Tanzanian Embassy and SLU explore the future of agricultural collaboration

The delegation included H.E. Ambassador Mobhare Matinyi (appointed Ambassador in June 2025), and Counselor Abel Maganya. They were received by Vice-Chancellor Maria Knutson Wedel, Pro Vice-Chancellor for International Relations Ylva Hillbur, and Sara Gräslund, Head of SLU Global. 

The meeting was arranged at the request of the Embassy, which expressed an interest in gaining further insight into the university’s work and discussing possibilities for future cooperation.

Long-standing partnership in agriculture

Both parties highlighted the long and valuable collaboration between SLU and Tanzanian universities, research institutes and organisations. Over the years, this partnership has included joint research projects, doctoral training, institutional capacity building and knowledge exchange in areas such as sustainable agriculture, natural resource management and food security.

Maria Knutsson Wedel emphasised that cooperation with Tanzania has been both extensive and mutually beneficial, contributing to scientific development as well as practical solutions for agricultural systems in East Africa. She also expressed the university’s  overall appreciation for the strong relationships built with Tanzanian partners over time.

Changing landscape for development cooperation

The meeting addressed the shifting conditions for international development funding. Sweden’s development aid budget is undergoing a transition, with a 20 percent reduction planned for 2026. In addition, significant resources have been reallocated from African countries to support Ukraine.

These changes may affect the scope and structure of future research and capacity-building initiatives. Against this backdrop, both sides underlined the importance of maintaining strategic academic partnerships and identifying sustainable models for continued collaboration.

Looking ahead

The visit concluded with a joint discussion on how the Embassy and SLU can further strengthen ties, facilitate institutional contacts and support ongoing and future projects. Both parties expressed a shared commitment to advancing agricultural research and innovation that contributes to sustainable development and food systems resilience.

Background 

SLU has been actively engaged in a long-standing bilateral cooperation with Tanzania, financed by Sida. Examples of research areas during the latest phase of the cooperation have included agribusiness and sustainable development; sustainable agricultural productivity, processing and value chains to enhance food security in Tanzania; informality and habitation in the context of a changing urban landscape; and alternative urban planning models for small towns in Tanzania.