Tanzania’s Maasai Are Being Forced Off Their Ancestral Land – the Tactics the Government Uses

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In: Tanzania Foreign Investment News

Tanzania has a long and troubling history of evicting communities from their lands. This has happened under the guise of expanding protected conservation areas, which make up over 40% of its territory.

In recent years, the Maasai of the Ngorongoro district – a region renowned for abundant wildlife and the iconic Ngorongoro Crater – have been the target of these evictions. They’ve faced threats to their nomadic lifestyle, centred on cattle herding.

The government claims the evictions are necessary to protect the environment from a large Maasai population. Currently, around 100,000 Maasai reside within the protected area.

The reality, however, is that the right of the Maasai to use that land is being taken away by the government. The land is then leased to expand lucrative wildlife tourism and elite hunting grounds. Tourism, mostly driven by wildlife, constitutes over 17% of the country’s GDP.

The evictions have become more frequent, more violent and more widespread under Samia Suluhu Hassan, who assumed the presidency in 2021. Over the past few years, Maasai have been shot, detained and abused by government forces. This has sparked an outcry from local communities, activists and academics.

Among these voices is Maria Tsehai, a prominent Tanzanian activist who was recently abducted, and then released, in Nairobi, Kenya. Her abduction – likely part of the broader crackdown against Tanzanian government critics – has drawn attention to the repression of those opposing policies to relocate Maasai communities.

I have over several years researched conservation policies and practices in east Africa, including Tanzania.

In a paper published in 2022, I unpacked the ways in which the Tanzanian authorities, in collaboration with global conservation and tourism actors, have implemented policies forcing Maasai communities to abandon their ancestral lands. This was done through conservation management plans that undermine the interests of local communities and traditional livelihoods. The ability of the Maasai to meet their needs was also limited, for instance through restricting their access to social services.

As a result, nearly all the 100,000 Maasai living within the Ngorongoro conservation area face extreme poverty.

This impoverishment is being used to justify evicting them from ancestral lands.

Evictions for ‘conservation’

When the Ngorongoro Conservation Area was established in the late 1950s, it was meant to both conserve wildlife and safeguard the interests of the Maasai. At that time it was home to about 8,000 people.

Over time, successive policies neglected and deliberately undermined the interests of the Maasai community. This has been happening for more than six decades.

Since 2022, local media have reported that about 9,778 people have relocated from the conservation area. But the intention is for most to eventually be removed.

International conservation organisations – such as Frankfurt Zoological Society and Unesco (the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation) – have played a part in this. They provided narratives that enabled the Tanzanian government to justify its violation of Maasai rights within the conservation area.

The former director of the Frankfurt Zoological Society, Bernhard Grzimek, in particular, advocated for the removal of the Maasai since the early days of the conservation area’s establishment.

In assessment reports, Unesco’s World Heritage Committee similarly requested the Tanzanian authorities to “voluntarily” relocate residents by “increasing incentives to relocate“. This is because the conservation area is a world heritage site.

Tourism actors are also complicit in the evictions. For them the Maasai may be seen as an inconvenience or competitors for resources, such as water.

Removal strategies

Various policies push the Maasai to relocate.

First, while local communities are allowed to live in the conservation area, this was made legally contingent on their strict adherence to nomadic pastoralism. Pastoralist lifestyles are considered compatible with wildlife conservation. This means Maasai can remain in the area only as livestock producers, reliant on seasonal migration. Permanent settlements are largely prohibited. These conditions restrict the Maasai from diversifying their livelihoods beyond livestock production.

Second, though authorities advocate for traditional pastoralism, they simultaneously undermine it. Through laws, mobility is restricted; for instance they can only graze in certain areas. Access to critical dry-season grazing areas and water points is limited. These are fundamental requirements for nomadic pastoralism. As a result, the productivity of pastoralism has drastically declined.

Third, the Maasai communities in the conservation area have, for a long time, been deprived of social services. This includes education and health. Investments by both the state and other actors in social infrastructure, such as schools and hospitals, are also prevented.

