The rhythmic hum of heavy machinery is returning to the Themi Industrial Area in Arusha. For over a decade, the iconic General Tyre East Africa (GTEA) plant stood as a silent monument to Tanzania’s industrial past. However, 2026 marks a historic turning point. In a strategic move to slash the country’s 100% reliance on imported tires, the National Development Corporation (NDC) has officially partnered with the Kigamboni-based Saturn Corporation to breathe new life into this legendary facility.
This partnership is more than just a business deal; it is a vital pillar of Tanzania’s “Third National Five-Year Development Plan,” aiming to transform the nation into a regional automotive powerhouse.
A Legacy Reborn: From Arusha to the World
Established in 1969, General Tyre was once the pride of East Africa, producing over 1,200 tires a day at its peak. After shuttering in 2009 due to mismanagement and technical hurdles, the factory left a massive gap in the local supply chain.
In 2026, the NDC and Saturn Corp are leveraging the vast rubber plantations of the Tanga region to ensure a steady stream of local raw materials. The goal is ambitious: a modern production capacity of at least 1 million tires per annum. This will serve everything from passenger cars to the heavy-duty HOWO trucks currently being assembled at Saturn’s Kigamboni plant. For the latest updates on this industrial expansion and other car news, visit automag.tz, the premier hub for Tanzanian drivers.
Closing the Industrial Loop
The logic behind the NDC-Saturn partnership is simple: synergy. Saturn Corporation has already hit significant milestones in truck assembly, and by controlling the production of the very tires those trucks sit on, they are creating a “circular” automotive economy within Tanzania.
While the Arusha factory focuses on heavy-duty and commercial tires, many Tanzanians still look for versatile vehicles for their daily commute or small businesses. To find high-quality second-hand cars suitable for these conditions, check out auto24.tz. Whether you are looking for a Toyota RAV4 for Arusha’s hilly terrain or a Suzuki Carry for urban deliveries, the platform offers verified options that pair perfectly with the upcoming “Made in Tanzania” tires.
Sustainable Driving and the Road Ahead
The revival isn’t just about rubber and steel; it’s about looking forward. The 2026 roadmap includes feasibility studies for eco-friendly tire manufacturing processes that align with global sustainability trends.
For drivers looking to explore sustainable mobility, EV24.africa offers import options for electric cars, expanding choices in the growing green sector. As Tanzania builds its capacity to produce tires for heavy machinery, the shift toward electric passenger vehicles ensures the country remains at the forefront of the African automotive revolution.
Practical Maintenance: Getting the Most Out of Your Tires
With local tire production on the horizon, it’s a great time to brush up on tire care. Tanzanian roads, ranging from the humid coast to the rugged northern highlands, can be tough on rubber.
- The “One-Month Rule”: Check your tire pressure at least once a month. Under-inflated tires increase fuel consumption and wear out faster on the rough tarmac of the Great North Road.
- Rotation is Key: Rotate your tires every 10,000 kilometers. This ensures even tread wear, especially for front-wheel-drive cars common in Dar es Salaam.
- Alignment Checks: If your steering wheel vibrates or the car pulls to one side, get a professional alignment. Arusha’s potholes can easily knock your suspension out of sync.
- Visual Inspection: Look for “bulges” or cracks in the sidewall. In the tropical heat, old rubber can become brittle and prone to blowouts. Discover additional tips on vehicle longevity to keep your car running like new.
Why This Matters for You
The reopening of the General Tyre factory means lower costs for consumers and more jobs for Tanzanian youth. By reducing the cost of essential spares like tires, the overall cost of vehicle ownership in Tanzania is set to drop. Whether you are driving a brand-new truck or a reliable used car from auto24.tz, the “Arusha Revival” is a win for every driver in the country.
