MWE Correspondent
The Ambassador of the United Republic of Tanzania to Rwanda, Dr. Habib Kambanga has officially welcomed a Tanzanian delegation to Kigali ahead of the 16th Meeting of the Joint Permanent Commission (JPC) for Cooperation, a high-level platform aimed at boosting cooperation between the two neighbouring nations.
The three-day meeting, which runs from July 24 to 26, 2025, is taking place at the Tanzanian Embassy in Kigali. It comes at a time when both countries are pushing for deeper regional integration, expanded cross-border trade, and greater collaboration in key development areas.
During the welcoming ceremony, Ambassador Kambanga praised the long-standing brotherhood between the two countries, calling the JPC “a strategic tool for reinforcing bilateral development and diplomatic relations.” He stressed the need for the delegation to explore new areas of cooperation while also ensuring full implementation of existing bilateral agreements.
“This isn’t just another diplomatic meeting,” said Kambanga. “It’s a moment to shape the future of our cooperation in ways that benefit our people.”
Also speaking at the event, Ambassador Ali Bujiku, the Director of the Africa Department at Tanzania’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, highlighted the importance of professional and patriotic preparation. He emphasized that the delegation has reviewed Tanzania’s key positions on all topics to ensure that the meeting delivers concrete, people-centered outcomes.
Key Agenda Areas at the 16th JPC
The JPC will focus on deepening collaboration in the following sectors:
- Trade and Industry
- Infrastructure and Transport
- Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
- Defense and Security
- Tourism
- Agriculture
- Energy
- Education
- Economic Development
Among the anticipated outcomes is enhanced coordination on flagship projects such as the Isaka–Kigali Standard Gauge Railway, which is seen as a game-changer in regional trade and logistics.
Also Read; Lenacapavir Marks New Chapter in HIV Prevention
This JPC comes on the heels of growing collaboration under the umbrella of the East African Community (EAC), of which both nations are active members. The EAC continues to promote a vision of regional integration, with a focus on free trade, open borders, and shared development.
Ambassador Kambanga’s diplomatic career and security background — including his past role as Deputy Director General of Tanzania’s Intelligence and Security Services — gives him unique insight into both the strategic and developmental goals of the commission
Meanwhile, President Samia Suluhu Hassan has consistently prioritized regional diplomacy and infrastructure development since taking office in 2021. Under her leadership, Tanzania has strengthened ties not only with Rwanda but also with other EAC members, pushing for sustainable economic growth across the region.
For citizens of both countries, the JPC represents more than official handshakes and photo ops. It brings real hope for improved infrastructure, expanded education opportunities, access to energy, and easier cross-border trade — especially for small business owners, farmers, and youth.
The outcomes of this year’s session are expected to include new memoranda of understanding, clear implementation roadmaps, and stronger sector-specific working groups.
