Tanzania and Burundi have agreed to strengthen strategic cooperation in various development areas, including politics and diplomacy, security, trade, investment, infrastructure, energy, and social development. This move aims to expand economic opportunities and improve the lives of citizens in both countries. The agreement was reached during the Seventh Meeting of the Joint Permanent Commission for Cooperation (JPC) at ministerial level, held in Bujumbura, Burundi, on September 30, 2026.
The meeting, led by Tanzanian Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Dr Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, discussed measures to strengthen the implementation of cooperation agreements and identify new opportunities to further develop relations between Tanzania and Burundi. The two sides reviewed the progress of existing cooperation agreements and explored new areas of collaboration. This meeting follows the Sixth Meeting of the Joint Permanent Commission for Cooperation held in Kigoma Region in 2021.
In the area of politics and diplomacy, Tanzania and Burundi discussed strengthening cooperation in defence and security. This includes combating maritime crime on Lake Tanganyika, conducting joint operations and patrols in border areas, as well as preventing and combating human trafficking. These efforts aim to enhance regional security and stability. The two countries also explored ways to deepen their diplomatic ties and promote cooperation in international forums.
The Tanzanian delegation to the meeting included several high-ranking officials, including Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation responsible for East African Affairs, Charles Ngeleja Kadonya. Other officials were the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Labour and Investment of the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar, Mwalimu Khamis Suleiman; the Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs, Dr Franklin Rwezimula; and the Tanzanian Ambassador to Burundi, Ambassador Gelasius Gaspar Byakanwa.
The agreements reached during the meeting are expected to enhance cooperation between Tanzania and Burundi in various sectors. The two countries have a long history of cooperation, and this new chapter in their relations is expected to bring significant benefits to their citizens. The implementation of the agreements will be closely monitored to ensure that they yield tangible results.
The meeting in Bujumbura was a significant step towards deepening the relationship between Tanzania and Burundi. The two countries share a common border and have a long history of cultural and economic ties. Strengthening their cooperation is expected to have a positive impact on the region, promoting stability and economic growth.
The strengthened cooperation between Tanzania and Burundi is also expected to promote regional integration and cooperation. The two countries are part of the East African Community, a regional economic bloc that aims to promote economic integration and cooperation among its member states. The agreements reached during the meeting will contribute to the achievement of this goal.
Key points
- - Tanzania and Burundi agree to strengthen cooperation in defence and security, including combating maritime crime on Lake Tanganyika. - The two countries aim to expand economic opportunities and improve the lives of citizens through enhanced cooperation in various development areas. - The agreements were reached during the Seventh Meeting of the Joint Permanent Commission for Cooperation (JPC) at ministerial level, held in Bujumbura, Burundi, on September 30, 2026.
