Zambia and Tanzania Signs MoU to Combat Drug Trafficking and Immigration
Zambia and Tanzania have signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at bolstering efforts to combat drug use and trafficking, as well as addressing immigration matters.
The signing ceremony took place at the close of the Second Session of the Joint Permanent Commission on Defence and Security for the two countries in Zanzibar, Tanzania.
Representing Zambia, Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security, Hon. Jack Mwiimbu, inked the agreements, while Tanzania was represented by Minister of State-Prime Minister’s Office, Hon. Jenista J. Mhagama, and Minister of Defence and National Service, Hon. Dr. Stergmera L. Tax.
Under the MoUs, Zambia and Tanzania have committed to close cooperation in combatting drug use and trafficking, facilitated by their respective agencies – Zambia’s Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) and Tanzania’s Drug Control and Enforcement Authority (DCEA).
The agreements aim to establish mechanisms for preventing and combating drug-related crimes within their territories and along the common border. Key areas of cooperation include the harmonization of drug control procedures, information sharing, capacity building, and joint programs in drug interdiction and demand reduction interventions.
Additionally, the MoUs address immigration matters, focusing on collaboration in the movement of persons between the two countries to prevent transnational crimes and illegal migration.
Both parties will exchange information and experiences regarding policies, laws, and regulations, with a specific emphasis on enhancing immigration control and capacity building.
The agreements, which are valid for a period of five years, underscore the commitment of Zambia and Tanzania to promoting regional security and cooperation.
The signing ceremony was attended by senior government officials and heads from both countries, including Ministers of Defence and Permanent Secretaries.
In a statement issued by Collins H. Hikalinda (ACP), the ministry’s Public Relations Officer, Minister Mwiimbu expressed gratitude to the Government of Tanzania for its cooperation and also announced Zambia’s invitation to host the third session of the joint permanent commission in 2025, further solidifying the commitment of the two nations to ongoing collaboration.
