TANGA, Oct. 16 -- THE powdered soap manufacturer Africa Harmony— formerly known as FOMA, is nearing completion of its trial production phase, signalling a significant milestone in efforts to revive Tangas once-thriving industrial base.

Full-scale production is expected to begin in January next year, signalling the longawaited return of one of the citys most iconic factories.

The revival of the soap factory is part of a broader government effort to restore three major industries in Tanga, Unique Steel Rolling Mills, formerly Tanga Steel Rolling Mills, Africa Harmony, formerly FOMA and Plywood and Panel Mills, formerly Sikh Saw Mills.

The Ministry of Trade and Industrys Permanent Secretary, Mr Hashil Abdallah, said during a recent ...