Swiss National Day: A future full of opportunities for Swiss-Tanzanian ties

ON August 1st, Switzerland celebrates its National Day as a moment of pride and reflection on the values that have shaped the Swiss Confederation.

This year, we mark the 734th anniversary of the founding of Switzerland, a country built on principles of unity, diversity, peace, and democracy.

The Swiss National Day commemorates the signing of the Federal Charter of 1291, an alliance between the three founding cantons – Uri, Schwyz, and Unterwalden, who came together in a pledge of mutual defence and cooperation.

This foundational act planted the seeds of what would become modern Switzerland: a country with 26 cantons, four national languages, and a strong tradition of democratic governance.

The significance of this day extends far beyond history. It reminds us of the enduring power of solidarity, dialogue and consensus-building – principles that remain central to the Swiss identity today.

Our system of direct democracy, in which citizens actively participate in shaping laws and policies through referendums and popular initiatives, is a living legacy of that 13th-century alliance. In the spirit of this tradition, the Swiss National Day is celebrated across Switzerland.

Traditional festivities include community gatherings in villages and towns to enjoy traditional folk music, open-air concerts, speeches often delivered by prominent political figures, lantern processions, bonfires and fireworks, and shared meals.

Many Swiss celebrate with a traditional brunch on a farm, featuring local cheeses and the typical 1st of August bread roll.

As we reflect on Switzerland’s past, we also look outward to the partnerships we have built across the globe. Tanzania is one of those valued partners.

Since my arrival in Dar es Salaam nearly a year ago, I have had the privilege of witnessing the depth of our relationship and the promising potential it holds for the future. Switzerland and Tanzania may seem worlds apart geographically, but we share many parallels.

Both countries are home to breathtaking natural beauty – from the Alps and lakes of Switzerland to Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti, and the Zanzibar Archipelago.

Both nations take pride in their cultural diversity, and both are committed to peace and regional cooperation. Switzerland’s engagement in Tanzania is long-standing and multi-faceted, built on over 60 years of diplomatic relations and more than 40 years of international cooperation.

Through its current cooperation programme (2021-2025), Switzerland supports Tanzania’s efforts in health, governance, and youth empowerment, with a focus on building an inclusive resilient society.

Particular attention is given to women and youth in rural areas. Whether by strengthening healthcare systems, empowering civil society, or promoting entrepreneurship in innovative sectors, our objective remains to advance sustainable, locally driven development.

Furthermore, our partnership goes beyond development.

More than 30 Swiss companies operate in Tanzania across various sectors, contributing to job creation and economic growth. In 2023, the establishment of the Switzerland–Tanzania Chamber of Commerce marked a new chapter in expanding trade between our two countries.

Switzerland supports efforts and reforms to promote a favourable business climate, which we believe will attract even greater investment in the years to come. Innovation is also a cornerstone of Switzerland’s identity.

For over 15 consecutive years, Switzerland has ranked first in the Global Innovation Index, thanks to its robust education system, research institutions and thriving startup culture.

This innovative spirit shapes not only our domestic economy but also how we approach cooperation with partners like Tanzania. We believe that investing in knowledge, technology, and entrepreneurship, especially in young people, is key to sustainable development. As we mark this year’s Swiss National Day, I would like to express my gratitude for the friendship and cooperation between our countries.

Looking ahead, Switzerland is committed to deepening its engagement in Tanzania across various sectors, guided by our Africa Strategy 2025–2028, which calls for equal partnerships rooted in respect and shared responsibility.

Whether in diplomacy, development, trade, innovation, or culture, we believe the future of Swiss–Tanzanian relations is full of opportunities. To all our friends and partners in Tanzania, asante sana for being part of this journey with us. Happy Swiss National Day!

•The writer is Ambassador of Switzerland to Tanzania