DAR ES SALAAM, Oct 31 (NNN-DAILYNEWS) — TANZANIA’S Minister for Planning and Investment, Prof Kitila Mkumbo, has announced that the strong partnership between Tanzania and Russia is set to significantly enhance growth in agriculture and tourism, contributing to the economic development of both countries.
During a press conference following a business forum and joint commission meeting, Prof Mkumbo detailed that the two nations discussed and signed agreements on five key issues aimed at improving social and economic sectors.
The meeting brought together Prof Mkumbo and Russia’s Minister for Economic Development, Maxim Reshetnkov, who oversaw the signing of the agreements.
“Among the key areas we addressed were agriculture, specifically fertiliser production; healthcare, including access to medicines and vaccines; renewable energy production, particularly gas; education, focusing on teaching the Swahili language in Russia and tourism development,” stated Prof Mkumbo.
He noted that Russia has become an important global player in agriculture, quickly establishing itself as a major food supplier.
“Tanzania recognises this achievement and sees a significant opportunity to benefit from this agricultural partnership,” he remarked.
“In just two decades, Russia has made great strides in agriculture and is now a key player in feeding the world.” Prof Mkumbo highlighted that Russia’s expertise in fertiliser production is expected to address Tanzania’s substantial demands in this area.
Regarding tourism, he mentioned that the agreements anticipate the launch of direct flights from Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam to Moscow, facilitating greater movement of Russian tourists and products to Tanzania.
“This meeting included over 120 business representatives from Russia and we plan to establish direct routes between Moscow and Zanzibar, as well as Dar es Salaam,” he noted.
The meeting was attended by Tanzanian Ambassador to Russia Fredrick Kibuta, Russian Ambassador to Tanzania Andrey Avetisyan, permanent secretaries from various ministries and other officials.
Additionally, the ministers agreed to introduce Swahili language courses in Russian universities, a move they believe will strengthen cultural ties and boost interest in tourism.
For his part, Minister Reshetnikov emphasised that the agreements aim to enhance trade between the two countries.
“Through these agreements, we will strengthen trade between Tanzania and Russia,” he stated.
He added that Russia is eager to establish industries in Tanzania for the production of goods for local consumption. “Our goal is not only to supply fertilisers but to provide those tailored specifically to Tanzania’s needs and soil conditions,” he explained.
According to the latest annual report from the Bank of Tanzania, imports from Russia more than doubled from 303.2bn/- in 2021/22 to 778.4bn/- in 2022/23, while exports increased slightly by 0.6 per cent from 16.5bn/- to 16.6bn/-.
The two ministers agreed to hold another bilateral meeting in Russia next May.
Meanwhile, a representative from the Russian company Fesco expressed satisfaction with the business interactions, noting the opportunity to meet Tanzanian port infrastructure directors.
“Dar es Salaam is the most efficient port in Africa, and trade between Russia and Tanzania is set to be mutually beneficial,” the representative stated. Russian exports to Tanzania include metals, machinery and fertilisers, while Tanzania exports coffee, tea and cashew nuts to Russia. — NNN-DAILYNEWS
