TZ delegation in Rwanda to strengthen ties

A government delegation from Tanzania which is in Rwanda to strengthen ties between the two countries has met Local Government Minister, James Musoni. The head of the  delegation, Kagera Regional Commissioner, Col (rtd) Fabian Massawe, discussed the security situation in the region and development relations between the two countries.

Tuesday, October 18, 2011
(L-R) Protais Murayire, Mayor of Kirehe, James Musoni, Col (Rtd) Fabian Massawe, the head of the Tanzanian delegation and Dr John Musemakweli yesterday after the meeting. The New Times/Timothy Kisambira

A government delegation from Tanzania which is in Rwanda to strengthen ties between the two countries has met Local Government Minister, James Musoni.

The head of the  delegation, Kagera Regional Commissioner, Col (rtd) Fabian Massawe, discussed the security situation in the region and development relations between the two countries.

Their visit started on Friday last week and is expected to end today.

"At least for the time we have been here, we can be ambassadors of Rwanda on issues concerning peace and security,” said Massawa.

The delegation was invited by Rwanda-Tanzania Friendship Association (RWATAFA) which aims at strengthening the existing relationship between Rwanda and Tanzania through cultural and social-economic activities.

Part of their activities in Rwanda was to jointly commemorate the 12th anniversary of the death of Tanzania’s founding President, Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, that was marked on Friday.

Massawe noted that they had learnt a lot during the visit, citing government programmes such as the removal of thatched house (Nyakatsi), performance contracts (Imihigo) that have changed the social-economic status in Rwanda.

Musoni noted that for the East African Community to integrate fully there was need for regional citizens to meet and interact on a regular basis.

"It’s important to have this kind of delegation. We cannot have free movement of people and realise EAC integration unless we interact regularly,” he said.

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