'Tanzania is open for UK investors' - President

By Osoro Nyawangah, DAR ES SALAAM Tanzania

The President of Tanzania, Samia Hassan, on Tuesday May 11 reiterated her willingness to open the country's doors wide for investors from the United Kingdom.

According to the statement issued by the Directorate of Presidential Communications, the President made the pledge during high-level meeting with the visiting UK Minister for Africa, James Duddridge at State House in the commercial city of Dar es Salaam.

President Hassan said the visit by Duddridge will cement long standing relations between the two countries.

"My administration is working very hard to make the investment atmosphere in the East African nation more friendly and attractive." She said.

The President further appealed to the UK government to continue supporting Tanzania in improving delivery of social services, including health and education.

For his part, Duddridge assured Tanzania of continued cooperation, saying more UK companies will invest in the country.

He said the UK is one of the largest foreign direct investors in Tanzania and a strong supporter of East African trade growth. 

Duddridge held talks with President Hassan at the start of a two-day official visit to Tanzania before meeting with the Minister for Industry and Trade, Kitila Mkumbo and the Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office dealing with Investment Geoffrey Mwambe to explore prospects for expanding and deepening business links.

"I had good discussion with President Hassan and Foreign Minister, Liberates Mulamula on investment, regional security, climate change and global health challenges. All these impact us all, I welcome the President’s commitment to international cooperation." He told Journalists.

On May 12, Duddridge is scheduled to travel to Zanzibar where he is expected to meet the Isles President, Hussein Mwinyi and first Vice President Othman Masoud. - Africa