After a period of isolation under former President John Magufuli, Tanzania is reemerging on the international stage, aiming to reclaim its legacy as a leader in economic and diplomatic affairs. The leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who assumed office in 2021, has initiated a comprehensive review of the country’s foreign policy—the first in over two decades. This reassessment is an opportunity to position Tanzania as a regional powerhouse and global contributor. Tanzania's growing economic influence, bolstered by large-scale cross-border infrastructure projects in energy and railways, necessitates active engagement in regional integration and commitments to peacekeeping and conflict mediation. The country is already diversifying its trade and investment partnerships by fostering relationships with nations such as Indonesia and Vietnam, strengthening ties with Gulf states, and mending longstanding partnerships with China, India, and Western countries. While progress is evident, tangible steps are still required to solidify Tanzania's reengagement with multilateral platforms and global initiatives. For example, the country has yet to rejoin frameworks it withdrew from during Magufuli's tenure, such as the Open Government Partnership. A renewed foreign policy should aim to address global challenges like climate change, critical mineral management, and peacebuilding, areas where Tanzania could play a leading role. However, several challenges persist. Deep-seated skepticism toward foreign investments, limited coordination between economic and diplomatic goals, and insufficient governance reforms hinder Tanzania’s ability to maximize external partnerships. The suppression of public discourse, particularly around controversial projects like Gulf-backed port investments, exacerbates these issues and risks undermining progress.
To prevent a slide back into isolationism, Tanzania needs a bold, forward-thinking strategy. The foreign policy review should prioritize assertive non-alignment and proactive engagement with both regional and global stakeholders. Key recommendations for Tanzanian policymakers include:
- Enhance Regional Economic Integration
Tanzania should capitalize on its potential to become East Africa's largest economy by championing cross-border infrastructure projects and strengthening regional ties. - Strengthen Leadership in Conflict Resolution
Building on its history of mediation, Tanzania could use Arusha and Zanzibar as hubs for peace talks and expand its influence on broader regional security issues, including maritime safety. - Recommit to Multilateral Frameworks
Rejoining global governance initiatives, such as the Open Government Partnership, and implementing legal safeguards to prevent future withdrawals would demonstrate Tanzania’s renewed commitment to international cooperation. - Learn from Peer Economies
Deepening relations with middle-income countries like Vietnam, Indonesia, and Central and Eastern European nations could provide valuable insights and strengthen Tanzania’s economic diplomacy. - Embrace Leadership in South–South Cooperation
Seeking a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council would underline Tanzania’s peacekeeping contributions and its advocacy for greater African representation in global governance. - Ensure Transparency and Open Dialogue
Public debate around foreign investment deals, such as those involving Gulf states, should be encouraged to build trust and attract external partners for critical projects. - Tackle Climate and Environmental Challenges Meaningfully
A strategic framework for addressing climate change and managing critical minerals should be central to Tanzania’s foreign policy, ensuring alignment with its broader economic goals. - Define a Distinct Strategic Vision
The new policy must mark a clear break from the past, emphasizing proactive engagement rather than cautious diplomacy. A strong, updated framework will signal a new era in Tanzania’s international relations.
The new policy must mark a clear break from the past, emphasizing proactive engagement rather than cautious diplomacy. A strong, updated framework will signal a new era in Tanzania’s international relations. Tanzania stands at a crossroads. With decisive action and a visionary approach, the nation can transform its foreign policy into a tool for economic growth and global leadership, ensuring its place as a key player on the international stage.