MWE Correspondent
President Samia Suluhu Hassan has received one of the United Arab Emirates’ highest national honors — the Mother of the Nation Order — in recognition of her leadership in championing sustainable development and social progress in Tanzania.
The award was formally presented at a special ceremony held at the State House in Dar es Salaam on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. Representing the UAE was Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the country’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, who conveyed personal congratulations from UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
The Mother of the Nation Order is awarded to leaders whose work has significantly advanced their societies in areas such as gender equality, economic development, and international cooperation — values that have become hallmarks of President Samia’s leadership.
Speaking at the event, Sheikh Abdullah praised President Samia’s “tireless efforts in empowering women, expanding access to education, and promoting inclusive growth.” He also emphasized the strong bond between the UAE and Tanzania and expressed the Gulf nation’s commitment to furthering collaboration in key sectors.
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President Samia thanked the UAE for the honor and reaffirmed Tanzania’s readiness to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties. “This recognition is not just for me, but for all Tanzanians who believe in building a fairer, more equal society,” she said.
In addition to the award ceremony, both countries signed several agreements aimed at boosting bilateral cooperation. These include:
- A customs cooperation agreement to streamline trade procedures
- A memorandum of understanding on joint investment in Tanzania’s mining sector
- The creation of a new Business Council linking Tanzanian and UAE chambers of commerce
The ceremony and signed agreements marked an important step forward in the growing partnership between Tanzania and the UAE — one that both sides hope will yield long-term benefits in trade, infrastructure, and diplomacy.
