I arrived in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania this morning for a two-day state visit on the invitation of His Excellency John Pombe Magufuli. I thank him for the invitation.
After arrival, we held a bilateral discussion with my host that focused on the following five key areas;
The Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA): where we urged the experts to continue studying the matter and would advise the principals who are also consulting further.
Joint Electricity/Power projects: our two countries are exploring the following shared electricity initiatives; Kikagati-Murungo, Nishongyezi-Nsongeza and Masaka-Mwanza projects.
Transport: The Malaba-Kampala SGR will connect to Tanzania through Bukasa Port while Tanzania is building dry port at Mwanza. MV Umoja ferry will be rehabilitated. Tanzania is also upgrading it's railway network and there will be only three checkpoints between Dar es Salaam and Mutukula to avoid inconveniencing traders.
The East African Crude Oil Pipeline: We have agreed that key issues around this project have been resolved and we should ensure the contractor starts work.
Finally, our ministers of foreign affairs signed a memorandum of understanding on political and diplomatic consultations between Tanzania and Uganda.