The impoverishment that the Maasai face as a result of these policies is being used as a justification for their eviction. More than 80% of the population lives under the poverty line and nearly 74% of the population have no formal education. Authorities claim that resettlement is in the Maasai’s best interest.

These tactics have thus made the Maasai more vulnerable to displacement and their land easier to appropriate. Marginalised and impoverished, many Maasai either relocate on their own or are coerced into “voluntary” resettlement.

Conservation-related injustices

The ongoing dispossession and abuse of the Maasai, and other communities in Tanzania, raises urgent questions about global conservation agendas, state power and local community rights.

This is not unique to the Ngorongoro conservation area or Tanzania. Similar land grabs and evictions of marginalised communities, under the guise of nature protection, are occurring in many places across the world. As global alarm over biodiversity loss intensifies, the drive to expand protected areas has gained momentum.

However, such conservation efforts often mask power dynamics that result in the dispossession of vulnerable populations. It is vital to scrutinise how these policies are implemented at the local level.

Without accountability and genuine inclusion of local communities, such initiatives risk perpetuating the very inequalities and biodiversity loss that they claim to address.

Teklehaymanot G. Weldemichel, Lecturer in Environment and Development, University of Manchester

Source: allafrica.com

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Tanzania: Despite Mixed Assessments of Living Conditions, Tanzanians Say Country Is On the Right Path

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In: Tanzania Foreign Investment News

In substantial numbers, citizens still experience shortages of basic life necessities.

Key findings

  • Tanzanians offer mixed assessments of their personal living conditions: 38% describe them as “fairly bad” or “very bad,” while a majority say they are good (31%) or “neither good nor bad” (31%). o Substantial proportions of the population went without basic life necessities at least once during the previous year, including a cash income (84%), sufficient clean water (48%), medical care or medicines (47%), and enough food (38%).
  • Citizens are evenly divided in their evaluations of the country’s economic condition: 39% describe it as good, while 38% say it is bad. o More than four in 10 citizens (43%) are optimistic that the country’s economic condition will improve in the next 12 months.
  • Seven in 10 citizens (70%) say the country is going “in the right direction.
  • The delivery of public services such as health, water, infrastructure/roads, electricity, and education outrank economic issues as citizens’ top priorities requiring government attention.
  • Two-thirds (67%) of citizens give the government a passing grade on economic management, but fewer approve of the government’s performance on creating jobs (45%), reducing gaps between rich and poor (42%), and keeping prices stable (42%).

The Tanzanian economy has shown signs of post-pandemic recovery as economic growth reached 4.7% in 2022 and 5.1% in 2023, thanks in part to substantial investments in transportation infrastructure, energy, water, health, education, and private-sector development (URT, 2024). While the country’s economic growth contributes to poverty reduction through job creation (Kinyondo & Pelizzo, 2018), poverty declines more slowly than the economy grows. For instance, Tanzania has recorded an impressive economic growth rate of more than 6% on average since 2000, but the decline in the poverty rate has been less rapid, from 34.4% in 2007 to 28.2% in 2011/2012 and to 26.4% in 2017/2018 (UNDP, 2015; World Bank, 2019).Greater poverty reduction would require even faster economic growth.

How has Tanzania’s economic growth translated to the daily lives of ordinary Tanzanians?

A new Afrobarometer survey finds that Tanzanians offer mixed assessments of their personal living conditions and their country’s economy despite some improvement on both counts compared to 2022. In substantial numbers, citizens still experience shortages of basic life necessities.

Nevertheless, most Tanzanians believe the country is moving “in the right direction.” A large majority approve of the government’s performance in handling the economy, though fewer say the same about its efforts to create jobs, reduce inequality, and control inflation.

Lucas Katera Lucas Katera is the national investigator for Tanzania.

Mgeni Msafiri Mgeni Msafiri is a researcher for REPOA, the Afrobarometer national partner in Tanzania.

