Tanzania and Germany are strengthening their longstanding diplomatic and development partnership, with the two countries exploring greater cooperation in industrialisation, energy, infrastructure and skills development.
Minister of State in the President’s Office—Public Service Management and Good Governance, Ridhiwani Kikwete, said the relationship between the two countries had been built on mutual respect, genuine cooperation and a shared commitment to development.
Mr Kikwete, who is also Chalinze MP, made the remarks in Dar es Salaam on Friday night during celebrations marking German Unity Day, where he was the guest of honour.
He said development cooperation remained an important component of Tanzania-Germany relations, noting that German institutions, including GIZ and KfW Development Bank, had continued to support Tanzania’s economic and social development efforts.
“Development cooperation is an important part of the relationship between Tanzania and Germany,” Mr Kikwete said, highlighting the contribution of German development institutions to various sectors.
He said Tanzania was undergoing major economic transformation guided by its Development Vision 2050, including an industrialisation agenda aimed at building a competitive economy, increasing production and adding value to locally produced goods.
Mr Kikwete said the country was particularly interested in strengthening cooperation with Germany in industries, agro-processing, energy, infrastructure, technology and skills development.
He said deeper collaboration in these areas could help expand employment opportunities and increase value addition across Tanzania’s production chains.
“Tanzania is ready to further strengthen its friendship and cooperation with Germany for the benefit of the people of both countries,” he said.
Mr Kikwete also linked the history of German reunification to the importance of building a shared future through cooperation and common purpose.
The comments come as Tanzania seeks to attract more investment and technology partnerships to support its industrialisation agenda and broaden opportunities for value addition and employment.