Analysis of CCM’s 2025 campaign, its economic impact

DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA’S General Elections are scheduled for October 29th, 2025 and the official campaign has already begun.

The CCM’s presidential candidate, President Samia Suluhu Hassan, on August 28, 2025, at Kawe grounds in Kinondoni District, announced her campaign and the parliamentary candidates’ situation, which is likely to unfold for other political parties that will also launch their campaigns.

As an analyst, I decided to examine what was said and determine what would happen to Tanzania’s future if the CCM won this year’s general election with a substantial majority.

I concentrated on the CCM’s 2025–2030 economic agenda and its positive effects, which, in line with the party’s manifesto, presented bold plans across vital sectors and more importantly, how such ambitious commitments could boost economic growth if executed effectively.

In my role as an economics analyst and a member of the analysts’ forum, currently under the interim leadership of Majid Mjengwa following its official registration, I examined the statements made and evaluated Tanzania’s prospects if the CCM secured a majority in this year’s general election.

I focused on the CCM’s 2025–2030 Economic Agenda and its Beneficial Impacts, which, in accordance with the party’s manifesto, outlined ambitious goals in several key areas and—more importantly—how, if properly implemented, such lofty promises could stimulate economic growth.

It is important to remember that on 3rd May 2024, during International Press Freedom Day, President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, among other things, spoke and emphasised the importance of journalists conducting thorough analysis rather than merely reporting without in-depth examination.

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Therefore, as an analyst, I will outline what the manifesto promises and how it could promote economic growth if implemented effectively over the next five years. In considering infrastructure development and connectivity, it is evident that the expansion of significant infrastructure projects in Tanzania, including the Bagamoyo port, Tanga–Arusha–Musoma railway, SGR extensions, regional highways, airports and BRT systems, is poised to yield substantial economic benefits.

These developments are likely to enhance the economic multiplier effect across various sectors of the economy. The effect is a reduction in transportation costs, an enhancement of trade efficiency, promotion of regional integration and encouragement of growth in both industrial and tourism sectors.

Upon examining the agricultural and irrigation modernisation efforts, it becomes evident that increasing irrigated farmland from under 1 to 5 million acres, enhancing fertiliser usage and setting up machinery centres, if carried out as intended, will significantly position Tanzania as a key hub for food production in the region.

The effects of this initiative will enhance food security, increase farmer incomes and promote agricultural output and exports. This will promote initiatives for rural development and poverty alleviation.

Examining the aspects of industrialisation and value addition reveals that establishing industrial parks and special economic zones, along with focusing on refining local natural resources instead of exporting them raw, positions Tanzania advantageously in the global trade market through increased value addition.

The impacts will include not only an increase in local manufacturing, employment and GDP resilience but also the creation of job opportunities and innovations that would significantly benefit the youth in Tanzania. Examining the blue economy and the growth of tourism reveals that investing in fisheries, ports, aquaculture and marine tourism can significantly boost visitor numbers, helping the sector contribute up to 20 per cent to GDP.

The effects will be especially noticeable in boosting coastal economic activities, increasing foreign exchange earnings and promoting inclusive growth. Examining aspects of job creation and human capital development. The creation of 8 million jobs, a significant portion of which are in the formal economy, highlights a strong commitment to vocational training, support for startups and improving mobility for both youth and women.

In a broader context, these developments are likely to reduce unemployment, boost productivity and expand the tax base. Upon reviewing the Energy and LNG Strategy, one can clearly see the target output of 8,000 MW, the commitment to universal rural electrification and the accelerated approach to the LNG project, which includes provisions for local content. Improving energy security will effectively support industrial needs and strategically position Tanzania as a regional energy exporter.

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When considering the digital economy and governance, it is vital to recognise the advancements in AI development and its applications. We should focus on enhancing digitisation across education, agriculture and business sectors, while also aiming for improved governance, a thorough constitutional review and effective leadership in logistics.

The effects will undoubtedly be reflected in increased public service efficiency, higher investor confidence and strengthened structural governance. Examining the social infrastructure, such as water and culture, the initiative to secure 90 per cent access to clean water, improve entertainment venues and support creative industries, is set to significantly benefit the health and well-being of the Tanzanian population.

These changes will lead to higher living standards, better public health and a more diverse economy. Reflecting on the financing and fiscal strategy prompts a consideration of Mwalimu Nyerere’s insightful perspective on the importance of tax contributions.

Focusing on tax collection at 15.6 per cent of GDP, reducing interest rates and enhancing financing for MSMEs will significantly impact Tanzania’s economy. The effects will include increased government revenues, support for development initiatives and the promotion of entrepreneurship.

As an economist and analyst, I find the manifesto commendable for its comprehensiveness and transformative nature. It effectively aligns with the Tanzania Development Vision 2050 and holds great promise for fostering inclusive growth, increasing productivity and reducing poverty by 2030. In my considered view as an analyst, successful implementation will require strong governance, financial prudence and safeguards against corruption.

In summary, CCM’s campaign for 2025–2030 presents a daring development strategy. If carried out effectively, it has the potential to unleash significant economic benefits—driven by infrastructure, energy, skills and institutional reform. Nonetheless, realising these benefits will depend on the quality of governance, inclusive political practices and steady implementation.