Dodoma — Tanzanian Prime Minister Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba will represent President Samia Suluhu Hassan at the Russia–Africa Summit scheduled to take place in Moscow on October 28–29, 2026.
According to a statement issued by the Office of the Prime Minister, Nchemba departed Tanzania on Tuesday to attend the summit, which is expected to bring together Russian President Vladimir Putin and African leaders.
The summit forms part of Moscow’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its political and economic partnerships with African countries. Key areas of focus are expected to include trade and investment, science and technology, food security, digital transformation, and artificial intelligence (AI).
The Office of the Prime Minister said discussions would focus on expanding economic partnerships and promoting mutually beneficial cooperation between Russia and African countries. Participants are also expected to consider a joint action plan and the Russia–Africa Partnership Programme for 2027–2029.
According to Russian officials, 48 African countries have confirmed their participation in the summit. Putin and President of Burundi Evarist Ndayishimiye, who currently chairs the African Union, are expected to co-chair the meeting.
The summit is also expected to adopt a joint declaration outlining shared priorities and commitments for the next phase of Russia–Africa relations.
READ MORE: Putin Calls for Stronger Russia–Tanzania Trade as Samia Visits Moscow
Nchemba’s participation comes nearly four months after President Samia’s state visit to Russia in early June 2026. During the visit, she held talks with Putin and attended the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, engagements that underscored Tanzania’s efforts to strengthen its diplomatic and economic ties with Russia.
Bilateral trade between Tanzania and Russia was valued at approximately US$321.1 million in 2024/25. However, Tanzania continues to record a substantial trade deficit, with exports to Russia reportedly amounting to just US$5.78 million, while imports from the Russian market account for a much larger share of bilateral trade.
Wheat is among the principal commodities traded between the two countries. In 2024/25, Tanzania spent approximately US$332.3 million importing wheat from various countries, with more than 70 percent of those imports reportedly originating from Russia, making it a dominant supplier to the Tanzanian market.
