Tanzania and Malawi have reaffirmed their longstanding defence and security ties, with Defence and National Service Minister Rhimo Nyansaho stressing the need to sustain the relationship for the benefit of citizens in both countries.
Dr Nyansaho made the remarks on August 20, 2026, when he met Malawi’s Chief of Defence Force, General George Jaffu, who is in Tanzania on an official working visit.
The two held talks at the Ministry of Defence and National Service offices in Upanga, Dar es Salaam, focusing on areas of military and defence cooperation between the neighbouring countries.
Dr Nyansaho said Tanzania valued the longstanding relationship between the Tanzania People’s Defence Force (TPDF) and the Malawi Defence Force, calling for continued efforts to strengthen the historic partnership.
He said maintaining the relationship was important not only for the two defence forces but also for the broader interests of Tanzania and Malawi.
General Jaffu thanked the Tanzanian government for its support to Malawi through the TPDF, particularly assistance that has strengthened cooperation between the two countries.
He cited food assistance provided by Tanzania and transported to Malawi through the TPDF as an example of the solidarity that has characterised relations between the two countries.
According to General Jaffu, such support demonstrates the longstanding ties between Tanzania and Malawi and the importance of maintaining cooperation during times of need.
The two defence forces have continued to work together in military training, sharing of experience and joint exercises, which have contributed to strengthening operational capacity and professional relations.
General Jaffu’s visit is also expected to include tours of institutions and organisations under the Ministry of Defence and National Service, alongside visits to selected tourism sites.
The engagement comes against the backdrop of decades of close relations between Tanzania and Malawi, with defence cooperation remaining one of the areas underpinning the two countries’ broader bilateral ties.
