ABSA and NHC forge path to affordable modern housing

By Business Insider Reporter

On the warm morning of 10th October 2025, a team of experts from ABSA Bank Tanzania set out on a field visit across Dar es Salaam, their destination – two of the country’s most ambitious housing developments by the National Housing Corporation (NHC): the Samia Housing Scheme – Kijichi and the Kawe 711 Housing Project.

The air carried a sense of optimism as the ABSA delegation toured the sites, guided by NHC engineers and managers who proudly showcased the progress.

The visit was more than just an inspection – it was a meeting of minds between finance and construction, where both institutions shared a single goal: helping more Tanzanians own decent, modern homes.

“We’ve seen, with our own eyes, the remarkable quality of work NHC is delivering,” said Mr Obedi Laiser, Managing Director of ABSA Tanzania. “These homes represent innovation and excellence. They are not just buildings — they are a contribution to reducing the housing deficit, creating jobs, boosting the economy, and enhancing the dignity of our cities.”

His words captured the shared vision that has long connected ABSA and NHC. The partnership mirrors ABSA’s philosophy – “Your Story Matters” – a belief that every Tanzanian’s dream of home ownership deserves to be realised.

At Kawe 711, sleek apartment blocks rose against the skyline, their design blending urban sophistication with comfort. Down in Kijichi, the Samia Housing Scheme embodied inclusivity, offering well-built homes for middle- and lower-income families. The projects reflected two sides of one national dream: housing for all, regardless of income bracket.

Speaking during the visit, Engineer Grace Musita, NHC’s Project Manager, tied the corporation’s work to a broader government vision.

The Director of Sales and Marketing at the National Housing Corporation (NHC), Mr Deogratious Batakanwa (first left), briefs the Managing Director of ABSA Bank Tanzania, Mr Obedi Laiser, on the implementation of the Samia Housing Scheme, Kawe 711 project, during a visit to NHC projects held today, 10 October 2025, in Dar es Salaam.

“These projects align with the goals of the Sixth Phase Government under Her Excellency Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan,” she said. “We are using modern technology to lower costs, increase durability, and protect the environment — ensuring that every Tanzanian can own a quality home without financial strain.”

Her remarks echoed through the neatly paved pathways of the estates — a quiet reminder that these weren’t mere construction sites but symbols of hope for thousands of families.

As the ABSA team toured the nearly completed units, the collaboration’s deeper meaning became clear. By providing affordable mortgage options, ABSA helps bridge the gap between ambition and ownership, while NHC ensures that the homes themselves meet world-class standards.

“ABSA has been a true partner in this journey,” said Mr Deogratious Batakanwa, NHC’s Director of Sales and Marketing. “They have supported us financially in project implementation and empowered our clients through housing loans. This partnership is a model of how the private and public sectors can work hand-in-hand for the good of the nation.”

Beyond the cement and steel, the projects have triggered economic ripples — creating jobs, stimulating small businesses, and raising land value in surrounding communities. For residents, they promise safer, more dignified living environments, complete with modern amenities.

By the end of the tour, one thing stood out clearly: this was not merely a corporate courtesy call. It was a shared commitment to Tanzania’s future, one built brick by brick, dream by dream. Together, ABSA and NHC have proven that when public ambition meets private innovation, every Tanzanian can have a real chance to call a house a home.