Tanzania, Norway affirm to uphold their socio-economic, diplomatic ties

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Tanzanian government has reaffirmed to uphold its strong economic, social, and diplomatic relations with Norway, noting that the partnership has significantly contributed to development across multiple sectors.

The statement was made by Finance Minister Khamis Mussa Omar during a meeting with the Norwegian Ambassador to Tanzania, Tone Tinnes, held at the Ministry of Finance sub-office in Dar es Salaam. The discussions focused on strengthening economic and development cooperation between the two countries.

Ambassador Omar said that since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1964, Norway has remained a key development partner for Tanzania, supporting numerous economic and social projects. He cited sectors that have benefited from the partnership, including energy, oil and gas, public financial management, agriculture, health, education, and environmental conservation.

He added that Norway has also supported poverty reduction initiatives through the Tanzania Social Action Fund by helping economically empower vulnerable households.

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According to Omar, since 2020, Norway has provided grants totaling 525m Norweian kronors n (approximately  136.5bn/-) to support TASAF programs aimed at improving the economic capacity of low-income households.

During the meeting, he invited the Norwegian business community and investors to explore investment opportunities in Tanzania across various sectors, particularly in strengthening agricultural value chains.

For her part, Ambassador Tinnes commended the ongoing economic and social reforms in Tanzania and affirmed Norway’s commitment to continue supporting these efforts for the mutual benefit of both countries.

She also expressed interest in seeing trade between Tanzania and Norway increase beyond current levels and pledged to encourage more Norwegian investors to explore opportunities in Tanzania.

Additionally, Tinnes said Norway is ready to collaborate with Tanzania in investments related to energy and environmental conservation, particularly in carbon trading, which she noted has significant financial potential while also contributing to environmental protection.