JK pushes for action plan to deliver aspiration

DODOMA: FORMER President Jakaya Kikwete has stressed the need for a detailed and results oriented strategy to guide the implementation of the newly launched Vision 2050 in order to achieve its intended goals.

The ambitious 25-year development strategy, launched by President Samia Suluhu Hassan in Dodoma yesterday, aims to build on the economic gains of Vision 2025 and chart a clear path toward sustained growth, industrialisation and improved living standards for all Tanzanians.

“We now look at Vision 2050 with renewed optimism, this is not just a document for policymakers. It is a roadmap for all Tanzanians,” Dr Kikwete said.

However, he warned that achieving the vision’s goals would require more than just setting targets, it would demand committed action and consistent follow-through. “A vision must come with a plan. Without implementation, it will remain just a dream,” Dr Kikwete cautioned. “We need a detailed, results-oriented strategy that guides the execution of this vision year by year.”

Dr Kikwete further said that Tanzania’s newly launched National Development Vision 2050 will enable the country to transition from a lower middle-income economy to upper middle-income status by mid-century.

“This vision will elevate our country from where we are today to a significantly higher stage of development,” Dr Kikwete said yesterday during the official launch of Vision 2050 in Dodoma.

“It is a bold and necessary step that will move Tanzania into the ranks of upper middleincome nations.”

Dr Kikwete praised the vision as a product of both technical expertise and the hopes of ordinary citizens, saying its inclusive and participatory formulation process.

“It was developed with the input of Tanzanians from all walks of life,” he said.

According to international standards, Dr Kikwete explained that a country is considered upper middle-income when its Gross National Income (GNI) per capita surpasses 4,256 US dollars, he also stressed that Vision 2050 sets the stage for Tanzania to meet and potentially exceed that threshold.

“If we continue on a steady path and reach beyond 12,000 US dollars per capita, Tanzania could even attain high-income status,” he said.

Reflecting on Tanzania’s economic journey, Former Head of State credited the late President Benjamin Mkapa for initiating Vision 2025, which enabled the country to rise from low-income to lower middle-income status.

He expressed optimism that Vision 2050, which he referred to as “Dr Samia’s Vision,” would continue that progress.

Dr Kikwete also highlighted the importance of parliamentary endorsement and bipartisan support to ensure continuity beyond election cycles.

In his remarks, Dr Kikwete commended the technical contributions of experts including Prof Kitila Mkumbo and Executive Secretary of Tanzania National Planning Commission Dr Fred Msemwa.

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Dr Msemwa further urged the public to read and engage with Vision 2050, stressing that national development is a collective responsibility.

“I urge all citizens to read, understand and support the Vision 2050. Let us work hand-in-hand with the government to realise it,” he said.