Joseph Isangura
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu engaged in high-level bilateral discussions on November 17, 2024, in Rio de Janeiro.
The meeting occurred ahead of the G20 Leaders’ Summit and focused on enhancing economic collaboration, trade, and development within the framework of their long-standing partnership.
Both leaders highlighted the strong historical and economic ties between South Africa and Tanzania, reaffirmed through the South Africa-Tanzania Bi-National Commission (BNC). This framework facilitates structured cooperation in sectors such as infrastructure, energy, agriculture, and health. The two presidents agreed to accelerate trade diversification and bolster private sector investments to deepen economic ties.
Ramaphosa underscored South Africa’s expertise in industrial development, proposing increased technological exchanges to support Tanzania’s growth in manufacturing and energy. President Samia emphasized Tanzania’s commitment to sustainable development, aligning it with the G20 summit’s focus on economic inclusivity and energy transitions.
In addition to bilateral goals, the leaders explored opportunities to enhance collaboration within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Both emphasized leveraging regional partnerships to strengthen intra-African trade and align with continental priorities under the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
The conversation also touched on pressing issues such as climate change, where Samia reiterated Tanzania’s focus on resilient agricultural practices and renewable energy development.
Read More; President Samia Reacts to Kariakoo Building Collapse
Ramaphosa acknowledged these shared goals, noting that South Africa’s upcoming G20 presidency in 2025 provides an opportunity to amplify African perspectives on global platforms.
The G20 summit serves as a pivotal moment for both nations to address challenges such as global inequality, energy access, and sustainable development. South Africa and Tanzania will advocate for stronger international support for initiatives critical to Africa’s growth, including funding for climate adaptation and clean energy.
By strengthening their bilateral partnership and fostering regional cooperation, South Africa and Tanzania are poised to play influential roles in shaping global solutions while addressing local development needs.
