TANZANIA has recorded a sharp increase in public participation in formal investment markets, reflecting growing public confidence in regulated financial instruments amid an improving business environment.

The trend was highlighted over the weekend in Dar es Salaam during an annual investors’ meeting organised by UTT Amis Investment Fund, where officials revealed that the number of Tanzanians participating in collective investment schemes of the Fund has risen by more than 150,000 within a year, pushing total investor numbers to over 500,000.

The development comes at a time when the country pursues long-term economic transformation targets under Vision 2050, which place emphasis on domestic capital mobilisation, financial inclusion and growth of capital markets.

Briefing reporters on the sidelines of the meeting, UTT Amis managing director Simon Migangala said the growth reflects broader improvements in the investment climate and increased awareness among citizens about formal savings and investment options.

Assets under management across the institution’s seven investment funds increased from 2.2trn/- at the beginning of the year to 3.2trn/- trillion by year-end, while the funds recorded an average annual return of about 12 percent.

Officials said the growth has been driven largely by increased participation from small and medium investors, including young people, aided by wider use of digital platforms and simplified investment channels that allow participation using basic mobile phones.

Despite the progress, speakers acknowledged that a significant proportion of Tanzanians remain outside formal investment systems, particularly in rural areas, underscoring the need for continued public education and outreach.

UTT Amis board chairperson Prof Rweshabura Kamuzora said expanding financial literacy is critical if Tanzanians are to benefit from capital markets and contribute meaningfully to national development goals.

He noted that long-term investment through regulated institutions remains an important tool for income growth, particularly when supported by consistent savings and compound returns over time.

In a sign of increasing regional economic integration, the institution also disclosed plans to explore investment opportunities within the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), as part of efforts to respond to changing market dynamics.

According to Migangala, assessments of regional markets are underway, with new investment products expected to be developed to accommodate cross-border investment interests, including from investors outside Tanzania.