Dar es Salaam. Finance Minister Ambassador Khamis Mussa Omar has described the World Bank as a critical partner in Tanzania’s development, citing its extensive support for strategic projects that have helped drive economic growth and improve the lives of millions of citizens.
Speaking at a farewell ceremony for the outgoing World Bank Country Director for Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe, Nathan Belete, and the official welcome of his successor, Firas Raad, Ambassador Omar said the institution has played a pivotal role in financing key development initiatives through grants and concessional loans.
The event, held in Dar es Salaam, brought together diplomats, development partners, senior government officials and private sector representatives.
The minister credited the World Bank with helping Tanzania withstand a series of global economic shocks, including the Covid-19 pandemic, geopolitical tensions, rising borrowing costs and the growing impact of climate change.
“Under Mr Belete’s leadership, the World Bank enabled Tanzania to implement priority projects in transport, energy, water, education, health, urban development, social protection and climate resilience, significantly improving the welfare of millions of Tanzanians,” Ambassador Omar said.
He commended Mr Belete for his close collaboration with government institutions and stakeholders, describing his tenure as instrumental in strengthening the partnership between Tanzania and the World Bank.
The minister also officially welcomed Mr Raad, who will now oversee the World Bank’s operations in Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
According to Ambassador Omar, the new director assumes office at a crucial moment as Tanzania advances its long-term development aspirations under the National Development Vision 2050 and continues implementing reforms aimed at boosting competitiveness, strengthening institutions and attracting investment.
He urged the World Bank and its private sector financing arm, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), to deepen their engagement with Tanzania by supporting efforts to mobilise investment, expand public-private partnerships and finance transformative projects in infrastructure, energy, digital technology, agriculture, education, healthcare and climate resilience.
“The Government of Tanzania is ready to work closely with the World Bank to accelerate economic transformation, strengthen resilience, promote prosperity and create opportunities for future generations,” he said.
Mr Belete, who is leaving Tanzania for a new assignment within the World Bank Group, said he was departing with gratitude after witnessing remarkable economic and social progress in the country.
He expressed confidence that Tanzania is well positioned to become one of Africa’s leading economic success stories, given its abundant natural resources and growing development potential.
“Tanzania possesses exceptional resources, including minerals, fertile agricultural land, lakes, a vast coastline, tourism assets and a dynamic population. With the right investments and continued collaboration between the public and private sectors, these resources can drive even greater economic transformation,” he said.
Mr Raad pledged to build on the achievements of his predecessor and further strengthen the World Bank’s partnership with Tanzania.
He said the institution remains committed to supporting the country’s development priorities and ensuring that cooperation between the two sides delivers lasting benefits for Tanzanians.
The ceremony concluded with a tribute to Mr Belete’s contribution to the World Bank’s engagement in Tanzania and a formal welcome for Mr Raad, underscoring the enduring strategic partnership between Tanzania and the global development lender.
