Tanzania and Rwanda Strengthen Trade Ties with $644 Billion Partnership
Dar es Salaam, May 3, 2026 — Tanzania and Rwanda have significantly expanded their economic cooperation, with bilateral trade reaching 644 billion Tanzanian shillings ($275 million), President Samia Suluhu Hassan announced today.
Speaking alongside Rwandan President Paul Kagame during a one-day working visit at State House in Dar es Salaam, President Samia highlighted the growing investments between the two nations.
Deepening Economic Ties
Since 1967, Tanzania has registered 42 Rwandan-backed projects worth $325.5 million, creating jobs for 2,225 Tanzanians. Major Tanzanian firms, including Bakhresa, Dodoma Mattresses, and Jambo Plastics, have also expanded operations into Rwanda.
“The partnership benefits both economies,” President Samia said. “We are committed to removing trade barriers to maximize the East African Community (EAC) common market and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).”
Energy Collaboration Boosts Regional Growth
A key focus of the talks was energy cooperation. Tanzania’s TANESCO and Rwanda’s Energy Group signed a deal to trade electricity, enhancing cross-border power supply.
The leaders also discussed the Rusumo Hydroelectric Project, a tri-nation initiative connecting Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi. Once completed, the dam is expected to boost energy access across East Africa.
What’s Next?
Both presidents agreed to further streamline trade policies and explore new investment opportunities. With strong economic momentum, Tanzania and Rwanda are setting a benchmark for regional collaboration in Africa.
— Reported by Nexio News
