Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba has commended the strong partnership between Tanzania and the World Bank, describing it as a key driver of the country’s development progress over recent years.
He made the remarks on May 17, 2026, in Dar es Salaam during a farewell ceremony held at Hyatt Regency Hotel for the outgoing World Bank Resident Director for the Malawi, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe region, Nathan Belete.
The Prime Minister said the cooperation between Tanzania and the World Bank had grown significantly, with development financing reaching about 4.27 billion US dollars through various projects and programmes in key sectors such as infrastructure, education, finance and social services.
He praised Belete for his dedicated service and his role in strengthening cooperation between Tanzania and the World Bank, saying his leadership helped speed up implementation of major development projects and improved coordination between the two sides.
He said the partnership had not only increased funding but also delivered real results that directly support citizens, including better services, stronger institutions, and faster progress in national development priorities.
Speaking at the event, Belete said he was proud of the achievements made during his time in Tanzania, noting that the collaboration between the World Bank and the government had produced meaningful development results.
He described Tanzania as one of the most promising countries in Africa, citing its natural resources, stability, and commitment to reforms as key strengths driving future growth.
Belete also noted that World Bank support to Tanzania had increased significantly, with annual financing rising from about 250 million US dollars to around 750 million US dollars, reflecting stronger trust and deeper cooperation.
He emphasized that sustainable development requires both financial resources and strong commitment to reforms, adding that Tanzania had shown determination in pushing forward key economic and institutional changes.
Deputy Minister for Finance Mshamu Ali Munde thanked Belete for his contribution, saying his leadership helped strengthen cooperation with development partners and supported Tanzania’s national development priorities.
He assured continued collaboration with the incoming World Bank leadership as Tanzania advances its long-term development goals under Vision 2050.
Minister for Works Abdallah Ulega said Belete played an important role in supporting infrastructure development, especially in improving implementation of key construction projects across the country.
He described him as a trusted development partner whose contribution will be remembered in Tanzania’s development journey.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology Caroline Nombo said Belete’s tenure left a strong impact in the education sector through World Bank-supported programmes.
She noted that under the SEQUIP programme, more than 10,000 girls who were at risk of dropping out of school were supported to continue their education, helping improve access and completion rates in secondary schools.
Bank of Tanzania Deputy Governor Sauda Msemo said the partnership also strengthened Tanzania’s financial sector by supporting reforms that improve financial inclusion and stability.
She said the collaboration helped build stronger financial systems that better serve citizens and support economic growth.
The farewell ceremony ended with appreciation from government leaders and stakeholders, who emphasized that the strong partnership between Tanzania and the World Bank will continue to play a vital role in improving lives and driving national development.
