Dates: The story behind Saudi’s annual donations to Tanzania

Dar es Salaam. In yet another demonstration of strong diplomatic and humanitarian ties, Saudi Arabia has donated 75 tonnes of dates to Tanzania through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre.

The donation ceremony took place on February 20, 2025, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation offices in Dar es Salaam.

Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation Deputy Minister Cosato Chumi received the donation on behalf of the Tanzanian government, while Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to Tanzania, Mr Yahya Al Okeish, presented it on behalf of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

The dates are slated to be distributed across Tanzania, with 50 tonnes allocated to the mainland and 25 tonnes designated for Zanzibar.

This gesture comes at a crucial time as Muslims in Tanzania prepare for the holy month of Ramadan, during which dates play a vital role in breaking the daily fast.

Minister Chumi acknowledged the donation as more than just an act of kindness but a testament to the enduring relationship between Tanzania and Saudi Arabia.

"Saudi Arabia is not just a friend of Tanzania but a true development partner. Beyond this donation of dates, the Kingdom has actively supported our health sector," he said.

In 2024, a team of Saudi medical experts provided free treatment to over 70 children from ordinary families, with 25 of them undergoing heart surgery at the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI), Mr Chumi noted.

He also revealed that Saudi Arabia has pledged to send another team of doctors and health specialists to Tanzania in May 2025 to offer further medical assistance.

For years, Saudi Arabia has been donating dates to Tanzania and several African countries, strengthening diplomatic relations while supporting communities in need.

This continuous act of giving reflects the Kingdom’s broader commitment to humanitarian aid and cultural exchange.

Ambassador Okeish said such donations are part of the Kingdom’s mission to assist countries in need globally.

"We are honoured to continue our friendship with Tanzania. Saudi Arabia remains dedicated to supporting initiatives that enhance people’s well-being, and we look forward to further collaboration," he remarked.

An expert in international relations and diplomacy, Dr Ahmed Rashid, said such donations hold deeper significance.

"These contributions go beyond food aid. They serve as a symbol of goodwill, fostering strong diplomatic and economic relations. It is a cultural bridge, reinforcing the bonds between Tanzania and Saudi Arabia while promoting shared values and cooperation," he explained.

Political analyst and economist, Ms Maria Mwakyusa echoes similar sentiments, noting that the annual donations align with Saudi Arabia’s wider foreign policy strategy in Africa.

"Saudi Arabia has a longstanding presence in Africa, supporting infrastructure, trade, and social welfare projects. These donations are part of a broader effort to maintain strategic alliances while providing much-needed humanitarian relief," she said.

As Saudi Arabia continues its tradition of donating dates across Africa, the humanitarian effort serves as a powerful diplomatic tool, reinforcing its standing as a key partner in the region.

Meanwhile, for Tanzania, such collaborations provide both tangible and symbolic value, deepening a relationship that has stood the test of time.