Tanzania’s Minister for Planning and Investment, Prof. Kitila Mkumbo, announced plans to strengthen Tanzania-Russia relations to boost growth in agriculture and tourism, which will contribute to the economic development of both nations.
Following a business forum and joint commission meeting, Prof. Mkumbo detailed new agreements aimed at advancing social and economic sectors. Among the key areas highlighted were agriculture—especially fertilizer production—healthcare, renewable energy, education, and tourism.
Prof. Mkumbo emphasized the potential for Tanzania to benefit from Russia’s rapid advances in agriculture, as Russia has become a major global food supplier in recent years. He noted that Russian expertise in fertilizer production would help meet Tanzania’s agricultural needs.
In tourism, the agreements aim to establish direct flights between Moscow and Tanzanian cities Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam, facilitating easier travel for Russian tourists and businesses.
The forum, attended by officials from both countries, also marked the signing of agreements to introduce Swahili language courses at Russian universities, aimed at strengthening cultural ties. Russia’s Minister for Economic Development, Maxim Reshetnikov, expressed commitment to increasing trade and potentially establishing industries in Tanzania for local production tailored to Tanzanian needs.
According to the Bank of Tanzania, imports from Russia more than doubled between 2021 and 2023, indicating growing trade potential. The next bilateral meeting is scheduled to be held in Russia next May.
