MWE Correspondent
President Samia Suluhu Hassan welcomed Finland’s President Alexander Stubb to the State House in Dar es Salaam on Wednesday, marking a historic moment in Tanzania–Finland relations.
This high-level visit not only celebrated 60 years of bilateral cooperation between the two nations but also paved the way for deeper ties in key areas like climate action, education, technology, health, and the blue economy.
During their meeting, the two leaders emphasized mutual respect and the need to build on the solid foundation laid by historical figures such as Julius Nyerere and Martti Ahtisaari—two statesmen known for championing peace and development. The occasion included a seminar in honor of Ahtisaari’s diplomatic legacy, reflecting a shared commitment to international cooperation and peace-building.
A major highlight of the visit was the formal launch of the Forestry, Land Use, and Value Chains Development (FORLAND) program. While not widely known yet, this initiative aims to improve training and sustainability in Tanzania’s forestry sector, a critical area for environmental conservation and economic development.
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President Samia used the opportunity to invite Finland to support Tanzania’s ambitious clean cooking energy strategy, which targets having 80% of Tanzanian households transition to cleaner energy sources by 2034—a move expected to significantly reduce deforestation and improve public health.
Finland’s presence in Tanzania was felt throughout the capital this week, with a high-powered delegation of lawmakers and business leaders participating in several engagements. Among them were events organized around the UNDP Innovation Week and a seminar hosted by Business Finland, focusing on investment in healthcare and sustainable infrastructure.
Tourism also took center stage, as President Samia noted the growing number of Finnish tourists choosing Tanzania as a destination. Over 5,000 Finnish nationals visited the country last year, and more than 1,200 have already arrived in the first quarter of 2025. The President extended an invitation for deeper collaboration in the tourism sector, highlighting the potential for eco-tourism and cultural exchange.
