TUCTA rallies Vision 2050
NJOMBE: THE Trade Union Congress of Tanzania (TUCTA) has expressed its commitment to mobilising workers across the country to actively engage in the implementation of the National Development Vision 2050.
The congress also called on workers and the public to uphold patriotism, peace, unity and solidarity as key pillars in achieving the country’s long-term development goals. Speaking during the celebration to mark the International Workers’ Day held yesterday in Njombe, TUCTA Secretary General Hery Mkunda said workers have a central role to play in driving the vision.
He said key priorities include increasing per capita income to 20m/-, eradicating extreme poverty and ensuring that at least 50 per cent of the national workforce is engaged in formal and decent employment.
“Patriotism, peace, solidarity, stability and inclusiveness are essential in achieving the Vision 2050 goals and it is my call to all workers and citizens to safeguard these values with strong commitment,” said Mr Mkunda.
He further said that the government has already initiated several measures to support the implementation of the vision, including improving education curricula to enhance skills, strengthening school infrastructure and refining policies, guidelines and programmes such as universal health coverage, the decent work country programme and tripartite dialogue frameworks.
Mr Mkunda also pointed to achievements realised through collaboration between the government and social partners, including the reduction of income tax on minimum wages from 9 per cent to 8 per cent, an increase in collective bargaining agreements and the introduction of incentive schemes for public sector employees.
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He added that further progress includes reforms in social security funds, continued recruitment to reduce workforce shortages and improved efficiency in public service delivery, alongside the promotion of 631,000 public servants between 2021 and 2025.
On the international front, Mr Mkunda commended the government for upholding regional and global labour standards in line with the International Labour Organisation, noting that Tanzania has ratified about 90 per cent of core conventions and continues to play an active role in international labour governance.
TUCTA President, Tumaini Nyamhokya also commended the government for promoting public servants and expanding overseas employment opportunities, saying that more than 6,000 young people have secured jobs abroad.
However, he said that some challenges persist, particularly for employees who pursue further studies but are denied promotions and salary adjustments upon returning to work.
Mr Nyamhokya also said that although about 80 per cent of employers have implemented the new minimum wage, some have yet to comply, stressing that action should be taken to ensure full adherence. International Labour Organisation (ILO) Regional Director for East Africa, Carolyn Mugala, commended Tanzania for its leadership and commitment to advancing decent work as a foundation for inclusive growth and social justice through social dialogue.
She reaffirmed the ILO’s continued support in eliminating child labour, strengthening labour inspection systems and promoting decent work, particularly for domestic workers.
The Chairperson of the Association of Tanzania Employers (ATE), Omar Mgaya, underscored the importance of creating a conducive business and investment environment to support decent job creation and sustainable development.
He also commended the establishment of the Presidential Commission on Tax Reforms, noting that implementing its recommendations will help expand formal employment and stimulate economic growth.
