Govt pledges stronger relations with faith groups

KATAVI: THE government has said it will continue working with religious institutions to strengthen social services, promote development and improve the welfare of citizens, saying such partnerships remain vital to the country’s progress.

Prime Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba said yesterday during celebrations marking the 25th anniversary of the Catholic Diocese of Mpanda, held in Katavi Region.

He said the contribution of religious institutions, including the Catholic Church, has been an important part of Tanzania’s development journey, particularly in education, healthcare and spiritual services.

“The government recognises the contribution of the Church and its leaders. When we talk about the development of our country, we cannot do so fully without mentioning the role played by the Church,” he said.

Dr Nchemba said cooperation between the government and religious institutions had helped expand access to social services and strengthen development initiatives across the country.

“Our doors remain open on all matters aimed at improving the welfare of our citizens,” the Prime Minister said, assuring religious institutions of continued engagement and collaboration.

In another development, Dr Nchemba directed Katavi regional leaders and relevant authorities to fast-track the implementation of key infrastructure projects, including roads, water and electricity, to ensure timely delivery of services.

On water services, he instructed the Ministry of Water and authorities overseeing the Mpanda water project to ensure that residents begin receiving a reliable water supply by December 2026.

He also called for the acceleration of construction and improvement of roads linking Katavi Region with neighbouring areas to enhance connectivity and boost economic activities.

The Prime Minister further said the government was taking steps to improve the justice environment, including plans to repeal the law providing for the confiscation of livestock.

ALSO READ: Bagamoyo’s old Catholic Church: Where history, faith and culture meet

He said the move was aimed at addressing longstanding concerns among citizens whose livestock had been seized under existing regulations.

“During this parliamentary session, we are going to repeal the law on livestock confiscation to remove these challenges and protect our citizens,” he said.

Dr Nchemba also directed law enforcement authorities to refrain from confiscating citizens’ means of livelihood, including motorcycles, three-wheelers and vehicles, during enforcement operations.

He urged authorities to adhere to legally prescribed penalties and fines to avoid disrupting people’s livelihoods.

For his part, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Mpanda, Archbishop Eusebius Nzigilwa, thanked the Prime Minister for attending the celebrations, describing his presence as a sign of recognition and respect for the Church’s role in society.

The outgoing Apostolic Nuncio to Tanzania, Archbishop Angelo Accattino, emphasised the importance of continued cooperation between the government and religious institutions in promoting social welfare and development.

The celebrations marked 25 years since the establishment of the Catholic Diocese of Mpanda in 2001, with Church leaders highlighting progress made in pastoral services, education, healthcare and community infrastructure over the years.