Dar es Salaam, August 22, 2024
The Minister of State in the President’s Office for Planning and Investment, Hon. Prof. Kitila Alexander Mkumbo, participated in the Tanzania-China Shared Development Forum held at the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM). This significant event brought together key stakeholders from the government, private sector, and business community. The Tanzania Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture (TCCIA) was prominently represented by its Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Oscar Kissanga.
The forum was also attended by the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Tanzania, H.E. Chen Mingjian, alongside scholars and various leaders from the public and private sectors.
During his keynote address, Prof. Mkumbo highlighted the priorities of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, which include eradicating poverty, improving people’s livelihoods, and providing quality education. He emphasized that agriculture and industrialization are central to Tanzania’s development agenda.
He further underscored the importance of Tanzania-China cooperation in boosting the economy, stating, “China is not just giving us fish, but teaching us how to fish. Our partnership with China is crucial in ensuring Tanzania’s economic and social development.”
Speaking as one of the panelists, TCCIA’s CEO, Mr. Oscar Kissanga, elaborated on how TCCIA is engaging with China through various Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at enhancing economic opportunities between the two nations. He noted that TCCIA issues Certificates of Origin, which are widely used by Tanzanian traders exporting goods to China and other countries. This collaboration, he added, is instrumental in strengthening trade between Tanzania and China.
TCCIA’s active participation in forums like this one exemplifies its commitment to fostering strong ties with the Chinese business community, ensuring that Tanzanian businesses are well-positioned to take advantage of the opportunities arising from this strategic partnership. Through ongoing engagements and collaborative initiatives, TCCIA continues to play a pivotal role in bridging the business communities of Tanzania and China, driving mutual growth and shared prosperity.
