Dr. Philip Mpango, Tanzanian Minister of Finance and Planning, heralds a new era of collaboration between Tanzania and Saudi Arabia in the lucrative oil, gas, and mineral sectors. In a high-profile meeting with Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to Tanzania, Yahya Ahmed Okeish, on Tuesday, Dr. Mpango underscored the potential for synergy between the two nations, leveraging Saudi Arabia’s expertise in the energy domain.
Tanzania, a key player in East Africa's oil and gas race, aims to fortify its global standing in this sector. Dr. Mpango stressed the urgency of joint efforts to develop human resources and optimize Tanzania's rich resource base. The minister extended an inviting hand to Saudi Arabia, proposing collaboration in Tanzania's critical mineral sector, essential for spearheading the clean energy transition.
Highlighting Tanzania's vast mineral reserves comprising graphite, copper, nickel, lithium, and cobalt, Dr. Mpango emphasized their pivotal role in combating climate change. The meeting, held at Chamwino State House in Dodoma, served as a testament to the strengthening of bilateral relations between the nations, fostering collaboration on various international platforms.
Dr. Mpango commended Saudi Arabia for its contributions through the Saudi Development Fund and the King Salman Centre for Humanitarian Aid, stressing the imperative of bolstering trade and investment ties. He urged Ambassador Okeish to facilitate increased Saudi investments in Tanzania and attract a higher influx of tourists from the Kingdom.
Acknowledging Saudi Arabia’s honor in hosting the 2030 World Expo, the Vice President hailed the direct flights linking the nations, solidifying their diplomatic and economic bonds.
Ambassador Yahya Ahmed Okeish echoed sentiments of historical and personal ties anchoring the Saudi-Tanzanian relationship, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s eagerness to foster partnerships, particularly with Tanzania. The Ambassador credited President Samia Suluhu Hassan's visit to Saudi Arabia for the announcement of 500 nursing positions for Tanzanians in the Kingdom, marking a milestone in collaboration.
Expressing Saudi Arabia's appreciation for the African workforce, Ambassador Okeish outlined plans to maximize this potential in collaboration with Tanzania. Additionally, Saudi Arabia aims to aid Tanzania's clean energy initiatives, aligning with President Samia’s climate change strategy.
Trade relations between the two countries witnessed a turnover ranging from 10-15 million US dollars between 2020 and 2021, with Saudi Arabia importing commodities such as fertilizers and petrochemicals. The Kingdom has undertaken several developmental projects in Tanzania, spanning education, infrastructure, healthcare, water, and information technology.
Saudi Arabia's designation of Tanzania as a priority partner for trade, investment, and cooperation in Africa, dating back to early 2016, signifies the enduring commitment to strengthening ties between these nations.