Source: allafrica.com

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Somalia: Somalia’s Foreign Affairs Minister Arrives in Kampala for AU Summit

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In: Tanzania Foreign Investment News

Kampala — Ahmed MoFiqi, Somalia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, touched down in Kampala, Uganda, on Monday to join leaders and delegates from across Africa for the African Union (AU) Summit.

The summit’s agenda is centered on the Post-Malabo Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP), with a focus on enhancing agricultural productivity, ensuring food security, and promoting sustainable development throughout the continent.

The three-day summit, which commenced today, is a critical platform for African nations to reassess and recalibrate their agricultural strategies in light of recent challenges such as climate change, conflict, and economic instability. Discussions will include policy reforms, investment in agricultural innovation, and the implementation of sustainable farming practices.

MoFiqi’s participation underscores Somalia’s commitment to regional cooperation in addressing some of the most pressing issues affecting the Horn of Africa. Somalia, still recovering from years of conflict and facing ongoing security threats, views the summit as an opportunity to gain support and share insights on how to stabilize and grow its agricultural sector, which remains vital for the country’s economic recovery and food security.

The CAADP, initially launched in 2003, aims at increasing agriculture-led growth by at least 6% per annum, reducing food insecurity, and improving sustainable management of land and water resources. The Post-Malabo agenda, named after the Malabo Declaration of 2014 where African leaders committed to these goals, seeks to intensify efforts towards these targets by 2025.

Key topics on the table include the integration of technology in farming, cross-border trade facilitation for agricultural products, and strategies to combat the effects of climate variability on agriculture. The summit also provides a venue for member states to explore partnerships with international organizations and private sectors for funding and technical support.

As the summit progresses, there will be a series of bilateral meetings, roundtables, and workshops where ministers and experts will delve deeper into specific areas of agriculture, from seed technology to market access for smallholder farmers.

MoFiqi is expected to engage in dialogues that could lead to new collaborations or enhancements in existing cooperation frameworks, particularly with neighboring countries and those sharing similar agricultural challenges. His attendance is also a gesture of Somalia’s reintegration into regional politics and economics, signaling a step towards normalization after years of isolation due to internal strife.

The outcomes of this summit could have far-reaching implications not only for Somalia but for the broader African region, aiming to foster a future where agriculture drives economic growth, ensures food sovereignty, and adapts to the changing global environment.

Source: allafrica.com

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Tanzania’s Disaster Preparedness – a Nation On Edge

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Dar es Salaam — As the dust settled over Kariakoo’s bustling streets, Halima Abdallah’s voice trembled through the cracks of a collapsed four-story building. “Help me, please! I don’t get air,” she gasped, trapped under the rubble. For four hours, rescue workers scrambled to locate her. Their efforts, hampered by the lack of proper equipment, relied on tools hastily borrowed from a private company. By the time they reached her, it was too late. Abdallah had died.

Moments before the building collapsed, Husna Faime, a single mother, was humming softly inside her tailoring shop, finishing a client’s order. Minutes later, her harmony shattered–literally.

“I felt the ground shaking, and before I knew it, everything was falling,” she recounted from her hospital bed a week later. Trapped under the rubble, she used the last of her phone’s battery to send her sister a haunting text: “If I don’t make it, please take care of Aisha. Tell her mom loves her.”

Local volunteers dug through the rubble with their bare hands, managing to rescue Faime hours later. Her survival was miraculous, but her ordeal exposed a grim truth: disasters–both natural and man-made–regularly strike unprepared communities in Tanzania, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake.

The Perfect Storm

Tanzania, home to over 62 million people, faces a myriad of hazards: floods, droughts, cyclones, and earthquakes. Compounding these are man-made disasters like road accidents, industrial mishaps, and collapsing buildings. For the 34 percent of Tanzanians living below the poverty line, the financial burden of recovery is overwhelming.

