MPs salute Samia

• Commend President over 153rd IPU Assembly success

DODOMA: THE National Assembly has unanimously passed a resolution congratulating President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan for facilitating Tanzania’s hosting of the 153rd Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly, describing the event as a major boost to the country’s parliamentary diplomacy and international standing.

The resolution was unanimously adopted following a motion moved by Mtama MP Nape Nnauye during a parliamentary session that began yesterday in Dodoma.

Held in Arusha from October 5 to 9, 2026, the IPU Assembly attracted 2,044 participants from more than 150 countries, including 56 Speakers, 51 Deputy Speakers and 624 parliamentarians.

Presenting the motion, Mr Nnauye said the meeting has demonstrated Tanzania’s capacity to host major international events while giving delegates an opportunity to experience the country’s peace, security and development first-hand.

“Tanzania remains an island of peace. Despite everything that has been said, we remain a peaceful nation. That is why the international community trusted us, came to Tanzania and successfully held this major meeting before departing safely. We have a responsibility to continue protecting this peace,” he said.

He added that the delegates’ direct experience of Tanzania had deepened their understanding of the country and would enable them to share their experiences with people in their home countries.

Mr Nnauye said the assembly has also created opportunities to strengthen relations between Tanzania’s Parliament and legislatures around the world, while enhancing the country’s position in international diplomacy.

He said the meeting provided a platform for discussions on global peace and security, peaceful conflict resolution, respect for international law and the strengthening of democratic institutions.

Mr Nnauye also highlighted women’s participation, which accounted for 39.4 per cent of the parliamentarians attending the assembly, stressing the need to expand opportunities for women, young people and persons with disabilities in leadership and decision-making.

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He said the Arusha Communiqué has left an important legacy by emphasising good governance, inclusion, trust and equal opportunities.

Mr Nnauye urged the government to build on the meeting’s achievements through effective legislation, accountability and stronger public oversight.

“The assembly also enhanced Arusha’s profile as a centre for diplomacy and international dialogue, while creating business opportunities in hospitality, aviation, trade and employment,” he said.

Commenting on the resolution, Speaker of the National Assembly Mussa Zungu said hosting the IPU Assembly has brought considerable honour to Tanzania and strengthened its international standing.

He said the meeting went beyond the adoption of resolutions, providing an opportunity for parliamentary leaders to discuss investment opportunities in Tanzania.

Mr Zungu recalled that a large promotional banner featuring President Samia alongside a tourism expert in a wildlife park attracted delegates’ attention and impressed them with the President’s personal involvement in promoting tourism.

“Speakers were impressed by the President’s address, delivered by the Prime Minister, which outlined the country’s development achievements and economic progress, including improvements in health, water and electricity services,” he said.

He added that discussions during the assembly also highlighted Tanzania’s strategic importance as an economic partner to major economies.

Other legislators also commended the government’s diplomatic efforts and the successful organisation of the international gathering.

Nzega Urban MP Hussein Bashe (CCM) said the successful hosting of the assembly reflected President Samia’s vision and diplomatic efforts, noting that Tanzania’s decision to seek IPU leadership has ultimately helped secure the opportunity to host the meeting.

He urged the government and the private sector to turn the relationships established during the assembly into tangible economic benefits by attracting investment, expanding tourism and trade, and creating jobs for Tanzanians.

For her part, Same East MP Anne Kilango Malecela (CCM) applauded President Dr Samia for agreeing to host the assembly.

She also commended the Speaker and thanked the British High Commissioner for selecting him to lead the meeting, while recognising the contribution of Arusha residents and regional leaders in providing a peaceful and secure environment for delegates.

Bunda Urban MP, Esther Bulaya (CCM) commended the government, the Speaker and the Parliamentary Secretariat for working with the IPU Secretariat to ensure the successful organisation of the assembly.

Ms Bulaya said the event has enabled Tanzania to demonstrate its commitment to peace, stability and good governance.

She also credited President Samia’s diplomatic efforts with helping secure the election of Dr Tulia Ackson as IPU President.

“Despite attempts to portray Tanzania negatively, the assembly has provided delegates with an opportunity to experience the country’s peace and hospitality and visit its tourist attractions,” she said.