Norway and Tanzania Strengthen Agricultural Partnership with SAGCOT Agreement

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – November 21, 2024

Norwegian Ambassador to Tanzania, Her Excellency Tone Tinnes, reaffirmed Norway’s unwavering commitment to Tanzania’s agricultural development during the signing of a three-year agreement between the Royal Norwegian Embassy and the Southern Agricultural Growth Corridor of Tanzania (SAGCOT). The agreement, which extends the longstanding partnership, aims to bolster food security, climate resilience, and inclusive growth in the agriculture sector.

“Climate, food security, and agriculture are top priorities for the Norwegian government,” Ambassador Tinnes remarked. “This collaboration is part of a journey that began 50 years ago in agriculture and 60 years ago in our diplomatic relationship. It’s a testament to the enduring ties between our two nations.”

Expanding Horizons

While this agreement builds on 14 years of direct collaboration with SAGCOT, it also signifies a new chapter. SAGCOT, originally established as a Southern Agricultural Growth Corridor of Tanzania (SAGCOT) is now tasked with expanding its transformative model to other regions of Tanzania( Agricultural Growth Corridor of Tanzania (AGCOT)). Ambassador Tinnes expressed pride in continuing this journey, emphasizing the success of SAGCOT’s integrated approach to enhancing productivity, strengthening value chains, and fostering public-private partnerships.

“Seeing SAGCOT’s work firsthand—from Iringa to Morogoro—was a powerful reminder of the impact this partnership has had,” said Ambassador Tinnes. “Reading about it in reports is one thing, but meeting the farmers and partners brings the achievements to life. The results are tangible and inspiring.”

A Regional Example

The Ambassador praised SAGCOT’s ability to serve as a regional model for sustainable agriculture, aligning closely with Norway’s agricultural and food strategies. She highlighted the value of expanding these efforts to other African countries, focusing on increasing productivity and creating value throughout the supply chain.

“This is exactly what we aim for: synergy among our partners and a ripple effect of best practices,” she noted. “With SAGCOT’s growing regional role, we are confident that the good examples here will inspire broader change across Africa.”

Strong Partnerships

Collaborations with other key stakeholders, such as Trade Mark Africa and Repoa complement Norway’s agricultural support in Tanzania. Ambassador Tinnes underscored the importance of these partnerships in fostering innovation and sustainability in the agriculture sector.

“We’ve witnessed how these collaborations yield fruitful results for SAGCOT and its partners. It’s a team effort, and the energy between our organizations drives progress,” she said.

As the partnership continues to grow, Ambassador Tinnes expressed her gratitude for being part of this significant milestone. “Hongera sana! We look forward to even greater outcomes for farmers and sustainable agriculture through this collaboration,” she concluded.

Effective from 2025 to 2027, the new agreement symbolizes Norway and Tanzania’s shared vision for resilient agricultural development, ensuring food security and sustainable growth for future generations.