In Kariakoo, a bustling hub of markets and skyscrapers, a hidden danger lurks behind the concrete walls. Systemic corruption and shoddy workmanship have turned many buildings into potential death traps. Investigations reveal that dishonest developers, in collusion with corrupt officials, routinely use substandard materials to cut costs, ignoring safety regulations and bypassing inspections.

At least five major building collapses have been reported in Dar es Salaam over the last decade, claiming many lives. Kariakoo in particular has emerged as a hotspot for such tragedies. Experts warn that many other buildings in the area remain structurally unsound, putting lives at constant risk.

Lack of Preparedness

Tanzania’s vulnerability is exacerbated by poor disaster preparedness and infrastructure. Rapid urban sprawl, informal settlements, and inadequate drainage systems leave communities exposed to climate-induced disasters.

“Our cities are not built to absorb the shocks caused by natural disasters,” said Pius Yanda, a climate change adaptation specialist at the University of Dar es Salaam. Informal settlements are particularly vulnerable, with little to no infrastructure to mitigate flooding or other hazards.

Man-made disasters are equally concerning. Weak enforcement of building regulations makes building collapses tragically routine. “The warning signs are always there,” said Peter Kazimoto, a disaster risk reduction expert at the Tanzania Red Cross Society. “Developers prioritize saving money over safety, and enforcement is weak.”

Rural areas face their own struggles. In the eastern Morogoro region, floods destroyed Ahmed Selemani’s maize crop, his sole source of income. “We heard warnings on the radio, but no one came to evacuate us,” Ahmed said. “Now we have nothing.”

Institutional Gaps

Tanzania has a disaster response framework–the Tanzania Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (TEPRP)–but its implementation remains weak. Agencies like the Disaster Management Department (DMD) operate on limited budgets, meeting only 35 percent of their funding needs in 2023.

“We have made some progress with early warning systems,” said Jim Yonazi, an official in the Prime Minister’s Office. “But we need more resources to mitigate risks effectively.”

With limited government intervention, many Tanzanians have taken matters into their own hands. In Tandale, a sprawling slum in Dar es Salaam, residents like John Mnyamasi have built rudimentary flood defenses with sandbags and canals. “We can’t wait for the government,” Mnyamasi said.

During building collapses, local volunteers are often the first responders. Kariakoo resident Emmanuel Joseph recounted rescuing 12 people trapped under rubble. “When you hear someone crying for help, you just act–even if it means risking your own life,” he said.

Pathways to Resilience

Experts emphasize the need for disaster risk reduction to protect Tanzanians. “Disaster risk reduction isn’t just about emergencies–it’s about prevention,” said James Mbatia, a former legislator and disaster risk specialist.

Investments in early warning systems, stronger infrastructure, and public awareness campaigns are critical. Neighboring Kenya, for instance, uses mobile apps to provide real-time weather updates, enabling faster evacuations. “Empowering communities with tools and knowledge can save lives,” said Mbatia.

Critics argue that Tanzania’s government must take greater responsibility for disaster management failures. “It’s like watching a fire spread while holding a bucket of water you never use,” Mbatia said, pointing to predictable disasters such as annual floods in low-lying regions.

Gordian Kazaura, an urban planning specialist at Ardhi University, highlighted the human cost. “The poorest suffer the most. They lack the resources to recover, and the government’s response often comes too late,” he said.

A glimmer of Hope

Despite the challenges, there is growing momentum for change. Organizations like the Tanzania Red Cross are training volunteers and advocating for better early warning systems. Workshops are equipping local authorities with emergency planning skills.

“Disasters are local by nature,” said Kazimoto. “Empowering communities and regional committees to act swiftly without waiting for central government instructions is critical.”

For survivors like Faime, recovery is uncertain, but hope persists. “We need help, but we also need change,” she said. “People like me can’t keep starting over.”

Halima Abdallah’s final plea must serve as a wake-up call. Tanzania must transition from reactive responses to proactive resilience, ensuring that no cry for help goes unanswered. Observers agree–the time for action is now–before the next disaster strikes.

