With the growing significance of its diaspora community, Tanzania has announced plans to grant special status to its diaspora inhabitants by the end of 2023. This decision aims to recognize their importance and address their desires to visit the nation, own land, and access financial services. The Tanzanian government has taken into account the recommendations provided by the diaspora, ensuring their voices and needs are considered in the process.
Speaking before the Parliament, Stergomena Tax, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, expressed the government’s commitment to granting special status to Tanzanians living abroad. The proposed framework acknowledges the diaspora’s desire to connect with their home country and contribute to its development. Minister Tax emphasized the need for the diaspora to play a more active role in Tanzania’s economic endeavors.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation conducted extensive consultations with various stakeholders, both within and outside the country, including the diaspora, to gather their views on the special status arrangement. Dr. Tax highlighted that the 10 recommendations put forth by the diaspora have been carefully considered and will be incorporated into the final framework. However, she clarified that the special status does not imply divine rights for the diaspora.
While there is an ongoing discussion regarding dual citizenship in Tanzania and elsewhere, Dr. Tax stressed the importance of establishing a proper national and international framework before granting dual citizenship. The government aims to ensure that all Tanzanians living abroad have equal access to the opportunities presented by the special status, without anyone missing out due to the absence of appropriate regulations.
Remittances and investments from the Tanzanian diaspora have seen a significant increase, indicating their growing contribution to the nation’s social and economic sectors. In 2022 alone, approximately Sh4.4 billion was invested in homes and plots, surpassing the Sh2.2 billion invested in the previous year. Noteworthy contributions came from entities such as the National Housing Corporation, Orange Tanzania Ltd (Hamidu City Park), and KC Land Development Plan Consultant Ltd.
Dr. Stergomena Tax, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, stated, “The ministry compiled the views of various stakeholders inside and outside the country, including from the diaspora. The views have classified issues that should be considered in the special status arrangement. The government recognizes the importance of Tanzanians living abroad and will finish the process of granting them special status by December.”
Furthermore, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation’s evaluation of its foreign affairs policy has led to the identification of new areas that need to be covered. The ministry aims to enhance economic diplomacy and adopt new strategies to align with the current and future environments.
The Parliament has approved a budget of Sh247.9 billion for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation for the 2023–2024 fiscal year. This represents a substantial increase compared to the Sh208.3 billion allocated for the current fiscal year, highlighting the government’s commitment to strengthening its engagement with the diaspora and advancing its foreign affairs agenda.
Tanzania’s decision to grant special status to its diaspora inhabitants reflects a progressive approach that recognizes the importance of harnessing the potential of its citizens living abroad. By providing a platform for the diaspora to actively participate in the nation’s development, Tanzania aims to foster stronger ties with its global community and harness their valuable contributions for the benefit of the country as a whole.
