VP calls for clerics to pray for nation, unity

DODOMA: VICE-PRESIDENT, Dr Emmanuel Nchimbi has called on religious leaders and all Tanzanians to use the holy month of Ramadan and Lent to pray for the nation, its leaders and political parties, urging them to work together in building a united country based on love and harmony.

The Vice-President made the remarks during an Iftar he hosted for various residents of the Dodoma Region together with government leaders, religious institutions, and members of Chama Cha Mapinduzi.

Ambassador Nchimbi emphasised on the spirit of patriotism among all citizens and that the love for the country becomes deeply rooted in the hearts of every Tanzanian so they can live in harmony and cooperation under Samia Suluhu Hassan.

The Vice- President also noted that one of the important commitments people can make during this season of repentance is to promise God that every Tanzanian will make efforts to unite fellow citizens in building one nation based on love.

The Iftar was attended by various leaders, including the Minister of State in the Vice President’s Office (Union and Environment), Mr Hamad Masauni and Secretary-General of Chama cha Mapinduzi, Dr Asha-Rose Migiro.

Others are Minister for Minerals, Anthony Mavunde; members of the Reconciliation Committee, religious leaders, Members of Parliament from the Dodoma Region, district commissioners and members of the public.

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His message echoes an earlier call by President Samia Suluhu Hassan shortly after the start of Ramadan and the Lenten season, when she urged Muslims and Christians across Tanzania to unite in prayer for national peace, solidarity and prosperity as the country experiences the rare overlap of the two holy periods.

In a message shared through her official platforms, the Head of State conveyed “Ramadan Mubarak” wishes to the Muslim Ummah and blessings to Christians observing Lent, highlighting the spiritual significance of the concurrent journeys of faith.

Addressing Muslims observing Ramadan, President Samia encouraged believers to thank Almighty God for granting them the opportunity to witness the sacred month once again.

“I wish all Muslims a blessed Ramadan. Let us bow in gratitude to Almighty God for enabling us to reach this holy month in faith,” she said.

Drawing from the Qur’an (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:183), she urged believers to reflect on fasting as a path to attaining God-consciousness, while praying for the nation’s continued stability and wellbeing.

To Christians beginning Lent with Ash Wednesday, President Samia described the season as an important spiritual journey marked by reflection, repentance and renewal of faith.

“I wish all Christians a blessed and fruitful Lent. May this sacred journey you begin with Ash Wednesday strengthen your relationship with God and inspire continued prayers for our country’s peace, unity and prosperity,” she said.

She further encouraged Christians to reflect on teachings from the Bible, particularly Joel 2:12–13, which calls believers to return to God with sincere repentance, fasting and humility.