UDSM’s Eco-Friendly Construction Innovation Wins Praise from Council Vice Chairperson at Sabasaba
By Selamani Nambimbi, CMU
The Deputy Chairperson of the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) Council and Director General of Tanzania Telecomunications Corporation (TTCL), CPA Moremi Marwa, has applauded the University for producing research and innovations that respond to Tanzania’s development needs.
Speaking during his visit to the UDSM exhibition pavilion at the 50th Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (DITF), popularly known as Sabasaba, CPA Marwa toured a range of research and innovation exhibits showcasing the University's contributions in teaching, research, innovation, and community engagement.
He urged the institution to accelerate the commercialization of its scientific discoveries for greater national impact.
The trade fair was officially inaugurated on July 3, 2026, by the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, H.E. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, alongside the President of the Republic of Mozambique, H.E. Daniel Chapo.
Among the innovations that captured his attention was a research project on environmentally friendly bricks and paving blocks developed by the Department of Chemistry under the leadership of Dr. Makungu Marco Madirisha.
The project uses locally available materials to produce durable, lightweight, and sustainable construction products designed to withstand environmental challenges while reducing production costs.
"I have seen many impressive activities undertaken by the University, including education, research, and innovation. One project that has particularly stood out is the development of bricks and paving blocks using materials that are abundantly available in Tanzania," CPA Marwa said.
"The quality of these products is excellent, and because they are lightweight, they will be easier to transport and use at construction sites once commercialized. This innovation has enormous potential for use in the construction of houses, bridges, and other infrastructure projects across the country," he added.
CPA Marwa said the innovation reflects the University's growing capacity to generate practical, home-grown solutions to national challenges through research and innovation.
He encouraged UDSM to strengthen collaboration with industry and invest more in commercializing its research outputs so that promising technologies can reach the market and benefit communities.
An alumnus of UDSM, CPA Marwa noted that translating research into commercially viable products would not only enhance the University's contribution to socio-economic development but also reinforce its position as a leading centre of innovation and knowledge creation in Tanzania.