Nyerere’s vision for Dodoma taking shape through strategic projects

DODOMA: DODOMA’S ongoing transformation through major strategic projects has been described as a clear reflection of the late Father of the Nation, Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere’s vision of establishing the region as Tanzania’s administrative capital.

This was manifested when the Mwalimu Julius Nyerere Memorial Institute’s top delegation inspected accomplished and ongoing flagship projects in the capital city as Tanzanians prepare to commemorate 26 years since Mwalimu Nyerere’s passing.

In early 1970s, Nyerere envisioned Dodoma as the nation’s administrative and development hub, a dream that was well translated into actuality by his successors.

The Institute’s delegation toured several flagship projects, including the Dodoma Outer Ring Road in Nala, the Msalato International Airport, the Government City in Mtumba, the Benjamin Mkapa Hospital, and the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR).

Speaking during the visit, the Institute’s Deputy Chairperson, Mr Peter Mavunde, said 26 years after Mwalimu’s death, Tanzania continues to uphold his ideals through unity, peace, and the pursuit of national development.

“Every year, the nation honours Mwalimu Nyerere through the Youth Week, the Uhuru Torch Race, and the national commemoration ceremony. This year’s climax will be held in Mbeya Region,” he said.

Mr Mavunde said the Institute decision to mark the anniversary in Dodoma was deliberate, aimed at reflecting on the progress made in realising Mwalimu’s dream of making the region the administrative and development hub of the country.

“As an Institute based in Dodoma, we decided to visit these national strategic projects to witness first-hand the progress achieved and to be ambassadors in telling fellow Tanzanians that the Sixth-Phase Government is doing a commendable job,” he said.

He added that the projects visited stand as living proof of Mwalimu Nyerere’s foresight and the long-term commitment of successive governments to fulfil his vision.

“Every President who came after Mwalimu has contributed in one way or another to achieving this dream. As Tanzanians, we must remain united, honour the Father of the Nation, and support the President in driving national development,” he said.

Mr Mavunde urged citizens to cherish and safeguard national values, including peace, unity, and solidarity, warning against individuals seeking to divide the nation for personal or political gain.

Quoting Mwalimu Nyerere’s famous words, he reminded Tanzanians, especially during this election period, to reject divisive politics based on religion or ethnicity.

“We should be proud that political competition today is based on policies and development agendas. While many of us say we love peace, there is a small group with opposing intentions, we must reject them and defend our unity because peace is the foundation of prosperity and national development,” he emphasised.

He also challenged the youth, the largest group of social media users, to use digital platforms and artificial intelligence (AI) responsibly and patriotically.

“Young people should not waste time on content that adds no value. Let’s be patriotic and use technology wisely for the benefit of our nation,” he said.

Mr Mavunde further urged citizens to turn out in large numbers to exercise their democratic right by voting for leaders committed to advancing the country’s development.

While touring the development projects, the Institute witnessed how Mwalimu’s vision for Dodoma as the heart of the nation is steadily materialising.

The delegation visited the 112-kilometre Dodoma Outer Ring Road, which circles the city and is set to enhance transportation efficiency, reduce congestion, and boost the aesthetic appeal of the capital.

They also toured the Msalato International Airport, described as a game-changer that will serve as a major economic gateway for Dodoma and the nation once completed.

Dodoma’s transformation further extends to the Mtumba government city, a 750bn/- smart urban development project adhering to modern city standards. The project comprises 34 government buildings, with 14 ministries already relocated.

At the Benjamin Mkapa Hospital (BMH), the delegation witnessed another milestone ,a medical facility that symbolises Mwalimu’s vision of accessible and specialised healthcare. The hospital currently provides 20 super-specialised and 17 specialised services, serving patients from across the country.

Moreover, the launch of modern train services under the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) in August 2024 has brought significant economic benefits, reinforcing Dodoma’s position as a logistics and administrative hub.

“Although Mwalimu passed away 26 years ago, his vision continues to guide Tanzania’s journey of growth, unity, and transformation,” Mr Mavunde affirmed.