Workers’ role lauded as 1.105bn/- raised for May Day

DODOMA: PRIME Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba has said the government recognises and values the contribution of workers in both the public and private sectors in promoting the country’s economy and overall development.

The Premier made the remarks on Monday in Dodoma during the official preparatory event for May Day 2026, which will be held at national level in Njombe Region.

Dr Mwigulu said the government continues to honour workers across the country, noting their significant role in national development.

During the preliminary event, a total of 1.105bn/- was raised. The Prime Minister said the funds will assist the host region in completing preparations for the event.

He further commended the Trade Union Congress of Tanzania (TUCTA) for its creativity in ensuring that May Day celebrations leave a lasting impact in host regions.

“Our colleagues at TUCTA have introduced an idea that May Day activities should leave a mark in the respective region through implementation of various projects, as was done during the 2025 celebrations in Singida where the Bombadia Stadium was constructed and is now of great benefit to the people of Singida. Njombe is also preparing to leave a major legacy,” said Dr Nchemba.

On his part, the Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (Labour, Youth, Employment and Persons with Disabilities), Deus Sangu, said preparations for this year’s May Day exhibitions are progressing well, adding that all preparations will be completed on time despite the remaining days.

The President of the Trade Union Congress of Tanzania (TUCTA), Tumaini Nyamhokya, expressed appreciation for the strengthening cooperation between the Government and workers’ unions, saying it has contributed to stability among workers in the country.

Njombe Regional Commissioner Anthony Mtaka, said the celebrations present a major opportunity not only for the region but also for the wider Southern Highlands zone, noting that at least 5,000 visitors are expected to attend the national May Day celebrations.

During his recent visit to the Tanzania Standard (Newspapers) Limited (TSN) offices at Tazara in Dar es Salaam, the RC said the region is intensifying efforts to promote a green economy as a key strategy to attract investment and improve the livelihoods of residents ahead of International Workers’ Day. The visit at TSN aimed to discuss plans for collaboration ahead of the May Day celebrations. He said the region is leveraging environmentally sustainable economic activities, particularly agriculture, to drive growth and create opportunities for citizens.

“This year, our region will host the International Workers’ Day at the national level. Instead of the usual celebrations, we will use the period leading up to May Day to showcase available opportunities and demonstrate how Tanzanians can benefit from them to improve their economic well-being,” he said.

According to Mtaka, hosting the national celebrations presents a strategic opportunity to highlight Njombe’s economic potential.

“We aim to use this platform to showcase investment opportunities, promote green economy practices and attract both local and international investors,” he added.

He noted that Njombe has positioned itself as a hub for green economic activities, with residents actively engaged in the cultivation of crops such as potatoes, avocados, onions and timber.

These products supply local markets and are also exported, contributing significantly to household incomes and the national economy. The Regional Commissioner emphasised that the government is encouraging more people, particularly public servants and entrepreneurs, to learn from Njombe’s success.

Many residents have transformed their lives through agriculture and related value chains, demonstrating that sustainable practices can lead to longterm prosperity.

In addition to agriculture, authorities are promoting small and medium enterprises linked to the green economy.

The expected influx of visitors during the Workers’ Day celebrations is anticipated to boost sectors such as hospitality, transport and food services, further stimulating the local economy