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Tanzania Invites Italian Coffee Companies to Boost Investment in Production
Strengthening Africa-Italy Coffee Partnerships
ROME, ITALY: Tanzania has officially invited Italian coffee firms to invest in the country’s coffee production sector to enhance value addition throughout the supply chain.
The invitation was extended by Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, Tanzania’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, during a high-profile conference in Rome. The event, jointly hosted by Italy and the European Union, aimed to strengthen collaboration between Europe and Africa.
Key Players in Attendance
The conference brought together major industry stakeholders including:
- Coffee giants Illy and Lavazza
- Financial institutions (IFC and CDP)
- Representatives from FAO and IFAD
Strategic Development Plans
The forum served to coordinate implementation of two major initiatives:
- Italy’s Mattei Plan for Africa
- EU’s Global Gateway initiative
These complementary strategies aim to create tailored partnerships addressing specific needs of African nations.
Tanzania’s Coffee Investment Appeal
Minister Kombo highlighted Tanzania’s ideal conditions for coffee cultivation and processing:
“With prosperity in Africa, we can address climate challenges, as the vast forests on the continent serve as essential tools for carbon sequestration. Moreover, increasing coffee production can strengthen environmental protection efforts while creating job opportunities for youth.”
The Minister specifically called attention to the complete coffee value chain:
“Lavazza and Illy always talk about coffee beans turning into beverages, but they don’t talk about the journey from the land to the bean because without the bean, there is no Lavazza, no Illy.”
Call to Action
Kombo urged concrete planning and implementation:
“Let’s not be political. Let’s put in place an action plan, set timelines for implementation, and ensure we meet those deadlines. This is achievable.”
Industry Recognition
Solomon Rutega, Executive Secretary of the InterAfrican Coffee Organization, praised Tanzania’s recent hosting of the G25 Coffee Conference, noting its alignment with Italy-Africa cooperation goals in the coffee sector.
Related: Tanzania pledges stronger cooperation with EU for sustained growth
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