Biteko calls for prayers for the Nation, President Samia

DAR ES SALAAM — Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy Doto Biteko has urged Tanzanians to continue praying for the nation and President Samia Suluhu Hassan to help her fulfill her responsibilities effectively.

“Let us keep praying for the church, our country, and our president, who is doing an incredible job. Those of us working closely with her can see it,” Biteko said.

He made the remarks on Feb. 16, 2025, while attending a service at the Africa Inland Church Chang’ombe in Dar es Salaam.

Biteko also called on Tanzanians to uphold peace and unity, especially as the country prepares for its upcoming general elections for president, members of parliament, and local government representatives. He emphasized that the election should not divide the nation based on differing political views.

“God has blessed us with a peaceful country, and we must safeguard it jealously because losing peace comes at a high price. Let us also pray for neighboring countries facing difficulties, as their struggles could one day affect us. We all remember how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the entire world,” he said.

Biteko noted that the government is continuously improving policies to align with global needs, citing recent reforms in the education sector.

“We are developing a National Development Vision, and we traveled across the country to gather opinions from different groups to shape the Tanzania we want over the next 25 years,” he said.

During the service, Pastor Joseph Mayala Mitinje urged congregants to remain prayerful, stating that the service was dedicated to praying for the government and other needs.

“In order to serve God well, we all have needs in different areas of our lives. This morning, we lift those needs to the Lord in prayer,” Mitinje said.

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Pastor Andrew Chad from the United Kingdom, who also preached during the service, highlighted the close ties between churches in the U.K. and Tanzania, which have allowed him to continue spreading the gospel in the country.

He shared that he first came to Tanzania to preach at the AICT church in Mpanda, Rukwa, where he served for eight years before helping establish churches in different regions, including Tanga, where he ministered for six years.

“We were called to Tanga to preach to the Digo people and teach them about God’s love,” Chad said.

He added that God can use anyone for His glory and urged Christians to live with love and generosity toward others.