Zuma off to Tanzania for official state visit

"President Zuma will also co-chair the launch of the South Africa-Tanzania Bi-National Commission (BNC) with President of the United Republic of Tanzania, His Excellency John Pemba Magufuli," presidency said.

"The Agreement establishing the BNC was signed in July 2011 and will be operationalised and officially launched on 11 May 2017. The BNC is the highest mechanism regulating bilateral relations between two the countries."

Zuma is expected to be in Tanzania on May 11 and 12.

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Presidency said that during the visit, the two presidents are expected to hold talks on a range of bilateral issues including a review of the status of the bilateral relations; adoption of strategic interventions to further strengthen the relationship to focus on mutually identified priority issues; and discuss regional and continental peace and security issues.

"South Africa and Tanzania's economic relations continue to grow apace and cooperation encompasses trade and investment, science and technology, agriculture, environment, energy, infrastructure development, retail, amongst others," presidency said.

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"Trade figures between the two countries in 2016 indicated that South African exports to Tanzania were valued at R6.5 billion, whereas imports from Tanzania amounted to R3.5 billion. There are currently over 150 South African companies operating in Tanzania in areas such as the financial services sector, hospitality and leisure as well as ICT and electronics."

Zuma will be accompanied by various Cabinet ministers.