PRESIDENT Samia Suluhu Hassan joined the world’s most influential leaders this week at the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro, following an invitation from Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. This invitation not only underscores Tanzania’s expanding global role but also symbolizes the strides the country is making under President Samia’s leadership, according to local experts.

As Tanzania’s first female president, her presence at the summit will bring attention to the nation’s development journey and highlight its unique perspective on critical global issues.

The G20, which unites the world’s largest economies, was formed to foster global economic cooperation and broaden the dialogue around pressing issues like climate change, financial stability, trade, and sustainable development. Unlike the more exclusive G7, the G20 includes both developed and emerging economies, creating a space for a more diverse range of voices.

Bravious Kahyoza, an economist from the University of Dar es Salaam, was once quoted as saying that Tanzania’s presence at the G20 allows it to influence key decisions on development challenges that affect lower-income countries. “This is an opportunity for Tanzania to showcase its priorities and engage with partners who can support its transition to a more sustainable economy,” he remarked.

A political analyst, Paschal Makonda added that President Samia’s participation at the G20 elevates Tanzania’s international profile and opens up crucial partnerships. “By engaging with global leaders on economic development, Tanzania can attract foreign investment, particularly in infrastructure and agriculture,” Makonda explained, pointing to the transformative potential of foreign partnerships for Tanzania’s regional growth and resilience. 

He emphasized that Tanzania’s invitation to the G20 demonstrates recognition of President Samia’s leadership in advancing development agendas across Africa, particularly in areas like clean energy, climate resilience, and social inclusivity.

One major focus for Tanzania at the G20 summit will be on climate change and food security, issues that are pressing not only for Tanzania but for the region as a whole. Historian Mussa Lugete pointed out that climate instability has increasingly disrupted Tanzania’s agriculture sector, affecting the country’s food systems.

“President Samia will likely highlight the need for support in climate-smart agriculture and food security initiatives, which are essential for regional stability,” Lugete observed, noting that this summit is a rare platform for Tanzania to secure investments and partnerships focused on resilient farming methods and sustainable food production. Tanzania’s recent hosting of a continental food security summit in Dar es Salaam highlights this priority, aligning with the G20’s emphasis on resilience and food security.

In addition to climate and food security, renewable energy is high on Tanzania’s agenda. As the country seeks to transition to sustainable energy sources, it actively pursues partnerships in solar, wind, and hydroelectric power. 

Economist Kahyoza highlighted the importance of this transition, saying, “Renewable energy investments are crucial for Tanzania to reduce dependency on fossil fuels and improve energy access in rural and urban areas.” Clean cooking initiatives, which address both environmental and health concerns, are another key priority. President Samia will use the G20 platform to advocate for investments in clean energy infrastructure, which can make a substantial difference to communities across Tanzania.

Youth and women’s empowerment are also central themes for Tanzania. With a substantial portion of the population under 30, Tanzania faces both challenges and opportunities in youth employment and education. Makonda emphasized that Tanzania’s progress in empowering youth and women aligns well with the G20’s broader goals of inclusive growth and social stability. 

“President Samia’s focus on youth and women’s empowerment is transforming Tanzania’s socioeconomic landscape and creating new pathways for sustainable growth,” he said. The G20 will provide an opportunity to discuss strategies for expanding educational opportunities and improving youth employment prospects, both critical for Tanzania’s future.

Beyond specific development projects, Tanzania’s presence at the G20 signals its emerging role as a stable and influential leader in the region. President Samia’s engagement with other world leaders is expected to bring attention to Tanzania’s strategic importance within East Africa. 

Historian Lugete remarked that “Tanzania has the potential to be an economic hub in East Africa, a role that could be reinforced through strategic partnerships formed at the G20.” He added that by positioning itself as a champion for regional resilience and prosperity, Tanzania can attract long-term investments that further strengthen its economic standing.

Attending the G20 summit is a milestone for Tanzania, marking a new level of recognition for its developmental aspirations and achievements. Kahyoza highlighted that the summit offers a platform to attract transformative partnerships, not only for Tanzania but for other African nations navigating similar challenges.

President Samia’s participation in the G20 Summit in Rio presents an opportunity to advance Tanzania’s national interests while building alliances that could bring tangible benefits to its citizens. Through these strategic dialogues, Tanzania is poised to make significant progress on its development goals, securing a stronger and more sustainable future for its people.