The invitation was extended by Poland to the President of Tanzania, Samia Suluhu, inviting her to undertake an official visit to Poland. Such high-level exchanges are widely seen as a strong driver of economic ties, opening opportunities for mutual investment and closer collaboration, a point highlighted by President Andrzej Duda during his remarks in Tanzania. He recalled that during World War II, several thousand Polish refugees found refuge in this African nation, underscoring the long tradition of friendship between the two countries.
This marked the first ever visit of a Polish president to Tanzania. President Duda met with President Samia Suluhu on the day of the visit, signaling the start of a broader dialogue between Warsaw and Dodoma that could deepen economic and diplomatic ties.
Investments in Tanzania
The president indicated that Polish tourism and related investments were expected to broaden in Zanzibar and the mainland, with potential expansions into new sectors of the Tanzanian economy. A sizeable group of Polish entrepreneurs expressed interest in partnerships spanning modern industry and the broader economy, including intelligent urban infrastructure, water management, and the development of a contemporary electronic banking system along with advances in information technology and communications technologies.
As noted by President Duda, several Polish firms stand as leaders within the European Union and globally within these fields, with Asseco cited as a prominent example in cybersecurity and digital services.
Polish-Tanzanian cooperation
The exchanges during the visit fostered optimism about closer cooperation in agriculture and education. One Polish company considered a role in the agricultural sector in Tanzania, while another showed interest in modern LED lighting for public spaces, including street illumination. The aim is to manufacture and deploy advanced lighting solutions locally, elevating public infrastructure in Tanzanian cities.
Discussions suggested that these offers would be reviewed seriously, with the expectation that collaboration would acquire new dimensions in time.
The Tanzanian president emphasized that the visit symbolized a sustained strengthening of cooperation and friendship between the two nations.
Poland was described as a highly important partner within the European Union and a significant source of tourism for Tanzania. The Tanzanian side also noted Poland’s contributions to various development projects across multiple industrial sectors, underscoring a mutual appreciation for a long-standing friendship and shared interests.
Development of the Polish economy
Poland, positioned as the 21st largest economy globally, is seen as a robust partner by Tanzania. The Tanzanian leadership expressed hope that Poland would continue to value Tanzania as a partner in Africa, one with which it can deepen economic ties and explore new collaborative ventures. There was also an assurance from the Polish side that the favorable economic climate at home would support an increase in Polish visitors to Tanzania and Zanzibar for leisure and business alike.
The Polish president reiterated the invitation to the Tanzanian head of state, anticipating that bilateral presidential visits would significantly strengthen economic relations by opening markets for mutual investment and collaboration.
Additionally, there was expressed willingness to organize a Polish-Tanzanian business forum during the visit, aiming to bring together business leaders from both countries to explore concrete opportunities and share perspectives on market needs and policy frameworks that support cross-border investment.
Polish refugees in Tanzania
In recounting history, it was remembered that during World War II, around 7,000 Polish refugees, often women with children, sought refuge in Tanzania. The narrative described how these families, escaping occupation in their homeland, found safety in Tanzania. The Tanzanian people welcomed them, leaving a lasting impression of gratitude, which was acknowledged during the discussions and memorialized as part of the shared historical bond between the nations.
Overall, the visit was framed as a continuing chapter in a long, cooperative relationship, built on mutual respect and a shared interest in stability, development, and regional engagement.