Tanzania’s renewed focus on science and technology is earning plaudits from experts, reflecting a growing national commitment to research, innovation, and capacity building. This shift is being driven by increased investment from both the government and academic institutions, signaling a turning point in the country’s development trajectory.
Strategic investments in research infrastructure have fueled this momentum. The government, through the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, has expanded support for scientific research across diverse fields, including public health, agriculture, environmental science, and innovation. These efforts are underpinned by higher funding for research grants, loan facilities for innovators, and recognition of top-performing scientists.
One such investment is the expansion of Technology and Innovation Support Centres (TISC), which are helping to commercialize research and foster a culture of technology transfer. This network is shifting Tanzania’s innovation ecosystem from a purely academic one to a market-driven model, linking universities, R&D institutions, and technology hubs.
According to critics and lawmakers, reforming the Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology (COSTECH) is central to this change. They argue the commission should operate more like a foundation than a regulatory body, allowing it greater flexibility to support research and innovation. The proposed reforms aim to boost its capacity to deliver on its mandate effectively.
Experts argue that these developments place Tanzania on a trajectory to becoming not just a user of global science, but a leader in regional research output. With strong institutional backing, clearer policies, and more funding, the nation is positioning itself to contribute meaningfully to global science while addressing its own development challenges.