IPS UN Bureau Report

Follow @IPSNewsUNBureau

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UNHCR, Governments of Burundi and Tanzania Reaffirm Their Commitment to Supporting Burundian Refugees Voluntary Return and Sustainable Reintegration

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In: Tanzania Foreign Investment News

The Governments of the Republic of Burundi and the United Republic of Tanzania, and UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, met this week for the 25th Meeting of the Tripartite Commission for the Voluntary Repatriation of Burundian Refugees living in the United Republic of Tanzania.

Recognizing the generosity of the government and people of Tanzania in hosting Burundian refugees for decades and the Burundian government’s intensive efforts to support development in areas of return, all parties agreed to continue voluntary repatriation to Burundi in accordance with the provisions of the Tripartite Agreement of May 2001.

All parties committed to enhance information-sharing on cross-border labour mobility prospects between Burundi and Tanzania, as well as procedures for accessing these for returnees. Participants noted that these movements should be undertaken in line with existing bilateral legal and administrative frameworks, and as provided for by East African Community (EAC) Protocols and policies.

“The policy of both our countries is that refugees return to contribute to the Burundi’s vision 2040 as an emerging country, and 2060 as a developed country. The Government of Burundi will honour its commitments to seek durable solutions for its compatriots hosted in Tanzania,” said Martin Niteretse, Minister of the Interior, Community Development and Public Security, Government of Burundi.

The Parties agreed to support the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania in undertaking comprehensive protection and solutions-based assessments in 2025. Steered by a joint technical team comprising of the Tanzanian government and UNHCR, these assessments seek to identify appropriate solutions for Burundian refugees who are yet to return.

“In 2025, the Government of Tanzania with support from UNHCR will conduct a comprehensive protection and solution-based assessments with all Burundian refugees in Tanzania to understand their challenges. This initiative aims to identify and implement durable solutions such as voluntary repatriation, resettlement, and local integration. The process will be transparent and inclusive to all relevant stakeholders at every stage,” said Hon. Daniel Baran Sillo, Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Government of Tanzania.

Participants emphasized the importance of access to education and livelihood opportunities in Burundi for returnees, which not only influences their decisions to return but also ensures their return is sustainable.

For UNHCR, this collaborative effort underscores a shared commitment to ensuring the well-being and long-term reintegration of Burundian refugees through coordinated and sustainable responses.

“Seeking durable solutions for Burundian refugees, including helping them to return home safely and restart their new lives in dignity, remains a high priority for UNHCR,” said Fatima Mohammed Cole, UNHCR’s Deputy Director for the East and Horn of Africa and Great Lakes region. “We deeply appreciate the unwavering support from donors and partners for Burundian refugees and returnees. We will continue to work closely with both the governments of Tanzania and Burundi to find durable solutions for refugees and call on the international community for their continued solidarity,” added Cole.

Since the start of the voluntary repatriation exercise in September 2017, more than 178,000 Burundian refugees have voluntarily returned to Burundi from Tanzania.

As of the end of November 2024, around 144,500 Burundians refugees are hosted in Tanzania’s Nduta and Nyarugusu camps.

Source: allafrica.com

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Somalia and Tanzania to Partner in the War Against Al-Shabaab

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Somalia and Tanzania to Partner in the War Against Al-Shabaab

The Director of the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), Abdullahi Sanbaloolshe, held an important meeting at the NISA headquarters with his counterpart, the Director of the Tanzania Intelligence and Security Service (TISS), Suleiman Abubakar Mombo, who arrived in Mogadishu on Wednesday for a two-day visit.

During the meeting, the two officials extensively discussed joint efforts to counter threats from groups like Al-Shabaab and strengthen the exchange of crucial security intelligence.

The heads of the intelligence agencies of Somalia and Tanzania, emphasizing the importance of this cooperation, signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at accelerating the role of both agencies in promoting regional stability.

