Diplomatic presence extended

Bernard lugongo

Six new embassies introduced 

New envoys named

TANZANIA has extended its international wing after President John Magufuli appointed 21 ambassadors to represent the country abroad.

Six of them are destined for new embassies set for opening.

The new embassies for launching are allocated in Algeria, Israel, South Korea, Sudan, Qatar and Turkey.

The remaining 15 are going to fill the posts left vacant in Tanzania’s embassies in Beijing (China), Paris (France), Brussels (European Union headquarters), Muscat (Oman), Rome (Italy), New Delhi (India) and Pretoria (South Africa).

Others are Nairobi (Kenya), Brasilia (Brazil), Maputo (Mozambique), Kinshasa (DR Congo), Kampala (Uganda), Abuja (Nigeria), Moroni (Comoro) and Geneva. Analysts reacted yesterday, suggesting that the move could further justify a ban on foreign travels for public officials.

When he came into power late last year, President Magufuli announced a ban on unnecessary foreign trips for government workers as a crusade to cut costs.

He argued that instead of officials from the government entities travelling abroad to represent the country, such duties would be carried out by the ambassadors in respective countries.

For the new posts, President Magufuli has appointed ambassadors Mbelwa Kairuki, Samuel Shelukindo, Joseph Sokoine, Silima Haji, Abdallah Kilima, Baraka Luvanda and Dr James Msekela.

Others appointed are Mr Sylvester Ambokile, Ms Pindi Chana, Dr Emmanuel Nchimbi, Mr Rajab Luhwavi, (Rtd) Lieutenant General Paul Ignace Mella, Ms Grace Mgovano, Mr Mohamed Bakari, Mr Job Masima, Mr Omar Mzee, Ms Matilda Masuka, Ms Fatma Rajab, Mr Sylvester Mabumba, Prof Elizabeth Kiondo and Mr George Madafa.

According to the statement issued by the Directorate of Presidential Communications, working station for each ambassador will be made public later.

Diplomatic experts told the ‘Daily News’ that apart from the common diplomatic role by the ambassadors in strengthening the friendship between Tanzania and foreign countries, the appointments add value to the decision made on foreign travels.

They linked the appointments to the ban on foreign trips, saying since previously Tanzania had no ambassadors in those countries, it was very difficult for the government to implement the ban because of lack of representatives.

A lecturer at the Centre for Foreign Relations (CFR), Dr Kitojo Wetengere, said such appointments were crucial for the country since the appointed ambassadors will be mandated to foster the country’s interests in terms of luring investments and trade between Tanzania and those countries.

He argued that as far as the ban on foreign trips was concerned the government would no longer be forced to send delegates to represent the country for any official activities done in those countries, but the ambassadors would tackle them on behalf of delegates.

University of Dodoma (Udom) lecturer Paul Loisulie said that the ambassadors are fundamental for carrying out multiple duties. One such duty is to improve diplomatic cooperation and represent Tanzania in every activity held in those countries.

Hence, referring to a ban on foreign trips, he said that could mean that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, East Africa, Regional and International Cooperation does not need to send officials for representation. He also commended President Magufuli for appointing ambassadors for new embassies, saying this would help in increasing the number of friends to Tanzania.

Meanwhile, President Magufuli transferred Amb Modest Mero from his current station in Geneva to the headquarters of the United Nations (UN) in New York where he will be a permanent representative.

He replaces Amb Tuvako Manongi who retires on December 6, this year. He also appointed Ms Grace Martin as Director of Protocol in the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, East Africa, Regional and International Cooperation.