As the curtain falls on 2023, the government is celebrating a myriad of diplomatic successes, ranging from fostering new investments and trade partnerships to fortifying bilateral relationships across the globe.
The Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Mr. January Makamba, unveiled the substantial gains achieved through foreign missions led by top government officials. Destinations included India, Morocco, Zambia, Cuba, the United States, Qatar, South Africa, and more.
In reciprocation, Tanzania welcomed foreign leaders such as German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Indonesian President Joko Widodo, Romanian President Klaus Iohannis, Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame, Hungarian President Katalin Novák, and numerous others.
During a press conference in Dar es Salaam, Mr. Makamba highlighted these achievements, attributing them to the implementation of the country’s foreign policy, with a focus on economic diplomacy, the CCM Election Manifesto of 2020-2025, Tanzania Development Vision 2025, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and directives from the top leadership.
“In 2023, tangible gains have been recorded in the area of diplomacy and economic diplomacy. Throughout the year, Tanzania has obtained many new friends, strengthened existing ties with various countries and international corporations,” said Mr. Makamba.
The accomplishments were categorized into five key areas, including strengthening bilateral relations, cooperation with international organizations, boosting trade and investment, mobilizing resources for development projects, and increasing influence on global issues.
One significant achievement was securing commitments totaling $34.82 billion at the Africa Investment Forum in Morocco, with a portion allocated to crucial projects like the Mangapwani Port Project in Zanzibar and the Mtwara – Mbambabay – Mchuchuma/Liganga Railway project.
Tanzania also increased its influence on global issues, taking bold measures on climate change, gender parity, clean energy, and food security. The country’s participation in COP 28 in Dubai saw it championing clean energy and launching a green cooking project to support rural women.
Additionally, Tanzania strengthened good neighborliness, regional integration, and peace and security in the region. The efforts to broaden the market for agricultural produce, such as pigeon peas, cashew, sisal, and avocado, showcased the commitment to economic growth and employment generation.
Looking ahead, the Ministry plans to finalize a new foreign policy, institute special status for Tanzania’s diaspora, and open new embassies. In the coming year, Tanzania is poised to take over the chair of the Organ on Politics, Defence, and Security Cooperation of the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC).