The Deputy Minister for Industry and Trade, Hon. Denis Londo (center), cuts the ribbon to mark the official opening of Afriport’s occupational safety garments manufacturing factory located in Ubungo, Dar es Salaam. Second from the right is the company’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Henry Huge, together with other company officials and government representatives.
Portwest, the world’s fastest-growing manufacturer and distributor of workwear, safety wear and personal protective equipment (PPE), has strengthened its presence in East Africa with the operationalization of a new apparel manufacturing facility in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania—positioning the country as a strategic hub within the company’s global supply chain.
The investment has received strong support from the Government of Tanzania, which reiterated its commitment to creating a conducive environment for local and foreign investors.
Speaking during the official visit to the facility, Assistant Minister for Industry and Trade, Hon. Denis Londo, said the Government will continue to implement investor-friendly policies and legal frameworks to attract industrial investments.
“The Government of the United Republic of Tanzania, through the Ministry of Industry and Trade, will continue to put in place enabling policies, laws and regulations to attract investors and support the establishment of industries in the country,” said Hon. Londo.
“Investments such as this apparel manufacturing facility demonstrate growing confidence in Tanzania’s industrial environment and our commitment to building a strong manufacturing base that creates jobs and adds value locally.”
Founded in 1904 in Ireland and still owned and managed by the Hughes family, Portwest operates in more than 150 countries and employs over 5,500 people globally. The company is internationally recognised for innovation in occupational safety solutions, producing flame-resistant and high-visibility clothing, safety footwear, PPE accessories and fall-protection equipment.
The Dar es Salaam facility is currently employing 200 workers, with existing infrastructure capable of scaling up to 1,000 direct jobs. The investment is expected to contribute significantly to skills development, technology transfer and value addition, in line with Tanzania’s industrialisation agenda and the objectives of the East African Community (EAC).
Meanwhile, Human Resources Manager of the facility, Ms. Anna Lucas, revealed that the company has invested more than USD 8.8 million in the project.
“This investment reflects our long-term commitment to Tanzania. Beyond production, we are creating sustainable employment opportunities for Tanzanian youth and contributing to skills development within the local workforce,” she said.
Some employees also noted that the factory has played a vital role in addressing youth unemployment by providing stable jobs and professional training opportunities.
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