Story by Abigirl Tembo, Health Editor
Zimbabwe and Tanzania are exploring ways of increasing trade and investment to match the strong political bond between the two sister nations.
This came out during a meeting between the two countries’ Vice Presidents on the sidelines of the launch of the Global Alliance to End AIDS in Children by 2030 in Dar es Salaam.
The meeting between Vice President General (Rtd) Dr Constantino Chiwenga of Zimbabwe and Dr Philip Mpango of Tanzania, saw them discuss various issues ranging from politics to agriculture, mining and trade, with the two nations agreeing on the need to boost trade volumes between the two countries.
Dr Chiwenga noted, ‘‘We need to strengthen our economies. We have to concentrate on economic diplomacy and explore ways to broaden the scope of our cooperation thereby increasing levels of trade and reciprocal investment between the two countries. As members of the African Continental Free Trade Area, we need to work together to fully exploit the great potential that exists between Zimbabwe and Tanzania in the economic sphere. Political diplomacy will never die but we also need to work on our economic diplomacy.’’
Vice President Mpango said, ‘‘On trade and investment there is room to improve. many times we trade with the west and other areas outside the continent. the current figures are not good and should improve same with the foreign direct investment we need to work on that and build each other’s economies.’’
Vice President Mpango also commended Zimbabwe for building the Museum of African Liberation, which he said will immortalise the true story of Africa.
VP Philip added, ‘‘We are happy with the action your government has taken in building the museum of African liberation. This is part of our history and having that museum in Zimbabwe, a country that fought imperialism is something which should be applauded. We would also like to thank the Zimbabwean government for the support to our Ministry of Health when we faced a shortage of gene expert cartridges you came to our aid what else can you expect from a brother.’’
Relations between Zimbabwe and Tanzania have their roots in the liberation struggle when Tanzania provided shelter and military support to Zimbabwe’s freedom fighters, which culminated in the country’s independence in 1980.
