The First Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia, Honourable Malungo A. Chisangano, MP, expressed gratitude for the long-standing bilateral relations between Zambia and Tanzania, particularly evident through collaborative developmental initiatives, parliamentary exchanges and local government cooperation.
Speaking during a courtesy call on her by the Deputy Solicitor General of the Republic of Tanzania, accompanied by Tanzania’s High Commissioner to Zambia, H.E. Lt. Gen. Mathew E. Mkingule, on Thursday, 7th November, 2024, at Parliament Buildings, Honourable Chisangano said this friendship has been strengthened by significant joint projects such as the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA), fostering stronger economic ties.
"The two countries agreed to seek financial assistance from China, resulting in the establishment of TAZARA in 1968, funded by an interest-free loan," she explained.
Honorable Chisangano also pointed out that these strong ties are reinforced at the Parliamentary level and the National Assembly has reaped optimal benefits through numerous exchange programs and benchmarking visits.
“For instance, a delegation from the Zambian Parliament, led by Chairperson Honorable Darius Mulunda, MP, visited Tanzania in May 2024 to learn more about enhancing local government practices,” she said.
And His Excellency Lt. Gen. Mathew E. Mkingule reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to enhancing collaboration with the Zambian Government on various issues. He acknowledged the impact of a Tanzanian parliamentary delegation’s visit to Zambia in February 2024, where they studied Zambia’s Constituency Development Fund (CDF) management practices. The insights gained, he noted, have positively contributed to Tanzania's initiatives in addressing the effects of drought.
Meanwhile, Tanzania’s Deputy Solicitor General, Ms. Alice Mtulo, praised Zambia’s judicial system for its independence and responsiveness, noting that these qualities contribute to its efficiency and public accessibility. Ms. Mtulo described her visit as an opportunity to learn best practices from Zambia's Solicitor General’s Office, with a particular focus on judicial independence and the practices that promote an effective court system.