Tanzania and South Africa have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral economic cooperation, following high-level discussions held in Dar es Salaam.
The agreement was reached during a meeting between Tanzania’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, and South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola. The talks took place at the Ministry’s offices in the Tanzanian capital.
Also present were key senior government officials, including the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Dr. Samwel Shelukindo; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Mr. Gerald Mweli; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Industry and Trade, Dr. Hashil Abdallah; Tanzania’s High Commissioner to South Africa, James Bwana; South Africa’s High Commissioner to Tanzania, Noluthando Mayende-Malepe; as well as other senior officials from both nations.
During the meeting, the two countries agreed to continue collaborating across various sectors and to institutionalize regular dialogue aimed at resolving challenges that hinder the expansion of economic ties.
Minister Kombo reaffirmed Tanzania’s readiness to strengthen its economic partnership with South Africa, particularly in the areas of trade and agriculture.
“I wish to reaffirm the Government of Tanzania’s strong commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation, especially in advancing economic partnerships for the benefit of citizens in both countries. By sustaining and expanding our longstanding relationship, we can achieve even greater shared success,” he stated.
He also urged Tanzanian officials to actively engage with their South African counterparts in order to implement joint economic initiatives effectively.
Minister Lamola, on his part, assured that South Africa is dedicated to ensuring the full implementation of the agreements through a jointly developed Action and Monitoring Plan.
He also called upon relevant authorities in both countries to expedite the signing of agreements and memoranda of understanding across key sectors to solidify the partnership.
“It is vital that we establish a robust follow-up mechanism to efficiently address all agreed matters. South Africa is committed to working closely with Tanzanian counterparts to tackle any challenges and foster stronger economic ties,” said Minister Lamola.
He further encouraged business communities in both Tanzania and South Africa to actively participate in trade and investment initiatives, noting that such engagement is crucial to realizing mutual economic benefits.
Finally, both sides emphasized that senior officials will continue to collaborate closely to improve the business environment and unlock opportunities that serve the interests of both countries and their people.
