The Skyleader 600, Tanzania’s first locally manufactured aircraft, is set to be a highlight during the Tanzania International Manufacturers Expo (TIMEXPO 2024), which will kick off at the Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (DITF) on Thursday, September 26.
Mr. Freddie Manento, Chief Executive Officer of Radian Limited and the event coordinator, revealed that the Skyleader 600 is specifically designed for long-haul business travel and can carry two passengers, in addition to the pilot. The airplane is manufactured by Airplanes Africa Limited (AAL), a company based in Morogoro.
Throughout the event, two aircraft will be on display at different locations. One will be available for public viewing at the DITF, while the other will be stationed at Julius Nyerere International Airport (JNIA) Terminal 3 for testing purposes. Interested buyers or potential leasers can test the aircraft and undergo related procedures at the airport, as explained by Mr. Manento.
TIMEXPO 2024, organized by the Confederation of Tanzania Industries (CTI) in collaboration with the Tanzania Trade Development Authority (TanTrade), will feature over 300 local and international businesses. The event will run from September 26 to October 2, 2024, with Vice President Dr. Philip Mpango expected to deliver the opening remarks.
Ms. Shenina Mangula, the public relations manager at CTI, shared that exhibitors from 21 countries, including participants from Europe, East Africa, Israel, the Middle East, South Africa, and Asia, have confirmed their attendance. She expressed optimism about the event’s potential success, emphasizing the opportunities it presents for businesses.
“This year’s exhibition will showcase a diverse range of cutting-edge products and services from both local and international manufacturers,” Mangula noted. “It offers a crucial platform for manufacturers to establish partnerships, explore new markets, and expand their operations across Africa.”
TIMEXPO is anticipated to be the largest event of the year, highlighting Tanzania’s growing industrial capabilities and attracting significant foreign investment.