Minister on Tanzania trip

Minister of State for Overseas Development, Peter Power will begin a four-day visit around Tanzania today to see first hand how taxpayers’ money is being spent on projects in the African state.

Mr Power will see the impact of Ireland’s financial support dispersed through Irish Aid, the Department of Foreign Affairs' overseas development programme.

Ireland will donate almost €34m to Tanzania this year, as well as giving funds to aid agencies based there.

The bulk of the cash concentrates on boosting growth in the agricultural sector to improve rural livelihoods, supporting the health sector, addressing gender issues, and improving governance and accountability.

Mr Power said he hoped the visit will further strengthen ties between the two countries.

“Ireland is committed to supporting the government and people of Tanzania in furthering the development of this great country,” he added.

During his visit he will hold high-level talks with Prime Minister Mizengo Peter Pinda and a number of other government ministers, along with meeting Tanzanian parliamentarians, civil society representatives, and members of the Tanzanian media.