Tanzania’s National Housing Corporation (NHC) is implementing a major Sh535 billion redevelopment programme aimed at replacing ageing properties with modern commercial and residential complexes through public-private partnerships (PPPs). The initiative, which now covers 62 projects nationwide, is designed to maximise the value of underutilised public assets while supporting urban renewal, economic growth and job creation.
According to NHC Public Affairs and Information Manager Yahya Charahani, the programme has moved from the planning stage into active construction, with several developments already completed and many others approaching completion. The first phase consists of 21 joint-venture projects valued at approximately Sh179 billion, with implementation timelines ranging from two to three years.
Construction progress has been significant, with a number of projects already operational and occupied by businesses. Of the initial 21 developments, several have been completed, while the majority have surpassed 80 percent completion. Others remain at various stages of construction, demonstrating steady progress across the portfolio.
One of the completed projects is a nine-storey commercial building located at the intersection of Uhuru and Congo streets in Kariakoo, Dar es Salaam. Kariakoo, Tanzania’s busiest commercial district, has emerged as a key focus area for redevelopment due to increasing demand for modern business premises and the need to replace outdated infrastructure.
The programme involves demolishing obsolete structures and constructing modern mixed-use developments featuring retail outlets, office space and accommodation facilities. Near-complete projects include developments on Aggrey and Sikukuu streets in Kariakoo and Rwagasore Street in Mwanza, each reaching approximately 99 percent completion. Additional projects across Kariakoo, Msimbazi and Swahili-Narung’ombe have recorded construction progress ranging from 90 to 96 percent.
Building on the success of the first phase, NHC has expanded the initiative with an additional 41 projects, bringing the total investment value to Sh535 billion. Construction activities under the second phase are already underway, including demolition works, site preparation and new building construction in Dar es Salaam, Mwanza, Arusha, Iringa and other regions.
Beyond modernising urban infrastructure, the redevelopment programme is generating employment opportunities, with each construction site engaging between 60 and 80 workers during the building phase. Upon completion, the new developments are expected to further stimulate business activity, create long-term jobs and contribute to Tanzania’s growing urban landscape.
