By Lookman MirajiThe European Union (EU) Special Representative for the Great Lakes Region, Johan Borgstarm, is set to begin his official visit to Tanzania today, January 16, 2025, in Dar es Salaam.
This visit follows his recent tour of Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Rwanda, Angola, Kenya, and Uganda.
It is Borgstarm’s first official visit to Tanzania since his appointment on September 24, 2024.
A statement from the EU Delegation in Tanzania highlights that the visit aims to bolster regional mediation efforts and foster stronger collaboration with Great Lakes countries to enhance peace and security.
During his visit, Borgstarm will meet with key Tanzanian leaders, including Defence Minister Dr. Stergomena Tax and Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr. Cosato Chumi.
He is also scheduled to engage with members of the diplomatic corps, academics, and representatives from civil society organizations.
EU Ambassador to Tanzania, Christine Grau, emphasized the EU's commitment to the region in a statement:
“The European Union remains steadfast in its support for dialogue and sustainable, peaceful solutions to the challenges in the Great Lakes Region.”
She added, “The Special Representative’s visit underscores our shared commitment to addressing the region’s pressing issues and advancing collective progress.”
Borgstarm’s three-day visit to Tanzania will conclude on January 18, 2025.