NORWEGIAN State Secretary Andreas Kravik has praised Tanzania’s Interfaith Committee for its exceptional work in promoting peace, unity and tolerance among members of diverse communities.

Kravik expressed the appreciation during his visit here at the weekend, where he toured several projects implemented by Norwegian Church Aid (NCA) in collaboration with the National Muslim Council of Tanzania (BAKWATA). 

He commended the interfaith initiative for fostering collaboration, mutual respect, and understanding despite religious differences. 

"The efforts of the interfaith groups are critical, not just for Tanzania but for the entire world. We need these kinds of positive relationships where we respect and value each other despite our differences,” Kravik said.

 “This is significant because it demonstrates to everyone in Lindi and beyond what can be achieved when people come together for dialogue, mutual understanding and tolerance.”

 Kravik also visited Likotwa Primary School in Rasbula Ward where he witnessed a school club dedicated to combating Gender-Based Violence (GBV).

 At the school, the State Secretary expressed his gratitude for the initiative and commended the young pupils for their active role in addressing GBV.

 “I am deeply impressed by young children at this school who have shown me how they can be agents of change when it comes to the issue of GBV,” Kravik said.

 Ester Ibrahim, a 14-year-old Standard Six pupil at Likotwa Primary School, shared how the GBV club had equipped her and her fellow pupils with essential knowledge on GBV and how to fight it. She explained that through the club, they have become ambassadors for change, advocating for gender equality.

 Earlier, before his visit to Lindi,  Kravik had held   consultation meeting with officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation where the talks focused on their shared commitment to multilateralism and tackling global challenges such as climate change, poverty and unsustainable.

 Kravik also noted the long-standing relationship between Norway and Tanzania, dating back to the country’s independence.

 He highlighted that many Norwegian companies are eager to collaborate with Tanzanian counterparts, particularly in the Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) subsector.

 “We have a strong interest in supporting Tanzania’s continued economic growth. We currently have many Norwegian companies eager to collaborate on projects, especially in the LNG subsector,” Kravik said.

 He added that Norway through its partnership with NCA, has contributed significantly to various development projects in Tanzania. “We are proud partners of NCA and we remain committed to supporting their efforts,” he said.

 Irene Chilewa, Interfaith Committee member in Lindi Region, said that the interfaith committee was established there in 2014 during Tanzania’s preparations for gas production with the aim of raising awareness and mobilizing the community for development.

 The committee has played a pivotal role in involving the local community in development activities, supporting economic initiatives and providing awareness on GBV. 

Norwegian Ambassador to Tanzania Tone Tinnes highlighted Tanzania’s unique history of unity and dialogue across tribes and religious communities. 

She described the interfaith committee as an important tool in maintaining the values. 

“The presence of the interfaith committee is key to ensuring this legacy continues,” Ambassador Tinnes stated. 

Berte Marie, NCA Tanzania Country Director hailed Tanzania’s approach to interfaith collaboration, noting that it has been central to their work. 

Lindi District Commissioner, Victoria Mwanziva, expressed pride in the government’s support for the work being done by NCA, recognising the organisation’s role in building the skills and capacities of religious leaders and community members, empowering them socially and economically through various development projects.