File:Building blocks of success (10692932653).jpg

As Tanzania's economy grows, so will the demand for building materials as its cities expand.

James Rikoyan is a young entrepreneur who's taking advantage of this opportunity, expanding his own family business of brick-making. Thanks to Equity for Tanzania – a partner backed by the UK to provide industrial equipment on a loan basis – he now has a brand new brick-making machine and can employ 7 people.

James says:

“I started making bricks with my father when I was 11 years old. Back then we did it by hand. With this machine we can make five times more per day, and it is much easier. I mostly sell to local people to build their houses, also local schools. I’ve also started making steel grill work for windows and doors – because I know if people are coming to me for bricks they will want other things for their new house. In the future I want to build my own construction company.”

The initiative is part of a wider drive by the UK to promote business that can help build prosperity. Find out more at: www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-promotes-business-links-in-...