South African Airways’ return to Dar route to spur tourism and business

Dar es Salaam. The resumption of South African Airways (SAA) flights to Tanzania marks a significant step in enhancing trade, tourism, and transport connections between the two countries, says David Kafulila, Executive Director of the Public-Private Partnership Centre.

SAA had suspended its flights five years ago due to several challenges, including liquidation. However, the airline recently announced its return to the Tanzanian skies. Speaking at the relaunch ceremony on Wednesday, Mr Kafulila described the reinstatement of the flights between Dar es Salaam and Johannesburg as a "golden opportunity" to strengthen business ties and boost tourism.

“This route will not only carry passengers but also bring opportunities,” he said, highlighting the potential for Tanzanian businesses to tap into the large South African market.

Mr Kafulila also noted that the revived partnership would open new global markets for Tanzanian exports, while improving connectivity for African travellers across the continent.

“We are grateful for the trust South African Airways has placed in Tanzania. Your return is a powerful testament to our shared faith in Africa’s future,” he added. Tanzania is positioning itself as a key hub for trade, tourism, and transport, with recent amendments to its Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Act in 2023 aimed at boosting collaboration between the public and private sectors.

These reforms streamline procurement processes, ensuring efficient project execution and reinforcing the spirit of partnership. “We welcome innovative, unsolicited proposals that promise great returns. Tanzania is committed to partnerships that drive efficiency, innovation, and long-term success,” Mr Kafulila said, emphasising the country’s willingness to collaborate with SAA to shape the future of aviation and beyond.

He added that SAA’s return aligns with Tanzania’s Vision 2050, which seeks to establish the country as a regional and global hub. Mr Kafulila also pointed out the potential for SAA to enhance Tanzania’s air cargo services, noting that South Africa’s extensive networks, combined with Tanzania’s growing production capacities, could unlock significant opportunities in freight and logistics across Africa.

“With a stronger air cargo network, both countries can provide vital connections to support growing industries and create new economic opportunities,” he said. Beyond trade and transport, Mr Kafulila highlighted the partnership as an opportunity to promote a shared passion for sports, particularly football. He referred to the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027, which will be co-hosted by Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda, as a prime occasion to showcase the nation’s commitment to sports and tourism.

Drawing inspiration from the success of Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) in Hyderabad, India, which has evolved into a hub for medical tourism through the Apollo Medical Centre, Mr Kafulila expressed confidence that Tanzania and South Africa could develop similar initiatives, particularly in healthcare. “We have the potential to transform our airports into multifaceted hubs, offering not just travel, but world-class healthcare services,” he said.

He suggested that collaboration between Tanzania’s growing healthcare sector and South Africa’s medical infrastructure could lead to groundbreaking developments in the sector. Mr Kafulila also extended his gratitude to Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, whose leadership, he said, has laid the foundation for the country’s transformation.

Looking to the future, Mr Kafulila expressed optimism that the Tanzania-South Africa partnership would continue to drive economic growth across Africa. “Together, we will unlock new opportunities for our people, businesses, and nations,” he said.