Tanzania and Namibia have signed four cooperation agreements aimed at expanding bilateral ties in defence, trade, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and local government partnerships, following Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s first state visit to Tanzania since taking office.
The agreements cover defence cooperation, trade development, support for SMEs and collaboration between the Zanzibar Municipal Council and the city of Swakopmund, according to Tanzania’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The two countries also agreed to expand cooperation in strategic sectors including food security, livestock, the blue economy, natural gas and mineral resources.
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan said the agreements would help increase trade and investment, promote the exchange of expertise and strengthen development cooperation between the two nations.
The two leaders also highlighted the importance of improving connectivity, identifying direct air links between Tanzania and Namibia as a key priority to support tourism, trade and investment flows.
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The agreements build on decades of diplomatic relations between Dodoma and Windhoek, with both countries maintaining cooperation in areas linked to economic development and regional partnerships.
Despite strong political ties, trade between the two countries remains limited. Bilateral trade stood at about $4 million in 2025, according to data from the International Trade Centre, suggesting significant room for expansion.
The latest commitments are part of efforts by both governments to unlock greater economic opportunities and strengthen cooperation in sectors with growth potential.
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They follow earlier agreements signed in April 2023 covering political consultations, security cooperation and energy resources, providing a foundation for broader collaboration.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah called on government institutions and joint commissions from both countries to ensure the agreements are implemented effectively.
She urged officials to move beyond commitments and translate the deals into practical projects that create economic and social benefits for citizens in both Tanzania and Namibia.
