Denmark reverses decision to close Dar Embassy

Denmark

DAR ES SALAAM, Nov 24 (NNN-DAILYNEWS) — THE Embassy of Denmark in Tanzania has announced that it has reversed its decision to close its offices in Dar es Salaam.

The embassy expressed its commitment to continuing the long and fruitful cooperation between the two nations.

The Danish government had in 2021 announced its intention to close its mission in Tanzania by 2024, citing the adjustment of its international presence as one of the reasons.

“This decision reflects the enduring friendship and belief in the potential of Tanzania’s growth and development, particularly in the agricultural sector. We look forward to strengthening our ties even further and continuing to work hand in hand towards shared goals,” noted Mette Nørgaard, the ambassador of Denmark in Tanzania.

The Danish envoy made these remarks in a recorded video during the 2023 Tanzania Agriculture Stakeholders Learning Event (TASLE), held in Dodoma.

The event brought together various stakeholders in the agriculture sector to discuss the best ways to add value to production and boost the country’s economy.

The Director of Crops Development in the Ministry of Agriculture, Nyasebwa Chimagu, graced the event on behalf of Minister Hussein Bashe.

According to Chimagu, Tanzania has already made significant progress in eliminating hunger in the region and the continent as a whole. The focus now is on producing food for the country and for commercial purposes globally.

This aligns with President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s statement that Tanzania is capable of feeding the continent and the world, as it is already self-sufficient in food.

Chimagu revealed that Tanzania is currently developing the Tanzania Agricultural Master Plan 2050 and finalising the implementation of the Second Five Year Development Plan 2025.

He highlighted that Tanzania is currently 124 per cent food-sufficient and that the 2020-2025 CCM manifesto aims for the country to be 130 per cent food-sufficient.

During the event, Dr Mary Shetto, a board member of Agricultural Markets Development Trust (AMDT), stated that the government is fully engaging with her organisation in preparing various policy issues. She requested that the collaboration continue for the benefit of the country.

Dr Shetto mentioned that AMDT, in collaboration with the government, is also involved in preparing a strategic plan for strategic crops, including cereals and edible oil.

The strategic plan for cereal crops has already been completed and she requested the government’s continued engagement with her organisation.

“We are ready to partner with the Ministry of Agriculture in crafting several plans and guidelines to ensure sustainable and productive agriculture in the country,” said Dr Shetto.