Norfund is investing USD 30 million in NMB Bank. The investment will increase lending to small and medium‑sized businesses and the agricultural sector across Tanzania.
Norfund is providing a USD 30 million loan, alongside USD 50 million from British International Investment (BII). The USD 80 million facility will be provided in both US dollars and Tanzanian shillings, making financing more accessible and reducing the currency risk.
Many small businesses and farmers have the potential to grow but lack access to financing. Only 16 percent of firms in Tanzania have access to a bank loan or credit line, and limited access to finance remains one of the main barriers preventing small and medium‑sized businesses from growing, according to the World Bank.
“Strengthening access to finance for Tanzania’s MSMEs and agricultural enterprises is essential for creating jobs, unlocking productivity, and building resilient local value chains. This commitment ensures that more entrepreneurs and farmers can invest, grow, and support their communities. We are proud to join forces with BII and NMB to expand development impact,”
Judy Kinyanjui
Investment Director at Norfund
With a strong presence across the country, NMB Bank reaches businesses in both urban and rural areas. Through the bank, Norfund’s capital can reach companies that would otherwise struggle to access long‑term financing.
The investment is part of Norfund’s broader effort to promote financial inclusion and sustainable economic development in sub‑Saharan Africa .