The International Finance Corporation (IFC) has successfully listed the first offshore Tanzanian shilling bond on the London Stock Exchange (LSE), raising TZS 265.2 billion (USD 100m equivalent).This marks IFC's inaugural shilling-denominated issue and the largest TZS bond ever placed in international markets.

The funds will support NMB Bank's USD 100m-equivalent local currency facility for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), with 20% allocated to women-owned businesses.This initiative is expected to create between 13,000 and 20,000 jobs.

Finance Minister Ambassador Khamis Mussa Omar highlighted the transaction as a confidence boost for Tanzania's economy, emphasizing its role in connecting international capital with local businesses.The deal aligns with Vision 2050 goals for private sector growth.

IFC's Director Mary Porter Peschka noted the importance of mobilizing global capital into local currency financing for MSMEs, reducing foreign exchange risks.NMB Bank CEO Ruth Zaipuna stated the funds will enable MSMEs to invest and grow without foreign-exchange risk.The World Bank measures this transaction by outcomes, estimating job creation and economic impact rather than size alone.