AfricaPress-Tanzania: DEPUTY Minister for Industry and Trade Exaud Kigahe has instructed the Export Processing Zones Authority (EPZA) to develop all undeveloped plots to attract more foreign and domestic direct investments.
He urged EPZA to collaborate with local government authorities and create a favourable investment environment on all its plots, which would also help resolve land disputes.
He made instructions yesterday after witnessing the handover of EPZA directorship from outgoing Director-General Col (rtd) Joseph Simbakalia to Mr John Mnali who had been appointed to serve in the acting capacity.
The deputy minister was of the view that EPZA had a crucial role to play in facilitating the country’s industrialisation, urging all members of staff to discharge their duties accordingly.
“The new director-general has a challenge to come up with new plans that will see all undeveloped plots attracting and supporting investments. We have to utilise our resources,” he said.
He added that for the country to have sustainable development, it was a must to allocate more special economic zones with a favourable environment for investments.
Mr Kigahe also commended the outgoing EPZA boss Col (rtd) Simbakalia for transforming the institution and dedication for the betterment of the country’s industrialisation.
Mr Simbakalia has served at EPZA for six years from November 2014 where he was given a fiveyear- term contract that ended in November 2019.
“He was asked to continue with his role as the government looked for his successor. He has, indeed, done a good job in shaping the institution,” noted the deputy minister.
The deputy minister reminded EPZA members of staff to work diligently and with integrity and that those abusing their office would face legal action.
Speaking before handing over the office, Mr Simbakalia asked his successor to ensure the government’s industrialisation was achieved by continuing creating a favourable investment environment.
“You have to work according to the EPZA Act, rules and regulations. This institution is very crucial in building a competitive industrial economy,” he said, thanking staff members for their cooperation during his tenure of office.
For his part, Mr Mnali thanked Minister for Industry and Trade Geoffrey Mwambe for the appointment, pledging to work according to the law and putting forward national interests on his new assignment.
“I ask for cooperation from my fellow staff members as I assure them of my support in achieving the mission and vision of EPZA,” he said.
EPZA is an autonomous government agency responsible for steering and implementing government policy in the promotion of EPZs in Tanzania.
