In a bid to enhance trade and economic ties between Tanzania and Malawi, President Samia Suluhu Hassan has urged for the elimination of trade barriers at the border shared by the two East African nations. The presidency revealed this development in a statement released on Friday, following the conclusion of President Hassan’s three-day state visit to Malawi.
During her visit, President Hassan emphasised the importance of seamless trade between Tanzania and Malawi and called for the facilitation of unrestricted business activities along the border. The Directorate of Presidential Communications conveyed her sentiments, quoting her as saying, “People between the two countries should do business along the border without barriers.”
To ensure the implementation of this vision, President Hassan and Malawian President Lazarus Chakwera assigned their respective trade ministers the responsibility of devising a plan to remove existing trade barriers. By collaborating on this front, Tanzania and Malawi aim to stimulate commerce, encourage cross-border investments, and foster mutual economic growth.
President Hassan also expressed appreciation for Malawi’s efforts in incorporating the Kiswahili language into their educational curriculum. Noting the significance of Kiswahili as a unifying language for Africa, she commended Malawi for taking steps to teach it in schools. By promoting the use of Kiswahili, both nations believe it can play a crucial role in fostering stronger cultural and linguistic ties across the continent.
Additionally, the statement revealed that President Hassan witnessed the signing of agreements between Tanzania and Malawi in the field of information and communications technology (ICT). These agreements reflect the commitment of both countries to collaborate and share expertise in the ICT sector, with the aim of advancing technological development and connectivity.
The call to remove trade barriers and the signing of ICT agreements mark significant milestones in the growing bilateral relations between Tanzania and Malawi. By prioritizing open trade and strengthening cooperation in key sectors, both nations aspire to unlock new economic opportunities, promote regional integration, and contribute to the overall prosperity of East Africa.
As Tanzania and Malawi embark on this path of closer collaboration, stakeholders from various sectors eagerly anticipate the positive impact these initiatives will have on cross-border trade, investment, and regional development.
