How a digital platform is transforming Tanzania's property market

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania's real estate industry is poised for a significant digital transformation after the introduction of Be Forward H...

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania's real estate industry is poised for a significant digital transformation after the introduction of Be Forward Homes, a service designed to simplify property deals, enhance openness, and strengthen connections among agents, property owners, and potential buyers or renters.

The service was launched on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, during an event that included government representatives, real estate professionals, Be Forward leaders, and media personnel.

The move represents the Japanese company's newest step in extending its operations beyond its traditional automotive business into Africa's wider real estate sector.

At the launch, Assistant Commissioner for Land Development in the Office of the Permanent Secretary, Mr Shukrani Kyando, stated that the platform marks a significant move toward formalizing the quickly growing real estate sector.

He mentioned that it will allow government agencies, such as the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), to recognize property owners who are advertising houses, plots, or short-term rentals, aiding in improving tax adherence.

"This offers a significant benefit as it will reduce the spread of incorrect information between property owners and clients," he stated.

Leasing properties in large cities, particularly Dar es Salaam, continues to be a complicated procedure frequently involving intermediaries who raise costs. This website will bring greater structure and equity.

Mr. Kyando mentioned that Be Forward Homes will expand job prospects for young individuals who can sign up as agents, formalize their work, and generate income via verified transactions.

By eliminating unnecessary middlemen, he stated the service will also decrease purchasing costs for home buyers.

As he mentioned, the launch occurs during a period when Dar es Salaam and other urban areas are undergoing swift property growth, but numerous investors find it challenging to connect with reliable buyers. Be Forward Homes, he stated, provides a straightforward pathway to both local and global clients.

"It involves uploading a property and connecting with customers immediately. As the platform is available globally, the likelihood of drawing in international buyers is significant," he mentioned.

He also mentioned that Tanzania's growing short-term rental market, typically associated with services like Airbnb, will gain from a more dependable local system.

Property investors are now able to display their listings and engage with clients looking for either long-term or temporary housing.

Mr. Kyando urged Be Forward to make significant investments in both local and international marketing, stating that Tanzania's business environment remains appealing to those looking for land for industrial projects.

"More investors are now seeking land via Tiseza (Tanzania Investment and Special Economic Zones Authority). This presents a significant opportunity for the youth," said Mr. Hironori Yamakawa, President and CEO of Be Forward, adding that the company's goal is to establish itself as Tanzania's most reliable real estate listing platform.

He highlighted the importance of fostering trust during a period when digital fraud and false listings continue to be common. "Cars and homes are both crucial for enhancing living standards. Many individuals experience uncertainty when looking for homes online due to scams."

"Trust is our main priority," he stated, emphasizing that the company serves only as a middleman and is not involved in real transactions.

Mr. Yamakawa mentioned that the entry into Tanzania comes after previous launches in Zambia and Zimbabwe, with intentions to extend further throughout Africa.

Forward Real Estate Officer, Ms. Sarafina John, mentioned that the platform features homes, land parcels, farms, and investment properties, enabling agents and clients to obtain verified information with greater ease.

She mentioned that trust is established by enforcing rigorous standards: all agents need to be certified Tanzanians possessing a National ID, Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), and a letter from their local government office, along with a minimum of two years of experience and evidence of prior employment.

Ms. John mentioned that the service includes both Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar, tackling long-standing issues related to obtaining temporary and permanent housing.

The team manager for digital strategic planning at Be Forward, Ms. Shiori Tsuchiya, mentioned that the company invested seven years in creating the system and has already registered over 300 agents, with more than 400 participating in the launch.

She mentioned that the platform will provide "urgent and reliable information" to enhance trust and simplify property searches.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).