Source: allafrica.com

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Tanzania: President Mohamud Meets With the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Tanzania

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Tanzania: President Mohamud Meets With the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Tanzania

The President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Mr. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, welcomed the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the United Republic of Tanzania, Mr. Mohamud Thabit Kombo, and his delegation at the Presidential Palace. The delegation is in the country on a work visit.

The President received a message and greetings from the President of Tanzania, Madam Samia Suluhu Hassan. He shared with the delegation the importance of strengthening the relationship and cooperation between the two countries, particularly highlighting the several agreements signed today in Mogadishu.

The meeting between President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and the Tanzanian delegation was attended by Somali government ministers, the Somali Ambassador to Tanzania, and senior officials from both sides.

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Mogadishu, Somalia and Tanzania Sign Historic Agreements to Boost Bilateral Ties

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In: Tanzania Foreign Investment News

Mogadishu, Somalia — In a landmark event on Thursday, Somalia and Tanzania formalized their commitment to enhanced bilateral relations through the signing of multiple agreements in Mogadishu. The pacts address cooperation in defense, tourism, health, aviation, and general diplomacy, promising a new era of collaboration between the two East African neighbors.

A critical component of the agreements includes a strategic partnership in defense. This collaboration is intended to bolster counter-terrorism efforts, enhance maritime security in the Indian Ocean, and share intelligence to combat regional threats. Both nations have faced challenges from piracy and insurgent groups, making this cooperation essential for regional peace.

The agreements highlight an initiative to promote tourism, tapping into Tanzania’s established attractions like Zanzibar and Mount Kilimanjaro, and Somalia’s emerging cultural heritage sites. Cultural exchanges are expected to foster mutual understanding and appreciation between the peoples of both countries.

In the health sector, the agreements aim to facilitate medical training, share expertise, and manage public health crises, especially after recent regional pandemics. This could involve joint research projects, sharing of medical resources, and coordinated responses to health emergencies.

One of the most anticipated aspects of the deal is the establishment of direct flights between Mogadishu and Dar es Salaam. This move not only aims to boost trade but also to simplify travel for business, tourism, and personal exchanges. The improvement in air connectivity is expected to serve as a catalyst for economic growth by reducing travel times and costs.

Beyond sector-specific agreements, there’s a broad commitment to cooperation in education, trade, and environmental conservation. This includes scholarships for students, trade facilitation, and joint efforts in climate change mitigation, acknowledging the shared environmental challenges.

The agreements are the culmination of discussions initiated during President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s visit to Dar es Salaam earlier this year. His dialogue with President Samia Suluhu Hassan was marked by a shared vision for the development and stability of East Africa.

The ceremony in Mogadishu was attended by high-ranking officials from both countries, including ministers of foreign affairs, defense, and tourism. The signing was celebrated as a step forward in regional diplomacy, highlighting a commitment to not just bilateral but also broader East African integration.

Local and international observers view these agreements as a significant stride towards economic recovery for Somalia, which has been rebuilding after decades of conflict, and for Tanzania, which seeks to expand its influence and economic partnerships in the region. The agreements are also seen as a blueprint for other African nations looking to strengthen bonds through mutual benefits.

As both countries look ahead, the focus will be on implementation, ensuring that the promise of these agreements translates into tangible benefits for their citizens. This could mean new jobs, improved security, and enhanced cultural ties, setting a positive trajectory for future collaborations in East Africa.

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Somalia and Tanzania Strengthen Growing Cooperation With Five Key MOUs

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The Federal Republic of Somalia and the United Republic of Tanzania have signed crucial agreements in Mogadishu which are aimed at strengthening the relations between the two countries.

The two countries signed five important memoranda of understanding (MOUs).

These agreements, covers wide range of sectors including, foreign affairs, health, tourism, defense, and education, highlighting the commitment of both countries to regional cooperation and sustainable development.

The event was chaired by Somalia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Saalax Ahmed Jaamac, reinforcing Somalia’s increasing role in diplomacy and Tanzania’s commitment to joint development.

