Why Presidential Visits Matter: President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s State Visit to India and Its Impact on Tanzania’s Economic Progress
Since assuming office, Her Excellency Dr. President Samia Suluhu Hassan has embarked on a series of international journeys aimed at bolstering Tanzania’s economic growth and diplomatic relationships. Among her notable travels, her visit to India has been particularly significant, underscoring the strengthening bond between Tanzania and this South Asian economic powerhouse.
Strengthening Historical Ties
India and Tanzania share a historical relationship that has evolved into a robust partnership encompassing trade, investment, and cultural exchange. President Samia’s visits to India have been pivotal in reinforcing these ties. During her trips, she engaged in high-level discussions with Indian leaders, aiming to attract investment and foster cooperation in various sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, and education. Notably, bilateral relations between Tanzania and India were elevated to a Strategic Partnership during President Samia’s state visit to India from October 8–11, 2023.
Tangible Economic Benefits
The Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation Minister, Hon. January Makamba, during a press conference at the State House in Dar es Salaam on June 6, 2024, emphasized the importance of President Samia’s international trips, citing the success of her visit to India in October 2023. He highlighted that the visit led to Tanzania securing a market for approximately 200,000 tons of pigeon peas in India, underscoring the tangible benefits of President Samia’s diplomatic efforts.
Enhanced Trade Relations
One of the key outcomes of these visits is increased economic collaboration. India is one of Tanzania’s largest trading partners, and the bilateral trade volume has been on a steady rise. Tanzanian exports to India primarily include minerals like gold, and precious metals, as well as agricultural products such as cashew nuts, dried leguminous vegetables, soya beans etc. Conversely, Tanzania imports pharmaceuticals, motorcycles, machinery, cane or beet sugar, and engineering goods from India. By enhancing trade relations, President Samia’s administration is working towards a balanced trade relationship that benefits both nations.
The Tanzanian newspaper, The Citizen, reported that Tanzania has become India’s largest trading partner, surpassing Nigeria. The bilateral trade value went up from $6.48 billion in 2022/23 to $7.9 billion in the year leading up to May 27, 2024. This trade growth is attributed to increased Tanzanian exports to India by 25.9% to $3.29 billion, significantly closing the trade gap between the two countries.
Investment Growth
Investment is another area where Tanzania has seen significant progress due to these diplomatic efforts. The Tanzania Investment Centre (TIC) registered 1,188 projects between March 2021 and March 2024, with an estimated capital investment of $15.041 billion. These projects generated 345,464 jobs, with 35% owned by Tanzanians, 41% by foreigners, and 24% in joint ventures.
Indian companies have shown considerable interest in investing in Tanzania’s infrastructure, mining, and manufacturing sectors. Major Indian companies like Airtel, Tata Africa Holdings Ltd, Mahindra & Mahindra, Kamal Group, and Kalpataru are already operating in Tanzania. These investments from Indian support are creating jobs, transferring technology, and boosting Tanzania’s industrial capacity. This influx of foreign direct investment (FDI) is crucial for Tanzania’s economic development, providing the capital, skills, and technology needed to accelerate growth.
Advancements in Healthcare and Education
President Samia has also focused on improving healthcare and education through collaborations with India. Indian medical expertise and technology have been instrumental in enhancing Tanzania’s healthcare system. Initiatives such as the training of Tanzanian doctors in Indian institutions and the establishment of joint healthcare facilities are set to improve the quality of medical services available to Tanzanians.
Similarly, educational partnerships have led to scholarships and exchange programs, allowing Tanzanian students to benefit from India’s advanced educational infrastructure. Over 5,000 Tanzanian nationals have been trained in educational institutions in India under the ITEC program and ICCR scholarships. Additionally, Tanzania became the preferred destination to set up the first overseas campus of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Madras, in Zanzibar, symbolizing a significant stride in educational cooperation.
Cultural Exchange and Tourism
Cultural ties between the two countries have also been strengthened under President Samia’s leadership. Cultural exchanges and joint initiatives in tourism have promoted mutual understanding and respect between the peoples of Tanzania and India. These efforts not only enhance diplomatic relations but also boost tourism, contributing to Tanzania’s economy.
Conclusion
In summary, President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s international trips, particularly to India, have significantly contributed to Tanzania’s economic progress and diplomatic stature. By fostering stronger trade ties, attracting investment, and enhancing cooperation in healthcare and education, these efforts are paving the way for sustainable economic growth and improved living standards for Tanzanians. The strengthened relationship between Tanzania and India exemplifies how strategic international engagements can yield substantial benefits for a nation’s development.