Qatar–Tanzania ties grow with youth jobs, new investment on rise

DAR ES SALAAM: THEY say that when two hands wash each other, both become clean. On Thursday in Dar es Salaam, that proverb gained renewed relevance as Tanzania and the State of Qatar celebrated the shared progress of a partnership that is creating jobs for young Tanzanians, opening new investment pathways and strengthening cooperation in tourism and development.

It was a day where diplomacy blended seamlessly with economic opportunity, illustrating how international friendships can translate into tangible benefits for citizens.

The Embassy of the State of Qatar in Tanzania marked Qatar’s National Day with a vibrant ceremony attended by ambassadors, diplomats, investors, senior government leaders and representatives of development organisations.

Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (Labour, Employment and Industrial Relations), Hon Deus Sangu, officiated the event as Guest of Honour.

In his remarks, he reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to widening cooperation with Qatar and deepening the relationship that has taken shape over several decades.

A four-decade journey of diplomatic growth Diplomatic relations between Tanzania and Qatar were formally established on 13 December 1982.

For many years, cooperation remained cordial but limited, with engagements occurring through non-resident diplomatic channels.

A turning point arrived in 2012 when Qatar established its embassy in Dar es Salaam, signifying a stronger political will to expand dialogue and investment.

Tanzania reciprocated in 2016 by opening its embassy in Doha, cementing a new chapter of structured bilateral engagement. Since then, the relationship has gradually shifted from simple diplomatic formality to active, multi-sector collaboration.

Today, the two nations cooperate in trade, labour mobility, tourism promotion, education, development assistance and cultural exchange.

The National Day celebration served not only as a reflection of Qatar’s national identity but also as evidence of the growing ambitions guiding the two countries.

Minister Sangu: “Relations are flourishing day by day” Speaking on behalf of the Tanzanian government, Minister Sangu emphasised that relations between the two nations are steadily strengthening.

“On the bilateral front, Tanzania and Qatar have continued to enjoy excellent relations which are increasingly flourishing day after day. The relations have been built on cooperation in a wide range of matters, both bilaterally and multilaterally, in trade, investment, tourism, education and labour,” he said.

He noted that this cooperation has produced achievements that continue to reinforce mutual trust while opening new opportunities for Tanzanians, particularly in employment and professional development.

Youth Employment: A visible outcome of cooperation One of the most concrete results of the partnership has been job creation for young Tanzanians. Minister Sangu highlighted Qatar’s national transport company, MOWASALAT, which hired 800 Tanzanians in May 2025 and an additional 1,092 in September 2025 in driver positions.

“We truly value this cooperation, as it enhances a significant sector which touches directly the lives of our people, especially the youth, who form a big part of Tanzania’s population,” he said.

These employment opportunities have been celebrated nationwide as a practical example of how strong diplomatic ties can directly benefit ordinary citizens.

Beyond offering good wages, the jobs provide international exposure and transferable skills that returning workers can use to contribute to national development.

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For many young people, the Qatar–Tanzania labour cooperation has become a vital bridge between education and long-term employment.

Tourism: A sector of untapped potential Minister Sangu also spoke about tourism prospects.

In 2024, Tanzania welcomed 496 visitors from Qatar, slightly fewer than the 523 recorded in 2023.

Although the numbers remain relatively low, he expressed optimism that improved collaboration, sustained promotional efforts and existing routes offered by Qatar Airways will help attract more tourists.

Tanzania’s famous wildlife parks, beaches, cultural heritage and natural landscapes continue to position the country as one of Africa’s premier travel destinations.

With focused marketing and enhanced bilateral cooperation, the minister believes that Qatar can become a growing source market for Tanzanian tourism.

Ambassador Al-Marekhi: Celebrating national identity and shared vision Qatar’s Ambassador to Tanzania, Fahad Rashid AlMarekhi, underlined the significance of Qatar National Day for the Qatari people.

“Celebrating Qatar National Day is a moment of profound significance. It honours the memory of the nation’s founder and deepens the sense of belonging and national unity,” he said.

He added that under the leadership of the Amir of the State of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the country continues to make substantial progress guided by the Qatar National Vision 2030.

Qatar has invested heavily in modern infrastructure, education, healthcare, scientific research, technology and economic diversification, positioning itself as a global centre of innovation.

Qatar’s expanding footprint in Africa, and Tanzania’s role Ambassador Al-Marekhi highlighted Qatar’s expanding cooperation across Africa, particularly in development and humanitarian efforts.

Tanzania remains a key partner within this regional engagement.

He acknowledged that current trade volumes between the two countries do not yet match their shared ambitions.

However, several bilateral agreements that have been finalised and are awaiting signing are expected to open new trade corridors, stimulate investment and expand cooperation in areas such as agriculture, infrastructure, tourism development and labour mobility.

Investment: A cornerstone of modern cooperation Qatari investment in Tanzania has grown steadily over recent years.

Qatari companies and development institutions have increasingly directed resources toward sectors aligned with Tanzania’s long-term national priorities, including transport, logistics, agriculture, tourism and various service industries.

These investments contribute to job creation, infrastructure expansion, technology transfer and economic stability.

Beyond capital, the partnership also includes training opportunities, student exchanges, capacity-building initiatives and humanitarian programmes.

Such initiatives strengthen human capital and forge lasting people-to-people connections essential ingredients for sustained diplomatic relationships.

A celebration that reflected shared ambition The Qatar National Day celebration in Dar es Salaam was more than a formal event; it was a demonstration of shared purpose.

It reaffirmed a partnership rooted in mutual respect and focused on unlocking opportunities for citizens of both nations.

The growing collaboration offers hope to Tanzania’s youth, confidence to investors and reassurance to both governments that their cooperation is bearing meaningful results.

With multiple agreements on the horizon, Tanzania and Qatar expect deeper engagement in strategic sectors that will support longterm development.

The road ahead With continued dialogue, strong political commitment and aligned development goals, Tanzania–Qatar relations are well positioned for further growth.

As investment expands and new employment channels emerge, the partnership is expected to deliver greater benefits for both nations.

For many Tanzanians, especially the youth, this cooperation represents empowerment and opportunity.

For investors, it represents stability and future potential. And for both governments, it symbolises a relationship driven by ambition and shared prosperity.

As the national flags waved during the celebration, one message stood out clearly: when two hands wash each other, both shine brighter.

Tanzania and Qatar, advancing together, are shaping a future defined by opportunity, investment and shared progress for their people.