By Our Reporter
Tanzania has reiterated its growing role in shaping migration governance in East Africa, as it moves to align national policies with global migration trends driven by conflict, climate change and economic pressures.
The Minister for Home Affairs, Patrobass Katambi, said the country is fully prepared to manage emerging migration dynamics through strengthened legal, policy and institutional frameworks.
“Tanzania is well positioned to respond to the changing patterns of global migration. We are strengthening our systems to ensure order, security and respect for human dignity,” Katambi said.
He made the remarks in New York, United States, during the International Immigration Review Forum 2026, which brought together policymakers and experts to assess global migration challenges and solutions.
Katambi said discussions at the forum focused on rising numbers of refugees and labour migrants, migration policy harmonisation, and the impact of immigration laws on national security and refugee protection.
He added that countries also examined human rights protections for migrants, including those without documentation, stressing the need for balanced approaches.
“We must ensure that while states protect their borders, we also protect the rights of migrants and refugees in line with international standards,” he noted.
The minister further highlighted the socio-economic dimensions of migration, saying it plays a dual role in supporting economic growth while also creating pressure on resources and labour markets.
He said Tanzania supports evidence-based approaches to migration management, including the use of technology.
“Technology, including data systems and artificial intelligence, is now essential in monitoring migration flows. However, this must be done while safeguarding privacy and personal data,” Katambi said.
He also called for stronger international cooperation between countries of origin, transit and destination, saying effective coordination is key to addressing irregular migration.
Katambi noted that the forum also emphasised the need to strengthen legal migration pathways and improve implementation of international migration agreements.
Tanzania’s participation underscores its increasing influence in regional and global migration policy discussions, particularly within East Africa, where migration patterns continue to evolve due to economic, environmental and security factors.
