The Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, has inspected key development projects implemented by his ministry and institutions under it in Arusha, aimed at strengthening Tanzania’s role as a regional diplomatic and conference hub.
During the visit, the minister toured the construction of the Mount Kilimanjaro International Conference Centre (MKICC) at Kijenge and the new office complex for the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights located in the Lakilaki area of the city.
Officials overseeing the projects briefed the minister on the progress and scope of the developments, which are expected to boost the country’s diplomatic infrastructure and support its growing role in regional and international engagements.
The MKICC project is designed to expand Tanzania’s capacity to host international conferences, summits and high-level meetings.
Once completed, the facility will complement the existing Arusha International Conference Centre and strengthen Arusha’s reputation as one of Africa’s important centres for diplomacy and multilateral dialogue.
Arusha already hosts several international organisations, including the headquarters of the East African Community, as well as the seat of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
The construction of the new court building is expected to provide modern facilities for judges and staff while reinforcing Tanzania’s role as host country to the continental judicial institution.
The court plays a key role in promoting and protecting human rights across African Union member states.
Ambassador Kombo said the projects form part of the government’s broader strategy to strengthen economic diplomacy by investing in infrastructure that attracts international institutions, conferences and related services.
Such investments, he noted, are expected to stimulate economic activities in Arusha through conference tourism, create employment opportunities and generate additional revenue for the country.
The minister also emphasised the importance of maintaining quality standards and adhering to construction timelines to ensure the projects deliver their intended benefits to the country and the region.
The inspection visit reflects ongoing government efforts to monitor the implementation of strategic development projects that support Tanzania’s foreign policy objectives and enhance its international presence.