Joseph Isangura
The Government of Tanzania has pledged to deepen economic ties with the City of Dallas, Texas, opening new doors for trade, investment, and diplomatic engagement across borders.
During an official visit to Dar es Salaam, Eric Johnson, the Mayor of Dallas, met with Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation. The two leaders discussed ways to facilitate collaboration between the business communities of Dallas and Tanzania, with a strong emphasis on innovation and inclusivity.
“This engagement is about more than economic diplomacy,” Ambassador Kombo said. “It’s a step toward building lasting people-to-people relations that empower communities.”
Mayor Johnson stated that the visit was designed to build a personal connection with Tanzanian leaders while exploring the country’s potential as a strategic partner in Africa. His focus, he said, is to cultivate grassroots economic relationships by linking small and mid-sized enterprises in Dallas with their Tanzanian counterparts.
The meeting reflects a new model of urban diplomacy—where global cities take an active role in shaping international relations. Through initiatives such as public-private partnerships, both sides aim to foster cooperation in sectors including:
“We’re moving from high-level government engagement to more localized, dynamic economic collaboration,” Johnson said.
As one of the fastest-growing economies in East Africa, Tanzania offers access to regional markets through the East African Community (EAC) and hosts vast potential in agriculture, natural resources, and tourism.
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The country has recently prioritized economic diversification and private sector development, positioning itself as a welcoming hub for foreign direct investment. Dallas, with its thriving business ecosystem and status as a tech hub, sees Tanzania as a natural partner for south-south cooperation and innovation exchange.
Mayor Johnson and Ambassador Kombo agreed to form a bilateral task force that will include government officials, business leaders, and academic representatives to explore tangible areas of cooperation. This group will facilitate:
- Trade missions and business expos
- Knowledge-sharing initiatives
- Skills development programs
- Digital entrepreneurship hubs
“Our vision is to create a corridor of opportunity where young people, entrepreneurs, and professionals can thrive on both continents,” Kombo said.
The Dallas delegation also visited key institutions in Tanzania to gain a better understanding of local dynamics, regulatory frameworks, and areas for investment growth.
This growing relationship between Dallas and Tanzania underscores the rising influence of city diplomacy in shaping global affairs. Cities are now engaging as sub-national actors to drive progress in climate change, innovation, urban development, and economic mobility.
“Tanzania is open for business—and our cities are ready to connect with the world,” Kombo affirmed.
