Tanzania and South Sudan are seeking to deepen agricultural cooperation, expand regional trade and strengthen food security as the two countries pursue greater economic opportunities and improved livelihoods.

The commitment was made during a bilateral meeting held on the sidelines of the Nane Nane Agricultural Exhibition at the Dr John Samuel Malecela grounds in Dodoma.

Tanzania’s Minister for Agriculture, Daniel Chongolo, welcomed South Sudan’s Minister for Food Security, Clement Juma Mbugoniwia, to the exhibition, describing the visit as an opportunity to strengthen ties between the two countries.

“Your presence at this year’s Nane Nane Exhibition reflects the strong and growing friendship between Tanzania and the Republic of South Sudan, as well as our shared commitment to advancing agricultural cooperation, regional trade, and food security,” Chongolo said.

Mbugoniwia highlighted the importance of market-driven agriculture in transforming South Sudan and supporting wider economic development across Africa.

He pointed to South Sudan’s potential in crops such as maize, rice, millet and beans, while praising Tanzania’s progress in agricultural research, mechanisation, irrigation, cooperative development and agro-processing.

“We believe Tanzania’s experiences offer valuable lessons that can support South Sudan’s own agricultural transformation journey,” Mbugoniwia said.

Transport key to agricultural trade

Transport infrastructure was also identified as an important area for cooperation.

Prof. Godius Walter Kahyarara, Permanent Secretary in Tanzania’s Ministry of Transport, said stronger transport links would help facilitate the movement of agricultural products and other goods between the two countries.

He highlighted opportunities to cooperate in railway, air cargo and lake transport as Tanzania and South Sudan seek to expand agricultural trade.

The discussions underline the potential for closer cooperation between the two countries in agriculture, infrastructure and trade, while supporting efforts to improve food security and create new economic opportunities for farmers and businesses.

Image: Tanzania, South Sudan Seek Closer Agricultural Cooperation to Boost Food Security