NDUMBARO RESOLVES SEVEN-YEAR BUSINESS DISPUTE BETWEEN ITALIAN INVESTORS

A long-standing business dispute between Italian investors Michele Paese and Stephane Lambert has finally been resolved after seven years, thanks to the intervention of Minister for Constitution and Legal Affairs, Dr. Damas Ndumbaro.

The agreement was reached on March 4, 2025, during the minister’s visit to exhibition booths as part of the week leading up to International Women's Day celebrations. The national event is set to take place in Arusha on March 8, 2025, with President Samia Suluhu Hassan as the guest of honor.

After inspecting the booths, Minister Ndumbaro, a lawyer and advocate of the High Court, joined legal aid providers under the Mama Samia Legal Aid campaign to listen to and resolve disputes among citizens.

During the session, Michele and Stephane explained how their business partnership had turned sour, leading to threats of violence, including knife attacks. However, under the minister’s mediation, Michele Paese agreed to pay Stephane Lambert $30,000 in exchange for full ownership of the company.

"The minister has greatly helped us. This dispute has dragged on for seven years, but within just an hour, we found a solution. We are truly grateful to President Samia for ensuring justice is served efficiently," said Michele Paese.

Stephane Lambert also expressed his satisfaction with the resolution and committed to honoring the agreement.

"I am very happy to see this dispute finally come to an end. We have been at odds for a long time, but today we have reached a fair and beneficial resolution for both parties," Lambert said.

Minister Ndumbaro instructed government lawyers to work alongside Michele’s legal team to draft a formal agreement, which was scheduled to be signed later that evening at Gran Melia Hotel. Additionally, on March 5 at 4:00 PM, both parties agreed to hand over company offices and assets in the presence of Arusha Regional Commissioner Paul Makonda and the District Commissioner.

Through the Ministry of Constitution and Legal Affairs, the government continues to uphold the rights of investors and citizens, reaffirming its commitment to fostering a fair and conducive business environment in Tanzania.