The following are the key agreements signed by the two countries.

General Foreign Affairs Cooperation

The agreement signed by Somalia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Ahmed Macallin Fiqi, and Tanzania’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Maxamuud Thabit Kombo, establishes a framework for enhanced diplomatic cooperation. The agreement includes regional stability cooperation, knowledge exchange, and the coordination of international efforts to promote peace and development.

Health Cooperation

Somalia’s Minister of Health, Dr. Ali Xaaji Aadan Abubakar, and Tanzania’s Minister of Health, Mr. Godwin Oloyce Mollel, signed an agreement focused on improving the health systems in both countries. The agreement addresses the control of infectious diseases, supporting public health, and strengthening healthcare services for underserved populations.

Tourism Development

Somalia’s Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism, Mr. Da’ud Aways Jaamac, and Tanzania’s Minister of Tourism and Natural Resources, Dr. Pindi Hazara Chana, signed an agreement aimed at promoting tourism. This agreement will encourage cultural exchange, tourism marketing campaigns, and investment in showcasing the unique heritage of both countries.

Defense and Security Cooperation

Somalia’s Minister of Defense, Mr. Cabdulkadir Maxamed Nuur, and his Tanzanian counterpart officially signed an agreement to strengthen defense cooperation. The agreement focuses on capacity-building, joint training programs, and collaborative efforts to enhance security and regional stability.

Education Cooperation

Somalia and Tanzania also signed an agreement focusing on educational cooperation, which emphasizes knowledge exchange in education, scholarships, and joint programs to strengthen educational systems in both countries. The agreement aims to encourage youth engagement in knowledge-sharing and skills development, contributing to sustainable growth in both nations.

Leaders’ Remarks

Somalia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Mr. Saalax Ahmed Jaamac, praised the agreements, stating that they reflect the shared ambitions of both nations:

“These agreements are a testament to the strong relationship between Somalia and Tanzania. They lay the foundation for economic progress, regional stability, and the prosperity of our people.”

Somalia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Ahmed Macallin Fiqi, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Somalia’s commitment to regional cooperation:

“The signing of these agreements demonstrates Somalia’s dedication to regional cooperation. This partnership will bring tangible benefits to both countries and foster stronger relationships across the Horn of Africa.”

Tanzania’s esteemed Minister, Mr. Maxamuud Thabit Kombo, also expressed his optimism about the cooperation:

“Today marks an important milestone in the relationship between Somalia and Tanzania. These agreements will open doors for effective cooperation and joint development in critical areas.”

Strengthening Diplomatic Relations

The signing ceremony highlights Somalia’s growing role in regional diplomatic leadership, under the leadership of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, and Tanzania’s active role in fostering East African cooperation. These agreements reflect a shared vision for long-term development, security, and cultural exchange.

Source: allafrica.com

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European Union Bans Air Tanzania Over Safety Concerns

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European Union Bans Air Tanzania Over Safety Concerns

Kampala — The European Commission added Air Tanzania to the EU Air Safety List, banning the airline from operating within European Union airspace. This decision follows the denial of Air Tanzania’s Third Country Operator (TCO) authorization by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), citing significant safety deficiencies.

The EU Air Safety List includes airlines that fail to meet international safety standards. Commissioner Tzitzikostas emphasized the importance of passenger safety, stating: “The decision to include Air Tanzania in the EU Air Safety List underscores our unwavering commitment to ensuring the highest safety standards. We strongly urge Air Tanzania to take swift action to address these safety issues. The Commission has offered its assistance to Tanzanian authorities to enhance safety performance and achieve compliance with international aviation standards.”

Air Tanzania joins several African airlines banned from EU airspace, including carriers from Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan, and Kenya. Notable names include Congo Airways, Sudan Airways, and Kenyan carriers Silverstone Air Services and Skyward Express. The ban reflects the EU’s strict approach to aviation safety worldwide.

Source: allafrica.com

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