By The Respondent Reporter
Tanzania has joined other Southern African Development Community (SADC) member states in launching a new dialogue platform with the United States.
The initiative aims to strengthen cooperation in peace and security, health, the economy, and the management of key resources such as energy and minerals.
The inaugural senior officials’ meeting took place on August 13, 2025, in Antananarivo, Madagascar.
Tanzania’s delegation was led by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Dr. Samwel Shelukindo.
SADC Deputy Executive Secretary for Regional Integration, Ms. Angeles N’Tumba, said the meeting was the first step in developing clear guidelines for future cooperation.
She explained that the platform will help both sides focus on shared priorities that can boost regional stability and economic growth.
US Deputy Assistant Secretary for African Affairs, Ambassador Melanie H. Higgins, assured SADC that Washington remains committed to the partnership despite changes in US policy.
She said the US is ready to work with the bloc to address challenges that slow down development projects and threaten peace in the region.
T
his platform seems to be a sign of deeper engagement between SADC and the US at a time when global competition for influence in Africa is increasing.
By creating a structured forum for discussion, both sides hope to align their interests and unlock new opportunities for trade, investment, and security cooperation.