EU-Tanzania – A partnership for regional peace and prosperity

Tanzania has long been a beacon of stability and a force for peace in the Great Lakes region, which, despite its vast potential, continues to be plagued by recurring conflicts in parts of its territory. As the European Union is deepening its commitment with the Great Lakes Region, Tanzania plays an important role as a key partner in the quest for a sustainable peace.

My first visit to Tanzania as the EU Special Representative for the Great Lakes Region made it possible for me to engage directly with the Government of Tanzania and Tanzanian civil society. I had the privilege to meet with former President Jakaya Kikwete and the Minister of Defence, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Ambassador Mulamula

These exchanges confirmed that the long-lasting partnership between Tanzania, the EU and its Member States stands strong and continues to evolve. For me, the exchanges were also the opportunity to emphasize the international community’s recognition of Tanzania’s unfaltering support to peace operations in the region and beyond. I want to also take this opportunity to pay tribute to the Tanzanian peacekeepers who have lost their lives in the cause of peace.

The human cost of conflict in the Great Lakes Region is staggering. Over the last decades, millions of women, children and men have fled to neighbouring countries. Tanzania has generously hosted refugees in the last decades, which is strongly recognised by the international community, including the European Union. Finding durable solutions for refugees and host communities, in line with international law, will be crucial for the stability of the region.

Reinforcing the implementation of the European Union Great Lakes Strategy is a central task in my work as EU Special Representative. Supporting Africa-led peace initiatives including the Luanda and Nairobi Processes and the International Conference of the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), are key elements of this strategy. As a member of three important regional blocs – the East African Community (EAC), the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR) – Tanzania holds a unique position. Historically, its trusted leadership has helped convene parties to the negotiating table during some of the region’s most difficult crises.

Regional integration can foster economic growth, enhance cross-border cooperation and trade and create jobs – essential elements for addressing the root causes of conflict, but also to achieve Sustainable Development Goals. Through the EU Delegation in Dar es Salaam, under the leadership of Ambassador Christine Grau, the EU works with Tanzanian and regional partners like the EAC to help advancing the regional economic integration agenda. EU support is for example provided for strategic corridors in the region, to enhance the connectivity of people and goods.

Another example of regional EU support is the construction of energy transmission lines to enhance energy interconnections between the Great Lakes countries, including between Uganda and Tanzania.

To tackle challenges of a collective and interrelated nature, including conflict, violent extremism and the impacts of climate change, collaboration and joint action are more important than ever. A strong EU-Tanzania partnership in the context of the Great Lakes Region, including engagement with the private sector, youth and civil society, can help us transform some of these challenges into opportunities, as we strive to build a future characterized by mutual prosperity, equality and peace.

Johan Borgstam is the European Union Special Representative for the Great Lakes Region.Read More