PwC Survey: Tanzanian CEOs confident on local growth despite global risks

Tanzanian business leaders remain notably optimistic about their domestic economic prospects, even as they adopt a more cautious stance on the global outlook, according to the latest PwC Global CEO Survey.

The 2026 edition of the survey, which gathered insights from 4,701 CEOs across 109 countries and territories, highlights how African executives, including those in Tanzania, are leveraging resilience forged from navigating complex challenges to gain a competitive edge in an uncertain world.

A dedicated Sub-Saharan Africa perspective underscores this unique resilience, positioning African CEOs to better manage volatility and drive long-term success.

According to the findings, 81% of Tanzanian CEOs expect their local economy to improve over the next 12 months — a sentiment unchanged from the previous year and significantly higher than the global average of 57%. This optimism is supported by strong economic projections, with the International Monetary Fund forecasting Tanzania’s GDP growth at 6% or more in 2025 and inflation remaining below 4%.

Strong Local Confidence, Cautious Global View

On the global front, 59% of Tanzanian CEOs anticipate improvement in the world economy over the next 12 months, aligning closely with African (63%) and global (58%) counterparts. However, concerns persist around key threats: 31% feel highly exposed to geopolitical conflicts in the region (up from 24% last year), while 28% cite inflation and cybersecurity risks as major concerns.

Tanzanian CEOs also display growing confidence in their business models. 53% believe their companies will remain economically viable for more than 10 years if they continue on their current path. Those expressing high viability pointed to internal factors such as organisational efficiencies (61%), correct strategic choices (55%), and adequate skills (39%), alongside external drivers like rising demand for products/services (48%) and disruptive technologies (45%).
Despite this confidence, many have taken measured actions. Tanzanian CEOs reported reallocating 10% or less of financial and human resources across business units. Meanwhile, participation in new markets through industry convergence has yielded positive results: 60% of CEOs noted revenue increases of up to 20%, while 37% generated more than 20% of their revenue from new areas in the past five years.

AI Driving Efficiency and Profitability

Artificial Intelligence is delivering tangible benefits for Tanzanian businesses. 45% of CEOs have embedded AI into key company processes — a notable level of trust compared to global and African peers. In the past 12 months, AI adoption has improved operational efficiencies (61%), employee productivity (53%), and overall profitability (47%). Looking ahead, 52% expect GenAI to further boost profitability in the coming year.

Commitment to Climate Action

Tanzanian CEOs continue to prioritise climate-friendly investments. 22% reported that such investments have reduced costs, while 32% noted revenue increases. However, barriers remain, with 23% citing limited access to finance, 18% pointing to regulatory complexity, and 15% highlighting insufficient demand from external stakeholders.

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Commenting on the findings, PwC experts noted the resilience and proactive strategies of Tanzanian leaders:
“Despite key threats of inflation, geopolitical conflict, and cyber risks, 59% of Tanzanian CEOs remain optimistic about the global economy,” said Cletus Kiyuga, Partner, Assurance Services at PwC Tanzania.

Chacha Winani, Associate Director, Deals, added: “Tanzanian CEOs are more confident in their business model viability, with 53% believing their businesses will be economically viable for more than 10 years.”
Najma Hussein, Senior Manager, Consulting and Risk Services, highlighted AI’s impact: “Business leaders indicate that investments in GenAI have led to increased profits and greater efficiency in work processes.”

The PwC 2026 Global CEO Survey provides valuable insights into how Tanzanian and African CEOs are balancing optimism with strategic reinvention — focusing on AI, sustainability, and business model adaptation to secure long-term growth in a complex global environment.