Somalia, Tanzania Sign Visa Facilitation Agreement. Dar es Salam, Tanzania — City, Country — On February 16, 2026, the Federal Republic of Somalia and the United Republic of Tanzania marked a significant development in their bilateral relations by signing a Migration MoU that includes visa-free and visa-on-arrival arrangements. This agreement is a testament to the growing partnership and strong bilateral ties between the two nations.
The MoU, which focuses on migration management, outlines visa — free travel for diplomats and government officials, with regular passport holders receiving entry within 24 hours. This move is expected to strengthen ties in diplomacy, security, and trade, as well as promote tourism, investment, education exchange, and business mobility.
The agreement also aims to enhance institutional cooperation and foster people — to-people connections between Somalia and Tanzania.
According to official statements, the implementation of direct flights between the two countries, agreed upon last year, is also in the pipeline. This development is anticipated to further deepen economic and social ties between Somalia and Tanzania. Somalia expressed its deep appreciation for Tanzania’s partnership, solidarity, and leadership in advancing regional cooperation and stability.
The Somali government remains committed to strengthening collaboration in security, trade, investment, aviation, and people — to-people engagement for the mutual benefit of both countries.
The agreement comes as both Somalia and Tanzania have faced challenges with migration and border security in the past. Somalia’s struggle with instability and insecurity, combined with Tanzania’s status as a popular destination for refugees and asylum seekers, has necessitated a coordinated approach to migration management.
Regional officials confirmed that the signing ceremony was attended by the heads of immigration authorities from both countries, indicating the importance of the agreement for both nations.
The agreement is part of broader efforts to deepen cooperation among member states of the East African Community. It is expected to bolster diplomatic, security, and trade ties between Somalia and Tanzania, as well as contribute to the overall stability and economic growth of the region.
Further details regarding the specific categories of travelers eligible for visa — free or visa-on-arrival arrangements, the monitoring and enforcement mechanisms of the agreement, and its expected impact on security and economic aspects of both countries are yet to be disclosed.
The agreement has been welcomed by local sources, with Shabellemedia. Com and allafrica.
Com emphasizing the deal’s role in bolstering diplomatic, security, and trade ties.
Eastleighvoice. Co.
Ke highlights the visa — free and visa-on-arrival arrangements as a significant feature of the deal, intended to expand cooperation and increase movement.
Hiiraan. Com mentions the agreement’s facilitation of travel and the intention to boost cooperation, indicating a positive view of the agreement.
Source: Somalia, Tanzania Sign Migration Cooperation Agreement — shabellemedia.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 4*
