Mahmoud Thabit Kombo

Tanzania
Hassan bets on Swahili to counter diplomatic isolation

The Tanzanian government is deploying the country's official language as a tool of international influence as it reshapes its foreign policy priorities.

Palace Intrigues
Alassane Ouattara, Mahamadou Issoufou, António Guterres

Intrigues big and small: every Thursday, Africa Intelligence takes a peek into the corridors of power in Africa and beyond.

Ivory CoastFirst Lady's charity gala pushed to autumn

NigerLomé, Mahamadou Issoufou's rear base

TanzaniaMinister Mahmoud Thabit Kombo in pursuit of Antonio Gueterres from NYC to Riyadh

Tanzania
The low-key nomination of a Tanzanian judge for the next ICC elections

A court filing launched in The Hague by Spanish lawyers over the bloody 2025 elections has caused concern at the highest levels. In a sign that President Samia Suluhu Hassan is taking the matter seriously, Dodoma is seeking to field a Tanzanian candidate for the judges' elections in December.

Tanzania
Foreign minister considers a possible visit to Israel

Tanzanian foreign minister Mahmoud Thabit Kombo is reportedly considering travelling to the Jewish state in April 2026, a trip that would be unprecedented for a minister from the East African country.

Kenya, Tanzania
Presidents Ruto and Suluhu seek to bury the hatchet

Officials from both countries have discreetly resumed contact in an effort to bring an end to a period of acute tensions surrounding Tanzania's most recent general elections. The Kenyan president is hoping for swift action to secure the release of his country's nationals who remain imprisoned in Tanzania.

Tanzania
Following the post-election crisis, factional wars threaten presidential party

Samia Suluhu Hassan is walking a tightrope. The president's unpredictable foreign policy is straining her relations with her main backer, Jakaya Kikwete. In addition, the Magufuli clan continues to threaten the cohesion of the Chama Cha Mapinduzi party.

Tanzania
Opposition in delicate position in face of Gen Z demands

Many challenges await Chadema and ACT-Wazalendo as they seek to capitalise on the post-election crisis. However, with very few seats in parliament and depleted finances, the two parties are backed into a corner.