic research into practical solutions, local businesses, and job opportunities to support the nation's Vision 2050 goals. Research Officer Ntufye Mwakigonja stated that the government's main budget provided 70.61 billion shillings of the total, while another 33.02 billion shillings came from development funding.

Of the total investment, 94.135 billion shillings went toward research activities and 9.5 billion shillings supported innovation. Education, Science and Technology Minister Prof Adolf Mkenda urged the commission to prioritize marketable products and increased productivity over simple research projects or exhibition displays. Several local enterprises have already emerged from this investment ecosystem. Guavay Company Limited produces organic and mineral-organic fertilisers under the Hakika brand using local waste and minerals.

Plant Biodefenders, founded by Dr Never Mwambela, creates biopesticides and biofertilisers, including the VURUGA brand which offers six products for various crops. Other initiatives include MazaoHub, which provides digital soil testing and farm management for smallholder farmers, and Shule Yetu, which uses SMS platforms to manage school administration. The government now focuses on strengthening commercialisation by improving access to financing, certification, and manufacturing.

COSTECH Director General Dr Amos Nungu noted that the current challenge is ensuring the innovation ecosystem can move products to market with sufficient speed. The Buni Hub also supports young people by providing mentorship and networking to help turn new ideas into startups.