The Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo (MP), has directed Tanzania’s Ambassador-designate to Cuba, Lieutenant General Mathew Mkingule, to strengthen and expand diplomatic and development cooperation between Tanzania and Cuba.
The discussions were held on April 27, 2026, at the Ministry’s sub-office in Dar es Salaam, where Minister Kombo underscored the importance of preserving and advancing the long-standing friendship between the two countries, which has been built on years of political solidarity and mutual support.
He said Tanzania values its historical relations with Cuba and expects its diplomatic representatives to focus on promoting practical cooperation that delivers benefits to citizens in key sectors such as health, education, trade, and technical exchange.
Minister Kombo also encouraged Ambassador Mkingule to apply his previous experience as Tanzania’s Ambassador to Zambia to enhance efficiency and results in his new diplomatic role. He emphasized that strong leadership in diplomatic missions is key to attracting opportunities that support national development priorities.
“Tanzania continues to value its friendship with Cuba. Your role is to ensure this relationship grows stronger and produces tangible results for our people,” he noted.
On his part, Ambassador Mkingule expressed appreciation to President Samia Suluhu Hassan for the trust placed in him to serve in Cuba.
He pledged to work diligently to strengthen bilateral relations and ensure that cooperation between the two countries translates into practical benefits for both nations.
He added that he would focus on deepening collaboration in areas of shared interest and promoting Tanzania’s interests abroad through active and result-oriented diplomacy.
