Rwanda and Tanzania have taken a decisive step to bolster regional trade by formalizing the establishment of a Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) liaison office in Kigali, a move expected to significantly streamline cargo logistics and enhance bilateral commerce.
The agreement was signed during the 16th Joint Permanent Commission (JPC) meeting held in Kigali from July 24 to 26, 2025. Although the liaison office has been operational since 2018, the new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) renews and strengthens its mandate, underscoring both nations’ commitment to deepening economic integration.
The Kigali-based TPA office will play a pivotal role in facilitating the clearance of goods transported through Tanzania’s Port of Dar es Salaam, which handles the vast majority of Rwanda’s maritime trade.
The new agreement is designed to improve logistics efficiency, reduce bureaucratic delays, and promote seamless communication between port authorities and Rwandan importers.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe, emphasized the strategic value of the partnership.
“We value our partnership with Tanzania, which facilitates over 70% of our maritime cargo through the Port of Dar es Salaam. Establishing the TPA liaison office in Kigali will streamline logistics, reduce bottlenecks, and enhance trade efficiency between our two countries.”
The move reflects broader efforts by both governments to reinforce economic ties and foster mutual growth. Rwanda relies heavily on Tanzania for access to global markets, with Tanzania accounting for an average of 80% of Rwanda’s imports over the past three years.
Tanzania’s Foreign Minister, Amb. Thabit Mhamoud Kombo, also hailed the agreement, highlighting Rwanda’s critical role in the regional logistics network. “If over most of Rwandan goods transit through Tanzania, it clearly shows how important Rwanda is to our ports,” he noted.
Alongside the port cooperation deal, the two countries also signed another MoU focused on agricultural development. Discussions further explored areas of collaboration in energy, tourism, and environmental protection.
Both nations reaffirmed their shared goal of deepening regional integration through projects like the Kigali-Isaka Standard Gauge Railway, as they continue to invest in infrastructure and partnerships that drive cross-border trade and development.
