Rwanda, Tanzania seek to improve trade ties

Tanzania is among Rwanda’s top importers at $154.93 million, behind China, whose imports were valued at $197.58 million as of 2021, according to the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda.

The value of goods and services re-exported from Rwanda to Tanzania as of 2021 stood at only $1.58 million at the end of 2021.

Speaking during a press briefing at the state house in Dar es Salaam, Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame said his government recognizes Tanzania as a very key partner, particularly with respect to trade logistics and connectivity.

“We appreciate Tanzania’s willingness to strengthen these ties for mutual benefits further, enabling our people to develop faster and our companies to compete better in global markets,” he said.

Kagame also recognized his counterpart Samia Suluhu Hassan’s role in finding a long-lasting solution to the conflicts in eastern DR Congo.

“Together with other members of the East African Community (EAC), building lasting peace and security in our region will require sustained commitment from all of us,” said Kagame, noting that peace is a key catalyst for development and unity in Africa.

Kagame was in Tanzania for a two-day visit.

President Hassan said the historical sister countries need to do more to fully exploit the wealthy resources endowed within the states and foster more trading.

 “We have agreed to improve the communication and transport networks, such as the ports of Dar es Salaam and Tanga, where Rwanda is among the major customers,” she said.

Rwanda provides about 1.5 million metric tonnes of transit cargo in the Dar port alone, according to data by the Tanzania Ports Authority.

It is the third largest customer behind Zambia and the DR Congo.

Hassan also revealed that, as part of their discussion, the two leaders agreed to launch the Regional Rusumo Falls Hydroelectric Project (RRFP), which they implement in partnership with the government of Burundi.

The $476.5 million joint project along the Rusumo River is 98.3% complete and set for completion in June this year.