The Embassy of Denmark marked its National Constitution Day with a diplomatic reception in Dar es Salaam on Friday, bringing together international development partners, representatives of the Tanzanian government, and members of the diplomatic community.
Known in Danish as Grundlovsdag, Constitution Day commemorates the adoption of Denmark’s first democratic constitution in 1849, which ended absolute monarchy and introduced civil rights and parliamentary democracy.
The day remains a significant symbol of Denmark’s democratic values and civic freedoms.
The reception was hosted at the official residence of the Danish Ambassador to Tanzania, Jesper Kammersgaard, and was attended by Tanzania’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, who served as the guest of honor.
In his remarks, Minister Kombo praised the longstanding diplomatic partnership between Tanzania and Denmark, which he said has remained strong for more than 60 years.
“These relations have not only strengthened our shared vision but have also led to concrete areas of cooperation,” Kombo said.
he explained that “I would particularly like to recognize Denmark’s historic role in supporting Tanzania’s health sector. Through the Health Sector Programme Support (HSPS), many public and private institutions, from government hospitals to organizations such as CSSC, APHFTA, CCBRT, and others, have benefited from this partnership.”
He noted that Denmark’s engagement has contributed to advancements in health systems, drug regulation, and service delivery.
“Their collaboration with our health professionals has opened new doors for joint efforts that are essential to the well-being of our people,” Kombo added.
Tourism was also highlighted as an area of growing interest. According to the minister, the number of Danish tourists visiting Tanzania increased from 14,071 in 2022 to 15,036 in 2024.
“We are pleased by the increasing enthusiasm among Danish visitors,” Kombo said, adding that “I warmly welcome even more Danish tourists to explore Tanzania’s natural wonders and cultural richness from Kilimanjaro and Serengeti to the magical islands of Zanzibar.”
He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating a stable and open investment environment.
“Tanzania offers a growing and stable economy with a transparent business climate,” Kombo said, explaining that “Our government remains committed to facilitating and protecting investments that are mutually beneficial and sustainable.”
Ambassador Kammersgaard, for his part, underscored Denmark’s continued commitment to strengthening ties with Tanzania.
“Our bilateral relations remain strong, and we are committed to building on this partnership in ways that are productive and beneficial for both countries,” he said.
Denmark’s 1849 Constitution laid the foundation for one of Europe’s oldest democracies and has since undergone several revisions, including a major amendment in 1953 that allowed women to inherit the throne and dissolved the National Council, consolidating parliamentary power in the Folketinget.
Beyond its historical significance, Constitution Day also serves as an occasion for reflection on democratic governance and the rule of law—principles that both Denmark and Tanzania have pledged to uphold through continued collaboration.