President Samia’s Cuba Visit Delayed Due to Storm

President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s planned two-day state visit to Cuba, scheduled for November 6-8, 2024, has been postponed due to severe weather conditions preventing her aircraft from landing.

The announcement was made on November 7, 2024, by Tanzania’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, in a statement to the press.

According to Ambassador Kombo, the decision to delay the visit came after reports of adverse weather caused by Tropical Storm Rafael, which struck Cuba, particularly impacting the capital city, Havana. “This visit was postponed due to initial reports of severe weather and Storm Rafael, which forced the closure of all airports across Cuba, including the main international hub, José Martí Airport,” said Kombo. The airport closure, which lasted over 48 hours, disrupted flight schedules and hindered landings.

The minister added that although the storm has now passed, and activities are gradually returning to normal, the rescheduled dates for President Samia’s visit will be determined in the coming days. “I would like to inform the public that the storm has passed, and operations at José Martí Airport are resuming. A specific announcement on the new dates for the visit will be made soon,” Kombo stated.

The visit was anticipated to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties between Tanzania and Cuba, with a focus on healthcare collaboration, trade, and education. Tanzania and Cuba have a longstanding relationship, particularly in the medical sector, where Cuban doctors and training programs have supported healthcare initiatives in Tanzania for decades.

The delay has not dampened expectations around the visit, as both nations continue to prepare for the official meetings and discussions, which will now be held at a later date. Tanzanian officials reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing bilateral relations and shared development goals with Cuba, particularly in areas where Cuba’s expertise could support Tanzania’s national objectives.

The postponed visit will be rescheduled once the situation stabilizes and logistical arrangements are in place. This diplomatic engagement underscores the strong relationship between the two nations, reflecting a mutual commitment to regional cooperation and shared interests.