Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve, Victoria Falls Reporter
ZIMBABWE and Tanzania have taken a major step towards strengthening their economic and trade ties with the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Tanzania Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (TCCIA) and the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC).
The pact, signed on the sidelines of the 22nd Meeting of Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Africa and Nordic Countries in Victoria Falls on Friday, is expected to open a new era of private-sector-driven cooperation between the two countries, both member states of the SADC.
The MoU was inked by TCCIA president Mr Vincent Minja and ZNCC vice-president Ms Josephine Takundwa, in the presence of high-ranking officials — including Tanzanian Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Commissioner Suzan Kaganda and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Ambassador Albert Chimbindi. Their attendance underlined the importance both governments place on transforming strong diplomatic relations into practical economic partnerships.
Under the agreement, the two chambers will promote, develop and facilitate trade and investment collaboration by jointly organising trade missions, exhibitions, business forums and knowledge-exchange workshops.
They will also establish a shared framework for the exchange of critical economic data, allowing entrepreneurs, manufacturers and investors from both countries to make informed business decisions and explore joint ventures.
Speaking after the signing ceremony, Ms Takundwa said the agreement was a natural evolution of the historical solidarity between Zimbabwe and Tanzania — from political liberation to economic empowerment.
“The two nations share long-standing cordial relations which date back to the days of the liberation struggle. This historical bond should be transitioned to strengthen trade and economic cooperation between the two nations,” she said
“The agreement proactively seeks to dismantle hurdles to trade, with a specific focus on addressing non-tariff barriers. It also aims to build robust business networks that will connect entrepreneurs and investors from both countries, fostering an environment conducive to initiating joint projects.”
The six-year agreement — effective from October 2025 — includes a provision for renewal, signalling a long-term commitment to regional economic integration.
The partnership is expected to boost trade volumes, unlock new investment pipelines and stimulate job creation, particularly in key sectors such as agriculture, mining, transport, energy, and manufacturing.
