MOGADISHU, Somalia – Somalia and Tanzania have signed a landmark immigration Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and easing travel between the two countries.
The agreement, announced on Monday by Somalia’s ambassador to Tanzania, Ilyas Ali Hassan, introduces visa-free and visa-on-arrival arrangements for eligible travellers.
In a statement, the ambassador said the deal is expected to boost tourism, attract investment, and promote education exchanges and business mobility. He added that the agreement could pave the way for the launch of direct flights, further deepening economic and social links.
The MoU was formally signed by Somalia’s Interior Minister, Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail Fartaag, and Tanzania’s Home Affairs Minister, Patrobas Paschal Katambi.
Senior immigration officials from both countries attended the ceremony, including Somalia’s Director-General of Immigration, Mustafa Duhulow, and Tanzania’s Immigration Commissioner General, Dr Anna P. Makakala.
Officials say the agreement will enhance cooperation on migration management, streamline travel procedures, and strengthen coordination between the two governments.
Nevertheless, the move reflects growing diplomatic and economic engagement between Mogadishu and Dodoma, as both nations seek to expand regional partnerships within East Africa.
