The United Kingdom is set to expand its diplomatic footprint in Tanzania with the upcoming opening of a new liaison office in Dodoma, the country’s administrative capital.
The announcement was made by the British High Commissioner to Tanzania, Marianne Young, during a meeting with the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Dr. Samwel Shelukindo, held in Dar es Salaam on June 23, 2025.
According to Ambassador Young, the establishment of the diplomatic office in Dodoma is a reflection of the UK’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and aligning with Tanzania’s government operations, which have increasingly shifted to the capital.
Ambassador Shelukindo welcomed the move, describing it as a progressive step that will not only enhance engagement between the two nations but also inspire other countries to establish embassies and official residences in Dodoma.
“This initiative sends a strong signal to the international community that Dodoma is indeed the functional centre of government. It will encourage more diplomatic missions to invest in permanent presence in our capital,” said Dr. Shelukindo.
The two diplomats also discussed areas of strategic cooperation, particularly in the health sector. Ambassador Young emphasized the importance of finalizing the draft Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will formalize collaboration in health research.
The agreement will allow Tanzania and the UK to jointly address disease-related challenges, especially in the regions of Dar es Salaam and Mwanza.
Both sides agreed on the continued importance of supporting one another in multilateral forums, including backing each other’s candidates for roles in international institutions a signal of the two countries’ longstanding tradition of diplomatic solidarity.
Ambassador Young further applauded President Samia Suluhu Hassan for her administration’s proactive stance on critical global issues, particularly climate change and the promotion of clean energy.
“President Samia’s leadership in tackling climate issues and championing access to clean energy sets a strong example on the continent,” she noted, reaffirming the UK’s ongoing support for Tanzania’s reform and development agenda.
The new office in Dodoma is expected to enhance coordination and delivery of the UK’s development and diplomatic work, while also symbolizing a renewed chapter in Tanzania–UK relations.
