DALLAS, TX – Dallas Mayor Eric L. Johnson officially signed a Sister City agreement with Dar es Salaam, United Republic of Tanzania, on Tuesday, July 22, fulfilling a key commitment from a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed in April 2022. This agreement marks a significant step in fostering deeper economic and cultural ties between the two cities.
The 2022 MOU outlined four objectives for the Dallas-Tanzania relationship, with three now successfully completed. These include the establishment of a physical trade office in Dallas to promote East African trade, Mayor Johnson leading a Dallas delegation to Tanzania, and the formal agreement to promote exchange between the two regions.
In May 2024, the headquarters of the Tanzanian American Chamber of Commerce officially opened in the Dallas International District. Mayor Johnson is currently in Tanzania leading a Dallas delegation, where the third objective was completed with the signing of the Sister City agreement between Mayor Johnson and the Honorable Omary Said Kumbilamoto, Lord Mayor of Dar es Salaam.
"I am honored to officially sign this Sister City agreement with Dar es Salaam alongside Lord Mayor Kumbilamoto,” said Mayor Johnson. “This moment represents the culmination of more than four years of relationship-building between Dallas and Tanzania, especially with the city of Dar es Salaam."
Mayor Johnson expressed gratitude to Her Excellency Ambassador Elsie Kanza of Tanzania, Lord Mayor Kumbilamoto, and all who contributed to the partnership. "Today marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for our two cities. This Sister City partnership will open the door to new opportunities in trade, investment, education, tourism, and cultural exchange. I look forward to exploring these opportunities and continuing to build on the unique bond Dallas shares with Dar es Salaam, a bond that enriches both our cities,” he added.
The agreement outlines a comprehensive vision for exchange, including:
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Trade and economic development initiatives to facilitate investment opportunities.
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Small business exchange programs to strengthen bilateral trade.
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Student exchange programs incorporating virtual innovation labs and cultural immersion.
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Sustainable urban development efforts exchanging best practices in public transportation and waste management.
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Creative economic and tourism partnerships promoting music, art, and cultural heritage.
