PRESIDENT Samia Suluhu Hassan has reaffirmed that Tanzania will continue to play a vital role to foster international cooperation, driving economic growth, and maintaining peace and security in Africa and globally.

She made the statement during the New Year Diplomatic Sherry Party held at State House in Dar es Salaam on Tuesday. The event, organised annually, serves as a platform to exchange good wishes, reflect on the country's progress, and outline Tanzania's regional and international priorities.

Speaking on economic growth and strategic milestones, President Samia stated that in 2024, Tanzania achieved an economic growth rate of 5.4 percent. This growth was driven by increases in production, investments, and tourism. She noted that the country also made historic strides in implementing strategic infrastructure projects, particularly in the rail and energy sectors, which are expected to transform Tanzania's economy.

On development planning and policy updates, President Samia highlighted that Tanzania is set to complete preparations for its new National Development Vision and a review of its foreign policy by 2025.

“These documents will define the country's priorities and guide its partnerships with international stakeholders. They will also strengthen international collaborations, with a focus on key sectors such as education, health, and energy to support sustainable development,” she said.

On energy and regional integration, she announced that Tanzania will host the African Heads of State Energy Summit later this month. The summit will spotlight "Mission 300," a transformative initiative aimed at connecting 300 million Africans to electricity by 2030. 

Key partners for the summit include the World Bank, the African Development Bank, and the African Union. The event will bring together leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss strategies and collaborative solutions for Africa's energy challenges.

President Samia also underscored progress of the 2,115-megawatt Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project (JNHPP), which is nearing completion. She explained that the project, alongside energy grid integrations with neighbouring countries, positions Tanzania as a key player in regional energy trade.

She elaborated on current initiatives, including Tanzania's connection to the East African Power Pool (EAPP) with Kenya (where energy transmission trials are ongoing) and integration with the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP) via Zambia. Collaborative projects like the Kikagati-Morongo Hydropower Project (with Uganda) and the Rusumo Hydropower Project (with Burundi and Rwanda) were also highlighted as significant developments.

President Samia added that the Africa Energy Summit will serve as a critical platform to foster partnerships, share innovations, and mobilise resources to address the continent’s energy challenges.

Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, also expressed gratitude to the diplomatic community for their support in strengthening Tanzania’s international partnerships.