COAST REGION, Jan. 1 -- PLANS to transform the Coast Region into Tanzanias leading manufacturing and logistics hub are at an advanced stage, with the establishment of the Bagamoyo Eco-Maritime City (BEMC) now firmly in sight.

A total of 8.5tri/- is expected to be invested in the mega project at full capacity, while six companies have already been issued with investment licences to operate within the Special Economic Zone (SEZ), with a combined capital of over 180bn/-.

Minister of State in the Presidents Office (Planning and Investment), Prof Kitila Mkumbo, said he expects to inaugurate operations of the first six companies at the SEZ by the end of 2026.

Prof Mkumbo said the government is targeting manufacturers, renewable energy invest...