DAR ES SALAAM, Aug. 13 -- THE government yesterday launched five strategic Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in a bold move to transform Tanzania into Africas new manufacturing powerhouse.

The newly designated zones are aimed at boosting the manufacturing and trade of value-added products, improving citizens livelihoods and accelerating the countrys GDP growth.

The five SEZs include Buzwagi SEZ in Shinyanga spanning 1,333 hectares, Bagamoyo Eco Maritime City SEZ (151 hectares), Kwala SEZ in Coast Region (40.5 hectares), Nala SEZ in Dodoma (607 hectares) and expanding the existing Benjamin William Mkapa SEZ in Dar es Salaam with over 13,000 square metres.

All five SEZs are strategically connected to supporting infrastructure, including powe...