The Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office responsible for Regional Administration and Local Government (PMO-RALG), Prof. Riziki Shemdoe, has met with the Norwegian Ambassador to Tanzania, Ms Tone Tinnes, to discuss ways of strengthening cooperation in addressing climate change, with a particular focus on Local Government Authorities.
The meeting, held in Dodoma on February 5, 2026, centred on enhancing joint efforts to protect communities from the growing risks and impacts of climate change, including extreme weather events and related disasters.
The two leaders underscored the importance of empowering local authorities to respond effectively, given their central role in delivering essential services and safeguarding livelihoods.
Prof. Shemdoe said Tanzania is keen to deepen collaboration with Norway in tackling climate change challenges that directly affect citizens, especially at the grassroots level.
He noted that climate-related pressures continue to strain key sectors such as health, basic education, road infrastructure and other social services managed by local governments.
During the discussions, both sides agreed to build on the existing partnership to help address these challenges, with the aim of improving service delivery and strengthening community resilience across the country.
Prof. Shemdoe also thanked the Government of Norway for its long-standing support as a development partner, particularly in initiatives related to climate change mitigation and adaptation.
He urged Norway to continue supporting development projects that have a direct and positive impact on the daily lives of Tanzanians.
Ambassador Tinnes praised the Government of Tanzania, under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, for its commitment to strengthening diplomatic and development cooperation between the two countries.
She said the partnership between Norway and Tanzania has continued to yield meaningful results that contribute to sustainable development and improved welfare for citizens.
The Norwegian Ambassador was accompanied by her assistant, Dr Lutgart Lenaerts, and Senior Adviser, Dr Yassin Mkwizu.
