Tanzania and Egypt have agreed to expand their strategic partnership by increasing trade and investment in key sectors, including agriculture, livestock, manufacturing, infrastructure and healthcare, as the two countries seek to strengthen economic cooperation under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The agreement was reached on Saturday during bilateral talks between President Samia Suluhu Hassan and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, who is on a state visit to Tanzania.
Addressing a joint press briefing after the talks, President Samia said the two governments had directed relevant institutions to speed up the implementation of agreed projects while taking full advantage of opportunities created by the AfCFTA to boost intra-African trade and investment.
Among the key infrastructure projects discussed were the proposed Bagamoyo Port and a railway linking the port with the Kwala Inland Dry Port, both of which are expected to strengthen Tanzania's position as a regional trade and logistics hub.
The two leaders also agreed to enhance cooperation in the aviation sector. President Samia said Air Tanzania Company Limited (ATCL) is preparing to launch direct flights to Egypt, while collaboration between ATCL and EgyptAir will be expanded to improve passenger and cargo connectivity between the two countries.
Beyond infrastructure, Tanzania and Egypt identified agriculture and livestock as priority areas for future investment. The two countries agreed to cooperate in developing the Ruvu National Ranch and to explore partnerships with Tanzanian institutions, including the National Service (JKT), the Prisons Service and the National Ranching Company (NARCO), which manage large tracts of land suitable for commercial farming and livestock production.
President El-Sisi described the relationship between Tanzania and Egypt as long-standing and strategic, saying Cairo remains committed to broadening cooperation in sectors that directly contribute to economic growth and improve livelihoods.
He said Egypt is ready to support Tanzania's health sector through the construction of hospitals, expansion of specialised healthcare services and training of medical professionals.
The Egyptian leader also expressed interest in increasing bilateral trade in agricultural products, medical equipment and other strategic industries, saying stronger economic ties would create greater opportunities for businesses and citizens in both countries.
President El-Sisi further congratulated Tanzania on the completion of the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project, noting that reliable energy supply would provide a stronger foundation for industrial investment and broader economic cooperation.
The agreements reflect growing efforts by Tanzania and Egypt to deepen economic integration and unlock new opportunities for trade, investment and infrastructure development across the African continent.
