ARUSHA: TANZANIA and Ghana are exploring appropriate means of implementing their industrialization strategies, including adding value to their strategic crops such as cotton for Tanzania, and cocoa for Ghana, while both nations strengthen the processing of their minerals.
This was revealed today, March 2, 2026, when the Tanzanian President, Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, held official talks with the Ghanaian President, John Mahama as a joint move to strengthen strategic cooperation between the two countries, particularly in economic reforms, youth employment, and the development of the digital economy.
The discussions took place at the State House in Arusha, where the two leaders explored opportunities and strategies for adding value to domestic resources instead of continuing to export raw materials to international markets.
During the talks, President Mahama outlined measures being implemented by Ghana to strengthen oversight of the mining and cocoa sectors. He noted that the objective is to increase domestic revenue, promote local processing, and reduce reliance on the export of raw commodities. He emphasized that these reforms have enabled Ghana to improve revenue collection and enhance the contribution of those sectors to the national economy.
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For her part, President Samia said Tanzania is accelerating the implementation of its industrialization strategy, including adding value to strategic crops such as cotton and strengthening mineral processing. She stated that Tanzania has an opportunity to learn from Ghana’s experience in natural resource management and in designing policies that stimulate domestic economic growth.
On youth employment, the two leaders agreed to enhance cooperation in skills development, innovation, and entrepreneurship. They underscored the importance of creating a favorable investment environment that will stimulate private sector growth and generate sustainable jobs for young people in both countries.
Regarding the digital economy, President Samia reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to strengthening digital financial systems and cybersecurity as part of its broader strategy to build a competitive and inclusive economy. She said the government continues to invest in ICT infrastructure and youth innovation, noting that Ghana’s experience in financial technology (fintech) and the protection of digital infrastructure presents a key area for collaboration to expand financial inclusion and improve the efficiency of financial services.
