Tanzania bids farewell to US envoy, vows to strengthen bilateral ties

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania has pledged continued cooperation with the United States and reiterated its commitment to working closely with the incoming US ambassador to further strengthen bilateral ties.

Tanzania promised to continue exploring new areas of collaboration that will benefit both nations.

The country’s commitment was shared on Friday, January 10, 2025, by the Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Mr Mahmoud Kombo, when bidding farewell to the US Ambassador to Tanzania, Michael Battle, who is set to leave the country soon.

Mr Kombo expressed gratitude for the ambassador's efforts in deepening relations between the two countries.

He highlighted the strong partnership that has existed between Tanzania and the US, noting the ambassador's work in fostering collaboration across various sectors, including health, education, security, and economic development.

“We have enjoyed a fruitful relationship with the U.S. Embassy in the country during Ambassador Battle’s tenure, and we look forward to extending similar cooperation from his successor. There are numerous opportunities for us to grow this partnership further,” said Mr Kombo.

The minister also extended condolences on behalf of the Tanzanian government for the passing of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, who died on December 29, 2024.

Retired President Carter is remembered for his legacy of promoting peace and human rights around the world, including his contributions to African development.

In his farewell remarks, Mr Battle praised President Samia Suluhu Hassan for her leadership in advancing Tanzania’s development agenda and her openness to international cooperation.

“President Samia has demonstrated a strong commitment to progress and partnership, and I am confident that the relationship between our two countries will continue to thrive under her leadership,” he said.

Mr Battle also called on the Tanzanian government to provide continued support to the US Embassy’s Charge d’Affaires, who will be acting as ambassador until a new appointment is made.

“I trust that the strong relationship we have built will endure, and I urge the Tanzanian government to maintain close ties with the embassy as we transition to new leadership,” he added.

The partnership between Tanzania and the U.S. has been pivotal in several critical areas, particularly in health, infrastructure, and investment.

Through the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), the U.S. has provided extensive support to Tanzania’s health sector, helping to combat HIV/AIDS and strengthen the country’s healthcare system.

Additionally, the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) has been instrumental in funding major infrastructure projects in Tanzania, including improvements in roads, power supply, and water systems.

These projects have significantly contributed to the country’s socio-economic development.

In recent years, the U.S. has also been a key partner in promoting the growth of Tanzania’s private sector, with investments in industries such as agriculture, renewable energy, and technology.

American companies have shown increasing interest in exploring opportunities in Tanzania, particularly in sectors that align with the country’s development priorities.

Security cooperation is another important aspect of the bilateral relationship.

The U.S. has supported Tanzania’s efforts to enhance regional security through training programmes and joint initiatives aimed at combating terrorism and transnational crime.

Looking ahead, both countries have expressed a commitment to deepening their partnership in new areas, including clean energy, digital transformation, and youth empowerment.

The U.S. government has indicated its willingness to support Tanzania’s clean energy transition through investments in renewable energy projects and capacity-building initiatives.

Ambassador Battle’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter in the U.S.-Tanzania relationship, but both sides remain optimistic about the future.

“Our shared goals of promoting peace, prosperity, and sustainable development will continue to guide our partnership,” said Kombo.