Joseph Isangura
The President of the United Republic of Tanzania, H.E. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, met with the Ambassador of Singapore to Tanzania, H.E. Douglas Foo, at the State House in Dar es Salaam to discuss ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two nations.
The high-level meeting underscores a growing partnership aimed at fostering innovation, sustainable development, and socio-economic growth.
The discussions focused on strategic collaboration in technology, education, healthcare, and infrastructure development, with both sides exploring avenues for knowledge sharing, investment, and capacity building. President Samia emphasized the importance of leveraging Singapore’s expertise in smart city development, digital innovation, and vocational training to support Tanzania’s long-term development agenda.
“Tanzania is committed to building partnerships that promote innovation and skills development, while improving public services and infrastructure,” President Samia said. “Singapore’s experience in technology-driven growth and urban planning presents valuable opportunities for our country as we work toward our national development goals.”
Ambassador Foo highlighted Singapore’s interest in supporting initiatives that enhance education and healthcare systems, as well as infrastructure projects that facilitate trade and investment. “Our two countries share a vision of growth rooted in knowledge, sustainability, and technological advancement. Singapore is ready to share expertise and explore joint projects that benefit Tanzanian communities,” he noted.
Among the key areas discussed was technology cooperation, including digital governance, fintech, and e-learning platforms. Both leaders expressed interest in creating joint programs that encourage innovation hubs, research centers, and knowledge exchanges between universities and technical institutes.
In the health sector, discussions explored ways to improve medical training, enhance healthcare delivery, and leverage Singapore’s healthcare management expertise to strengthen Tanzania’s systems. Collaborative efforts could include telemedicine initiatives, training programs for healthcare professionals, and infrastructure support for hospitals and clinics.
Infrastructure development emerged as another priority, with emphasis on sustainable urban planning, transport networks, and renewable energy projects. The leaders discussed the potential for Singaporean investment in Tanzanian ports, roads, and smart city projects, which could boost trade, tourism, and economic productivity.
Education and skills development also featured prominently, with both nations considering scholarship programs, technical training, and knowledge-transfer initiatives to equip young Tanzanians with the skills needed in a rapidly evolving global economy.
Analysts say this growing partnership between Tanzania and Singapore reflects a broader trend of African nations seeking strategic cooperation with technologically advanced countries to accelerate development. By combining Singapore’s expertise with Tanzania’s vast human and natural resources, both countries aim to create sustainable solutions that enhance livelihoods and economic opportunities.
The meeting concluded with an agreement to establish a joint task force to identify specific projects and investment opportunities in the coming months, signaling a new era of collaboration between Dar es Salaam and Singapore.
