Ministry Engages Tanzania EALA MPs to Strengthen Regional Representation
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation held discussions with Tanzanian Members of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) at the Ministry’s sub-offices in Dar es Salaam on April 21, 2026.
Speaking during the meeting, the Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation responsible for East African Affairs, James Millya, emphasized that the session aimed to provide strategic guidance on the effective execution of parliamentary duties while strengthening Tanzania’s voice and influence within the East African Community (EAC) legislative framework.
He underscored that EALA representatives carry the responsibility of advancing Tanzania’s interests through economic diplomacy, in line with the country’s Foreign Policy, noting that Tanzania remains committed to timely and full financial contributions to the EAC to support regional integration objectives.
He further noted that Tanzania intends to strategically leverage the position of its national, Ambassador Stephen Mbundi, to advance national interests within the Community.
The meeting forms part of a structured coordination framework between the Parliament of the United Republic of Tanzania and the Ministry, aimed at strengthening the effectiveness of Tanzania’s representatives in regional and international institutions.
Earlier, the Acting Permanent Secretary for East African Cooperation, Ambassador Said Shaib Mussa, stated that the dialogue was intended to provide strategic direction for Tanzania’s engagement within EALA.
Officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs also stressed the importance of aligning national priorities with regional agendas to ensure tangible development outcomes.
EALA Members of Parliament, led by Chairperson Ansar Kachwamba, welcomed the engagement, noting that it provided valuable guidance for advancing Tanzania’s national interests within the Assembly.
Member of Parliament Salema added that the meeting had enhanced their understanding of their roles and would improve coherence in representing national priorities at the regional level.
