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| Presidents Samia Suluhu Hassan and president Félix Tshisekedi meet at Zanzibar State House, marking their diplomatic engagement on August 18, 2026. |
Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are stepping up their efforts to strengthen economic and strategic ties, with a keen eye on mining, trade, investment, and infrastructure as key areas for collaboration between the two countries.
On August 18, 2026, at the Zanzibar State House, President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan of the United Republic of Tanzania made these remarks while welcoming DRC President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, who is visiting for official discussions.
Potential for Collaboration
In their talks, President Samia emphasized the potential for Tanzania and the DRC to leverage their unique resources and economies to improve the lives of their citizens. According to President Samia, this partnership could pave the way for sharing knowledge and expertise in areas like mineral extraction, value addition, and market access—an initiative that could significantly boost the sector's impact on the economies of both nations.
"Our collaboration will allow both countries to share their knowledge and skills in mineral extraction, adding value, and accessing markets—an initiative that we believe could significantly boost the sector's impact on our economies," she added.
Trade and Investment
When it comes to trade and investment, President Samia highlighted that Tanzania and the DRC have committed to fostering an environment that simplifies the work of traders and investors. This includes cutting down on unnecessary obstacles and enhancing services in border regions. The goal is to increase the exchange of goods and services between the two nations, giving the private sector more opportunities to take advantage of the benefits that come from this partnership.
Infrastructure Development
Infrastructure was also a key topic in their talks, with President Samia pointing out that finishing the Kalemie–Manono road will play a crucial role in improving connectivity between Tanzania and the DRC. She emphasized that this infrastructure will not only facilitate the movement of people and goods but will also unlock new trade opportunities and boost economic activity along the East and Central African corridor.
Peace and Security
On top of economic discussions, the two leaders also touched on peace and security, stressing the need for cooperation to maintain stability in the African region and create a supportive environment for their citizens' development. President Samia affirmed that Tanzania will remain a steadfast partner to the DRC in efforts to build an economy that connects the people of both nations while fostering an environment that promotes trade, investment, and mutual growth.
President Tshisekedi's visit to Tanzania presents a chance to strengthen the historic ties between the two countries and lay the groundwork for broader collaboration in key strategic areas. With this step, Tanzania and the DRC have directed their efforts toward building a partnership that goes beyond diplomatic relations, aiming to connect their economies, infrastructure, trade, and investment opportunities for the benefit of citizens on both sides.