The Government has been urged to turn Tanzania-owned land and buildings abroad into commercial investments to generate revenue, attract foreign capital and strengthen the country’s economic diplomacy.
The call highlights the need for Tanzania to move beyond traditional diplomatic engagement and use its international relationships and assets to create tangible economic benefits.
Deputy Minister for Lands, Housing and Human Settlements Development Kaspar Mmuya made the remarks on November 6, 2026, during a visit to a 22-storey commercial building being constructed under the ownership of Tanzania’s Embassy in Kenya.
He was accompanied by Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation James Millya.
Mr Mmuya said government-owned properties managed through Tanzanian diplomatic missions should be developed and put to productive use rather than remain idle, arguing that they could become important sources of income through commercial activities.
He urged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation to strengthen engagement with investors and financial institutions to mobilise funding for similar projects at other Tanzanian embassies.
The initiative, he said, would help the country maximise the economic value of its assets abroad while supporting efforts to diversify sources of government revenue.
Beyond generating income, Mr Mmuya said commercial investments in foreign countries could increase foreign currency earnings, open new business opportunities and deepen economic cooperation with host nations.
He also noted that managing commercial projects in international markets would expose Tanzania to wider investment opportunities and strengthen its capacity to participate in cross-border business activities.
Mr Mmuya commended the Foreign Affairs Ministry for implementing President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s vision of using diplomacy as an instrument for economic transformation.
He also praised Tanzania’s High Commissioner to Kenya, Bernard Kibese, for his contribution to strengthening relations and cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.
He said diplomatic success should not be measured only by cordial relations and political engagement, but also by the ability to translate those relationships into investments, trade opportunities and revenue that contribute to national development.
The 22-storey project in Kenya represents an example of how Tanzania could leverage its diplomatic presence and overseas assets to support economic growth.