Germany ambassador appeals for simplified work permit procedures

DAR ES SALAAM: THE German Ambassador to Tanzania Mr Thomas Terstegen has appealed to the government to simplify the process of obtaining work permits for German nationals working in Tanzania.

The envoy said that the move will continue to strengthen the implementation of development and promotion projects between the two countries.

Ambassador Terstegen said this recently during the signing ceremony of an agreement worth 70 million Euros (195bn/-)for execution of development projects in Tanzania.

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“In order to be effective in the implementation of development projects, there should be a smooth system for obtaining work permits and visas, because sometimes German citizens are required to return to Germany while waiting for their permits.

“We are asking you to help us by simplify the process of obtaining visas and ensure smooth implementation of projects. The simplification of the process is the main criteria in our cooperation and proper implementation of various projects,” he noted.

He said the projects are partially focused on strengthening human rights and good governance.

“The government of Tanzania and German are going to implement more than seven development projects in tourism, conservation of biodiversity, health, rights of women and children and health insurance for all,” said Mr Terstegen.

On his part, the Head of East African Division, German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development and the Head of Delegation of the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany, Mr Marcus Von Essen said the cooperation between the two countries is going to promote development and the main mission is to promote the relationship between the two countries.

The Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Mr Elijah Mwandumbya said the grant will be directed to Biodiversity, Health sector, Peaceful and inclusive Societies and Good Financial Governance.

He said 9 million Euro will support Mitigation of Human-Wildlife Conflicts (HWC), 15 million Euro will help in Sustainable Development of Protected Area Ecosystems and 9 million Euro to Strengthening Reproductive Health and Empowerment of Young Women wehile 3 million Euro will be spent in Strengthening the Universal Health Insurance System in Tanzania.

Moreover, 15 million Euro will go to the introduction of Universal Health Insurance, 6 million Euro Access to justice for women and children/ Society in Action for Equality (SAFE), 10 million Euro Gender Based Violence Prevention and Response, 2 million Euro Good Financial Governance, and 1 million Euro to Studies and Expert Fund.

Mr Mwandumbya said the government will closely monitor the projects supported by German to ensure that the fund is utilised as intended.