During the Tanzania–Kenya Investment Forum in Dar es Salaam on Monday, Mr. Edha Nahdi, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Amsons Group, highlighted Kenya's stable and predictable investment climate. After Amsons Group acquired a majority stake in Bamburi Cement in December 2024, Mr. Nahdi praised the Kenyan market for its demand for infrastructure and skilled labor. He noted that the group's recent acquisitions, including a 69 percent stake in an East African Portland cement company and the takeover of Bamburi Cement, demonstrate a commitment to long—term industrial development.
Mr. Nahdi, whose firm has invested hundreds of millions of dollars across the region, including the construction of a $250 million clinker manufacturing plant in Kwale, Tanzania, emphasized that his company's expansion is based on the integration of the East African community. Reflecting on his firm's path, he noted that after unsuccessful attempts in 2012, 2017, and 2018, a more strategic approach led to a breakthrough in 2024. He called on investors from both countries to take advantage of each other's industrial advantages and skilled labor.
This surge in bilateral investment was further highlighted by Kenyan President William Ruto during his speech to the Tanzanian Parliament in Dodoma on May 5. President Ruto reported that Kenyan firms have invested more than $1.7 billion in Tanzania, while Tanzanian investments in Kenya have reached $336 million. He expects this figure to more than double by the end of the year.
Addressing the public debate over Amsons Group's acquisition of Bamburi Cement, President Ruto dismissed concerns about foreign involvement. He argued that such investments should be seen as catalysts for the development of trade and production, rather than as sources of concern, noting that the company's previous foreign ownership was not subject to such controls.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan echoed these sentiments, noting that the expansion of Tanzanian firms into Kenya reflects the strengthening of the private sector and strengthening economic confidence. As the two countries continue to strengthen these ties, the leaders remain optimistic that this cooperation will open up significant opportunities for shared prosperity within the East African Community and the African Continental Free Trade Area.
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