At least 11 people were killed and two others injured after a blast occurred at a Tanzanian sugar factory in Turiani Morogoro, the Fire and Rescue Brigade have confirmed.

The blast occurred after Mtibwa Sugar Factory's heating system exploded as workers were preparing to start sugar production.

Speaking to The Citizen on Thursday, Morogoro Regional Fire and Rescue Commander Shaban Marugujo said the explosion occurred at 1:00 am.

"It is true that 11 people have died, and two others were injured after the heating pipe exploded while they were preparing for sugar production at the factory. It should be understood that for sugar to be processed, a certain temperature level must be reached,” Mr Marugujo noted.

The cause of the explosion is still unknown, he added. Investigations have been launched.

“We deployed a team at the scene of the accident soon after we received reports of the accident. And we will release an official report once the investigation is complete," he said.