Tanzania eyes development boost at Korea-Africa meet

Dar es Salaam. With the Korea-Africa Summit approaching in June, development experts and diplomats see it as a turning point for Tanzania’s development.

Held in Seoul on June 4 and 5, the summit promises to be more than just a diplomatic gathering; it is a chance to forge stronger ties and explore pathways towards shared growth, sustainability and solidarity.

Reflecting on the significance of this impending summit, Deputy Vice Chancellor-Academic at the University of Dar es Salaam, Prof Bonaventure Rutinwa, stressed on May 7, 2024, the summit’s dual nature as both a diplomatic gathering and a development discussion forum.

He asserted during a high-level meeting to chart preparations for the trip, saying, “This is a summit of its own kind. It will set a milestone for Korea and Africa’s path for shaping a future of sustainable co-prosperity as genuine partners.”

Indeed, the roots of the burgeoning partnership between Tanzania and South Korea run deep, flourishing over three decades of diplomatic relations, experts said.

Yet, beyond mere diplomatic details, South Korea has emerged as a steadfast development partner, extending its hand in various realms, from human resource capacity building to infrastructure initiatives.

Tanzania’s envoy to the Republic of Korea, Mr Togolani Mavura, underscored the transformative potential of the summit, envisioning it as a catalyst for mutual prosperity and cooperation.

He avows: “Our shared vision is to advance freedom, peace, and prosperity, recognising Africa’s vast potential and rich reserves.”

It is a vision of collaboration and shared destiny where Tanzania emerges not as a passive observer but as an active architect of its own fate, he noted.

As the summit looms on the horizon, the imperative for Tanzanian delegates to approach it with an open mind becomes ever more apparent. A lecturer at the University of Dar es Salaam Business School (UDBS), Dr Robert Suphian, highlighted key areas of learning from Korea’s experience, particularly in agriculture and the blue economy.

He said, “Korea has done remarkably well. Its progress in food production and expertise in the blue economy offer invaluable lessons for Tanzania.”

Indeed, Korea’s journey from adversity to prosperity serves as an inspiration for Tanzania. Dr Suphian said, having been faced with challenges akin to those confronting Tanzania today, Korea’s strategic focus on agriculture and innovative approaches to economic development offer tangible pathways for transformation.

“In my opinion, and from the time I spent in Korea, those who go there should have a strong focus on agriculture to gain technological experience that can help us,” he said.

Another area to learn from Korea, he said, is the sub-sector of the blue economy, which he believes Tanzania has not utilised properly because the sea is full of various fish species that have not been reached, something South Korea has excelled in.

“Through this summit, let’s see that there are many opportunities in the sea yet to be tapped into. Through the blue economy, the government can alleviate the unemployment problem by investing in modern aquaculture facilities so that fishing is not seen as just for the less fortunate in society,” he said.

Deputy Country Director of the Korea International Cooperation Agency’s (KOICA) Tanzania office, Ms Jieun Seong, underscored Korea’s commitment to supporting youth capacity building, particularly in digital innovation.

“The digital transition of a country through the capacity building of African youths holds immense potential for unlocking new opportunities and driving sustainable development,” she said.

As the stage is set for the Korea-Africa Summit, Tanzania stands at a crossroads of possibility. It is a moment not only for reflection but for decisive action—a time to embrace the lessons of the past and chart a course towards a brighter future.

The summit beckons as a forum for collaboration, innovation, and shared prosperity, where Tanzania’s voice resonates alongside its African counterparts in shaping the destiny of the continent.

In the words of the Republic of Korea’s Ambassador Kim, Sun Pyo, “The upcoming Korea-Africa Summit will drive Korea and Tanzania towards even closer cooperation.” It is a testament to the enduring bonds of friendship and the boundless potential that lies ahead.”

As delegates prepare to converge on the summit grounds, Dr Suphian said, let them carry with them the spirit of openness and collaboration.

“For in the shared journey towards prosperity, it is through collective effort and solid determination that Tanzania will seize the opportunities that lie on the horizon,” he stated.