PORT LOUIS: Tanzania has called for stronger regional cooperation among Indian Ocean nations, warning that rising security threats, geopolitical tensions and environmental pressures require coordinated action to safeguard maritime resources and economic interests.
Foreign Affairs Minister Mahmoud Thabit Kombo made the remarks at the 9th Indian Ocean Conference held from April 10 to 12 in Port Louis, where leaders and policymakers discussed maritime security, trade and regional integration.
Kombo said Tanzania was committed to balancing economic development with environmental sustainability, describing the Indian Ocean as central to the country’s long-term growth and regional connectivity. He added that national efforts to protect marine ecosystems and territorial waters must be matched by broader regional collaboration.
“The need for collective stewardship is no longer optional,” he said, citing growing risks ranging from security threats to climate-related pressures affecting marine environments and coastal economies.
The Indian Ocean is a key global trade route and a vital economic lifeline for East and Central Africa, serving as a gateway for land-linked countries to access international markets. Analysts say increased competition over maritime routes and resources, alongside climate change impacts, is intensifying the need for joint governance frameworks.
Tanzania is positioning itself as a regional logistics and maritime hub through investments in ports, energy and transport infrastructure, Kombo said, adding that the country’s blue economy — spanning fisheries, tourism and shipping — supports millions of livelihoods.
Tanzania marks Indian Ocean cooperation milestone, promotes sustainable ocean use
On the sidelines of the conference, Kombo held talks with Dhananjay Ramful to boost bilateral ties between Tanzania and Mauritius. The discussions focused on expanding trade, investment and cooperation in sectors including maritime transport, aquaculture and tourism.
Kombo also invited Mauritian investors to explore opportunities in Tanzania across agriculture, mining, energy, ICT and the blue economy, while calling for closer collaboration in marine security and improved air and tourism links. He further requested expanded scholarship opportunities for Tanzanian students in science, technology and health-related fields.
Ramful said both countries should work to increase trade volumes and deepen private sector engagement, with both sides underscoring the importance of joint efforts to protect marine resources and address climate change across the Indian Ocean region.
