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| The President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Her Excellency Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, held talks with her guest, the President of the Republic of Namibia, Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, at the State House in Dar es Salaam City, on June 20, 2026. |
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has emphasized that the relationship between Tanzania and Namibia is built on a historical foundation forged during the liberation struggles of Southern Africa. Both nations are now committed to turning this friendship into a productive economic partnership.
President Samia made these remarks during a joint press conference with Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, who is on her first official state visit to Tanzania since being elected as Namibia’s head of state. President Samia described the visit as a symbol of the continued strengthening of bilateral relations.
A Shared Liberation History
President Samia noted that Tanzania and Namibia share a unique history due to Tanzania’s role in supporting Namibia’s independence struggle. During the liberation movements, Tanzania was at the forefront through the Organization of African Unity (OAU) Liberation Committee, assisting Southern African nations in gaining freedom.
She added that the relationship was further cemented by the founding leaders of both countries—the late Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere of Tanzania and the late Dr. Sam Nujoma of Namibia—who laid the groundwork for the enduring friendship and cooperation that exists today.
From Political Ties to Economic Gains
Despite this strong historical bond, President Samia acknowledged that both countries still have work ahead to ensure that political and 'diplomatic cooperation' translates into tangible economic development. She pointed out that trade between Tanzania and Namibia remains below potential and requires strengthening.
During their talks, the two leaders agreed to boost trade and investment, and to enhance cooperation in strategic sectors such as oil and gas, mining, security, the blue economy, agriculture, livestock, and tourism.
Focus on the Blue Economy and Energy
President Samia explained that Tanzania and Namibia have significant opportunities in the 'blue economy ' due to their abundant marine resources. Both nations will exchange expertise and leverage these opportunities to spur economic growth and create jobs for their citizens.
In the oil and gas sector, the presidents agreed to enhance collaboration through their national companies by sharing knowledge, technology, and capacity-building to maximize the benefits of these resources.
Strengthening Livestock and Aviation Ties
The leaders also discussed boosting cooperation in livestock, a sector where Namibia has made significant strides and Tanzania ranks among Africa’s top livestock-holding nations. They explored the introduction of direct flights between the two countries to facilitate trade and tourism.
Namibia’s Gratitude and Vision
Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, for her part, stated that Tanzania has been a home to Namibia during its liberation struggle. She expressed gratitude for Tanzania’s substantial political, diplomatic, and logistical support during the fight for independence.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah said her visit aims to transform long-standing political solidarity into practical cooperation in economy, trade, and investment. She stressed the importance of removing administrative barriers to ease the flow of goods and capital between the two nations.
Institutionalizing Cooperation
Both leaders agreed to ensure that their agreements are implemented through bilateral cooperation frameworks, particularly the Joint Commission of Cooperation. Ministers and experts have been tasked with accelerating the execution of these plans.
To cement the renewed partnership, the two presidents witnessed the signing of four cooperation agreements in areas including defense, trade and investment, and the promotion of small and medium-sized industries. These agreements are expected to open new opportunities for the citizens of both Tanzania and Namibia.