Tanzania to finalise ‘special status’ plans for the Diaspora

Dodoma. The government revealed its plans to finalize the granting of special status to citizens of other countries with Tanzanian roots.

This announcement was made by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, January Makamba, during the presentation of the ministry's revenue and expenditure estimates for the financial year 2024/2025 to Parliament.

Seeking approval of Sh241.069 billion from Parliament, the ministry has allocated 229.4 billion Shillings for recurrent expenditures and 11.6 billion Shillings for development projects.

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These funding requests represent a three percent decrease from the previous budget, primarily due to a 34 percent reduction in development funds.

The decision to grant special status to Tanzanians who acquired citizenship of other countries after renouncing their original citizenship follows the Government's intention expressed in the budget for the financial year 2023/2024.

Addressing Parliament, Minister Makamba emphasized the government's recognition of the contribution of citizens of Tanzanian-origin living abroad (Diaspora).

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He stated that a bill to amend the law would be presented to provide them with special status, enabling their active participation in national development projects.

"Madam Speaker, acknowledging the vital role of the diaspora, the Ministry remains committed to facilitating their involvement in national development through policy and legal measures," said Makamba.

 He added: These measures include integrating diaspora issues into the review of the 2001 New Foreign Policy and granting special status to citizens of other countries with Tanzanian origin, ensuring they enjoy specific rights and privileges.