Tuesday, July 1, 2025 – HAN
Dares Salam — Tanzania and Somalia have announced plans to resume direct flights between Dar es Salaam and Mogadishu, marking a significant step toward deepening diplomatic and economic relations between the two nations.
The announcement came during celebrations of Somalia’s 65th Independence Day, which also featured the official reopening of the Somali Embassy in Tanzania following a comprehensive renovation.
Speaking at the event, Tanzania’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Mr. Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, underlined the enduring friendship between the two countries and their shared commitment to closer cooperation. He revealed that both governments have agreed to update the bilateral air service agreement, paving the way for direct flights that will eliminate the need for stopovers in Nairobi or Addis Ababa.
“This initiative will facilitate travel and significantly boost trade, tourism, and cargo movement between our countries,” Mr. Kombo said. He also noted that recent accords aim to enhance collaboration in trade, education, security, and tourism.
A high-level Somali delegation, including six ministers and six members of parliament, attended the ceremony.
Somalia’s newly appointed Foreign Minister, Mr. Abdisalam Abdi Ali, described the reopening of the embassy as a symbol of resilience and a fresh chapter in Somalia’s international engagement. He highlighted progress under President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, particularly in rebuilding national institutions and advancing reconciliation efforts.
Mr. Ali underscored Somalia’s historic support for African liberation and peace, citing the country’s past role in mediating the Tanzania-Uganda conflict. He praised the Somali community in Tanzania as a vital bridge between the two nations and announced plans to establish a Joint Ministerial Commission and a Somalia-Tanzania Parliamentary Friendship Committee to oversee future cooperation.
Ongoing discussions between the two countries include agreements in immigration, education, aviation, fisheries, and agriculture.
Both ministers hailed Somalia’s recent admission to the East African Community (EAC) as a milestone for regional integration, expressing optimism that stronger bilateral ties will contribute to long-term partnerships benefiting both nations and the wider region.
