MWE Correspondent
Tanzania’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, has called for Africa and Nordic countries to ensure their cooperation produces real and measurable benefits for ordinary citizens, not just words on paper.
Speaking at the 22nd Meeting of Foreign Ministers between African and Nordic nations, taking place in Victoria Falls from October 2–3, 2025, Kombo highlighted the importance of moving beyond declarations and implementing strategies that lead to practical outcomes in areas such as trade, investment, technology, and clean energy.
“This partnership must go beyond documents. Our task is to turn opportunities into action that directly benefits people on both sides,” Kombo said, underlining Tanzania’s readiness to work with Nordic partners on strategic projects with immediate impact.
The conference, held under the theme “Innovation for Results: Using Technology and Collaboration for Future-Ready Societies,” brings together African and Nordic foreign ministers, diplomats, business leaders, and innovators to strengthen cooperation in diplomacy, economics, and social development.
Tanzania’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, CP Suzan Kaganda, encouraged participants to use the platform to deepen economic diplomacy across sectors such as tourism, agriculture, education, and defense. Similarly, Tanzania’s Ambassador to Sweden, Mobhare Matinyi, emphasized that the Nordic region provides vast opportunities for investment and mutually beneficial partnerships.
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Adding to the discussion, Seifu Kamtunda, Acting Director of the Department of Europe and America at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, explained that the gathering is not just about policy talks. Alongside the ministerial sessions, a business forum is running to connect private companies, academic institutions, and young innovators, with the aim of driving new ventures and market opportunities.
Zimbabwe, as the host nation, has positioned itself as a key hub for the dialogue, particularly in creating linkages between African industries and Nordic technologies. Organizers stress that this year’s meeting should mark a turning point, shifting from aid-centered relations to trade-driven cooperation that reflects today’s global realities.
For Africa, such engagement offers a chance to accelerate sustainable growth, boost employment, and harness digital and green technologies. For Nordic countries, the partnership opens access to dynamic and fast-growing markets, while also supporting their own commitments to sustainability and climate resilience.
Analysts note, however, that the true measure of success will be in execution. If implemented effectively, the decisions taken in Victoria Falls could set the stage for stronger ties, increased investment, and lasting socio-economic benefits for both regions.
