Tanzania’s diplomatic missions abroad are playing a critical role in attracting investment, securing development financing and opening international markets for the country, Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation Minister Mahmoud Thabit Kombo has said.
The minister said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had evolved beyond traditional diplomacy to become an important driver of Tanzania’s economic and development agenda, supporting government efforts across sectors including transport, trade, agriculture, energy and tourism.
Mr Kombo made the remarks on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, during a meeting between the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Security (NUU) and the ministry’s management in Dodoma.
The meeting was chaired by committee chairperson Najma Murtaza Giga.
He said Tanzania’s embassies and diplomatic missions had contributed to major national achievements by connecting the country with foreign governments, investors, development partners and international institutions.
“Briefly, our embassies are involved in every aspect of the achievements being witnessed in the country, including securing financing for infrastructure projects such as the modern railway, aircraft procurement, securing flight permits for ATCL, revenue collection through tourism and visa fees paid by visitors, as well as creating opportunities in the blue economy,” Mr Kombo said.
His remarks highlight the growing importance of economic diplomacy at a time when Tanzania is seeking to attract more capital, expand exports, increase tourism earnings and secure financing for major infrastructure projects.
Mr Kombo said the ministry had continued to implement its mandate in line with the Foreign Policy of 2001 and its revised 2024 edition, resulting in progress in several areas.
He cited the expansion of Tanzania’s diplomatic representation, increased trade and foreign direct investment opportunities, stronger bilateral relations and improved access to grants and concessional loans among the key achievements.
The minister also pointed to the growing international use of Kiswahili as another area where Tanzania’s diplomatic engagement was yielding results.
The developments, he said, reflected the ministry’s broader role in advancing Tanzania’s interests internationally while creating opportunities that can translate into tangible benefits for citizens.
Members of the parliamentary committee commended the ministry for its efforts to strengthen Tanzania’s international relations and protect the country’s interests.
However, they called for continued efforts to ensure Tanzania’s diplomatic presence delivers even greater economic and strategic benefits.
The committee’s position comes as Tanzania increasingly looks to international partnerships to support infrastructure development, attract investment, expand trade and strengthen cooperation in areas such as tourism, energy and the blue economy.
The ministry is therefore expected to continue positioning Tanzania as an attractive destination for investment while ensuring that international engagements contribute directly to national development priorities and improved livelihoods.
