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Add to Preferred SourcesThe United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the National Commission for UNESCO in the United Republic of Tanzania have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their longstanding partnership and advancing shared priorities in support of Tanzania’s sustainable development agenda, according to a press release issued on 17 September 2026. The renewed engagement was announced following a meeting between UNESCO Country Representative Mr. Michel Toto and the Secretary-General of the National Commission for UNESCO, Professor Hamisi Malebo. Discussions focused on advancing strategic coordination across UNESCO’s fields of competence. These include education, science, culture, and communication and information. Both sides underscored the value of closer joint action in support of Tanzania’s national priorities.
The National Commission serves as a key institutional partner in facilitating and strengthening Tanzania’s engagement with UNESCO. It provides a platform for coordination between UNESCO, the Government, and relevant national stakeholders. Through this role, it helps connect UNESCO’s global mandate, expertise, and programmes with national priorities. The partnership has been described as longstanding and central to advancing shared development goals. Both institutions emphasized the importance of building on this foundation.
UNESCO highlighted the National Commission’s contribution to promoting coherence across UNESCO’s fields of competence. The cooperation is particularly important in supporting the implementation of shared priorities through stronger coordination, dialogue, and partnerships. The two officials discussed how joint efforts can enhance the reach and impact of activities in Tanzania. They agreed that alignment across sectors would help deliver more effective outcomes. Coordination with government institutions and other partners was also identified as essential.
“UNESCO greatly values its partnership with the Tanzania National Commission for UNESCO. Strong coordination enables us to bring together our respective strengths, expertise and partnerships and to ensure that UNESCO’s contribution responds effectively to Tanzania’s priorities,” said Mr. Michel Toto, UNESCO Country Representative.
Professor Hamisi Malebo echoed this view, noting the National Commission’s commitment to strengthening coordination across UNESCO’s fields of competence. He stated that working closely together would enhance the coherence, reach, and impact of joint efforts. Both officials reaffirmed the importance of sustained dialogue. Their remarks framed the meeting as a step toward deeper cooperation.
The meeting also addressed the proposed Development Partners’ Roundtable on Culture and Heritage for Sustainable Tourism in Zanzibar. The initiative was cited as one example of the broader cooperation between UNESCO and the National Commission. It seeks to bring partners together around shared priorities and strengthen support for Zanzibar’s cultural heritage and sustainable development. The discussions further underscored the importance of continued joint engagement with government institutions, development partners, and other stakeholders. Both sides confirmed their intention to advance national priorities through strengthened cooperation.