Vice President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr. Philip Mpango, has reaffirmed Tanzania's appreciation for its partnership with the United States, citing tangible contributions to various sectors, including health, trade, and technology.
During a farewell discussion with the outgoing U.S. Ambassador to Tanzania, Michael Battle, at the Chamwino State House in Dodoma on January 10, 2025, Dr. Mpango emphasized the significant impact of the collaboration.
“The partnership has propelled advancements in the health sector, particularly through the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which has enabled over 1.5 million Tanzanians living with HIV to access life-saving antiretroviral therapy,” he said.
He also highlighted the success of the U.S.-supported M-Mama initiative, which has facilitated more than 100,000 emergency referrals for pregnant women and newborns in rural areas, reducing maternal and child mortality rates.
Dr. Mpango noted that trade relations between the two nations are flourishing, with bilateral trade reaching $462 million in 2024, up from $413 million in 2023.
“Tanzania looks forward to increasing trade levels further, and we are keen to establish direct flights between the U.S. and Tanzania to attract more tourists and deepen economic ties,” he said.
In 2024, the U.S. ranked as the second-largest source of international visitors to Tanzania, with over 120,000 American tourists.
He also underscored the importance of U.S. technological contributions, particularly in renewable energy and agriculture.
“Technology is critical for achieving clean cooking energy goals and improving agricultural productivity. Through U.S.-backed initiatives, over 50,000 households in rural areas have gained access to clean energy, and innovative agricultural techniques have boosted crop yields for more than 200,000 smallholder farmers by 20%,” Dr. Mpango stated.
In the education sector, the Vice President highlighted the transformative impact of U.S. exchange programs.
“More than 10,000 Tanzanian students have benefited from scholarships and training opportunities in the U.S., equipping them with skills in critical fields like medicine, engineering, and entrepreneurship,” he said.
Dr. Mpango reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to democracy and good governance under President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan.
“The government is determined to conduct free, transparent, and peaceful elections this October,” he said.
He commended Ambassador Battle for fostering stronger ties between the two nations.
“Ambassador Battle has played a pivotal role in advancing our shared objectives. His efforts have left a lasting legacy,” Dr. Mpango said.
He also conveyed condolences for the passing of the 39th U.S. President, the late Jimmy Carter, whom he described as “a champion of democracy and peace.”
Dr. Mpango expressed sympathies for the victims of the recent fire tragedy in Los Angeles that caused loss of life and property.
In his response, Ambassador Battle expressed gratitude for Tanzania’s cooperation during his tenure.
“The collaboration has been instrumental in achieving mutual goals, and I am confident that my successor will build upon these successes,” he said.
Ambassador Battle also praised President Samia’s “Four R” framework.
“It is not only a transformative structure for Tanzania’s political reforms but also a model for the world, demonstrating how a nation can achieve governance improvements and economic progress for the benefit of its people,” he said.
The enduring partnership between Tanzania and the U.S. continues to deliver remarkable benefits, showcasing a shared vision for sustainable development and mutual prosperity.
