Joseph Isangura
Russia’s interest in Tanzania’s growing economy has gained momentum following the successful Tanzania-Russia Business and Investment Forum in Dar Es Salaam.
The two-day forum brought together high-level government representatives, business leaders, and investors to discuss expanded cooperation in agriculture, energy, tourism, and infrastructure.
The event was attended by Russia’s Minister for Economic Development, Maxim Reshetnikov, and his Tanzanian counterpart, Prof. Kitila Mkumbo, along with 50 Russian companies, all aiming to strengthen trade and establish joint projects. Reshetnikov highlighted that Tanzania’s stable political environment and strategic position make it a promising partner, noting that trade could feasibly double between the two nations under the right conditions. Reshetnikov expressed Russia’s eagerness to expand collaborations in energy, specifically gas production, and fertiliser supply to meet Tanzania’s agricultural needs.
A notable outcome of the forum was a strategic push to enhance air travel between Moscow, Zanzibar, and Dar es Salaam, which is expected to boost tourism. Additionally, agreements were signed to support knowledge exchange, including Russian universities offering Swahili language courses, a step expected to build cultural understanding and draw more Russian visitors to Tanzania.
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Tanzanian officials, including Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa, expressed optimism about the partnership, emphasizing that Russia’s technological expertise could significantly benefit Tanzania’s goals in infrastructure and industrialisation. Over the last five years, Russian interest in Tanzanian tourism has surged, with increasing numbers of Russian visitors choosing Tanzania’s natural attractions. Both nations see this partnership as an opportunity to fortify economic stability and mutual growth while leveraging each other’s strengths in resource management and manufacturing
