Tanzania has emerged as the second-best international exhibitor at the 97th Zambia Agricultural and Commercial Show, a prestigious regional trade event held in Lusaka, reaffirming its rising influence in Southern Africa’s transport and health sectors.
The accolade was presented on August 3, 2025, by the President of the Zambia Agricultural and Commercial Show Society the organizers of the event that drew participants from 25 countries. Zimbabwe clinched the top spot.
Tanzania’s recognition was driven by its compelling showcase of transport, logistics, and specialized medical services, presented by key government institutions.
These included the Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA), Air Tanzania Company Limited (ATCL), Mbeya Zonal Referral Hospital (MZRH), Muhimbili Orthopaedic Institute (MOI), Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI), and the Embassy of Tanzania in Zambia.
Speaking to local media, Tanzania’s Ambassador to Zambia, Lt. Gen. Mathew Edward Mkingule, said the award reflected the outstanding reception and professional service delivery that Tanzanian exhibitors extended to thousands of visitors from Zambia and across the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
“This is a proud moment for Tanzania,” said Ambassador Mkingule. “It shows that we are not only committed to excellence but also that our services—especially in transport and health—are making a regional impact.”
He said Tanzania was commended for offering reliable port services through the Dar es Salaam Corridor, which links Zambia and other land-linked countries to global markets via road (TANZAM), rail (TAZARA), pipeline (TAZAMA), and air transport. Air Tanzania currently operates eight direct flights per week between Dar es Salaam, Lusaka, and Ndola.
Tanzania’s health institutions also stood out for providing on-site public health education and medical screening. According to Ambassador Mkingule, many Zambians expressed interest in accessing Tanzanian referral hospitals for specialized treatment.
The ambassador also attributed the success to effective coordination between the Embassy and participating institutions, highlighting strong teamwork and innovation in presenting Tanzania’s value proposition.
“It’s not just an award. It’s a symbol of the deepening ties between Tanzania and Zambia and a recognition of the great work done by our public institutions,” he added.
Ambassador Mkingule extended his appreciation to the Government of Tanzania, particularly the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ministry of Transport, and Ministry of Health, for enabling Tanzanian institutions to take part and fly the national flag with pride.
He gave special thanks to the Director General of TPA for sponsoring Tanzania’s national pavilion, which provided a platform for all institutions to showcase their services.
He also commended Tanzanian exhibitors for their professionalism and technical expertise, which impressed Zambian officials including ministers responsible for Tourism; Environment and the Blue Economy; Agriculture; Transport and Logistics; Livestock and Fisheries; and Finance and National Planning who visited the pavilion.
President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia also toured the Tanzania stand, underscoring the significance of the country’s participation.
Tanzania’s strong showing at the fair demonstrates its continued commitment to regional integration, economic diplomacy, and the delivery of high-quality public services across borders.