The Tanzanian American Chamber of Commerce opened its national headquarters in Dallas’ International District, a shared long-term goal to promote trade and tourism between Tanzania and the United States.
Earlier this month, civic leaders, including Mayor Eric Johnson, Tanzanian representatives and community members gathered at the Prism Center for the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the new international office. This move aligns with Johnson’s long-term vision to strengthen foreign relations through increased trade, cultural exchanges and foreign direct investment.
“The opening of the Tanzanian American Chamber of Commerce in Dallas is the realization of Dallas and Tanzania’s shared vision for collaboration,” said Mayor Johnson. “This new trade office is another major win for our city and a testament to Dallas’ commitment to increasing its global presence and strengthening relationships with our international allies. Dallas is truly the place to be right now, and we will continue to build new relationships and take actions that aim to place Dallas on the world stage.”
The new office results from a three-year collaboration between Mayor Johnson and Tanzanian Minister of Foreign Affairs Liberata Mulamula and a few months later met with Her Excellency, Ambassador of Tanzania to the United States, Elsie Kanza. Their partnership began virtually in August 2021 and progressed with meetings and a Memorandum of Understanding signed in April 2022.
“The establishment of the Tanzanian American Chamber of Commerce and the operationalization of the Tanzania Trade office in Dallas marks a significant milestone in our quest for deepening commercial partnership between Tanzania and the United States of America,” said Ambassador Kanza. “This strategic partnership aims not only to facilitate trade flows and investments between the two countries but also to serve as a commitment to fostering sustainable growth and mutual prosperity. I am delighted that this monumental event is taking place in the great city of Dallas as this friendly city has welcomed Tanzania with open arms, especially under the leadership of Mayor Eric L. Johnson.”
The ribbon-cutting coincided with the 2024 U.S.-Africa Business Summit at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, marking the first time the summit was held outside Washington, D.C., in 12 years.
Dallas has maintained a close relationship with Tanzania for decades, with North Texan leaders frequently traveling to Tanzania for business, leisure and charitable activities.
Former Ambassador Jeanne Phillips, chair of the Mayor’s International Advisory Council, worked alongside Mayor Johnson to enhance Dallas’ international presence.
“Having an in-person location in the city strengthens our relations with Tanzania, and it will grow our international business ties with this important strategic partner, ” Phillips said. “We welcome Tanzania to our city and are hopeful that we will expand our ties in the years to come.”
Under Mayor Johnson, Dallas has prioritized opening new foreign trade offices as part of its international strategy. The Tanzanian American Chamber of Commerce is the third such office in the Dallas International District, following the French Trade Office and the European Chamber of Commerce. These offices support the city’s foreign relations strategy by fostering economic trade, investment and cultural exchange.
The Tanzanian American Chamber of Commerce is located in District 11, represented by Council Member Jaynie Schultz, who has been instrumental in designating the International District in North Dallas.
“The national headquarters of the Tanzanian American Chamber of Commerce is an important addition to the international business community we are building at the Prism Center in the Dallas International District,” Shultz said. “There are boundless opportunities for economic growth between Dallas and Tanzania. We are thrilled to work together toward the success of both.”
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