Celebrating Samia’s momentous day

DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA yesterday marked a dual fete as President Samia Suluhu Hassan celebrated her birthday, on the same day the Africa Energy Summit opened in Dar es Salaam.

The summit, which gathers key stakeholders in Africa’s energy sector, aims to address the continent’s energy challenges and explore sustainable solutions for economic growth.

President Samia, known for her transformative leadership, has championed energy reforms as part of her development agenda, making this overlap a symbolic moment for the nation.

Organised at a crucial time, the Africa Energy Summit brings together government officials, industry leaders and investors to deliberate on issues such as renewable energy, access to electricity and energy security.

Tanzania, under President Samia’s leadership, has made strides in expanding energy access to rural areas and investing in renewable energy sources, aligning with the summit’s objectives.

As the country celebrated President Samia’s birtday, messages of goodwill poured in from citizens, political leaders and international dignitaries.

Cybersecurity and forensics expert Yusuph Kileo, expressed his admiration and best wishes, saying President Samia’s impact on Tanzania’s ICT sector is visible.

“Happy Birthday to President Samia Suluhu Hassan. I have always been extremely proud of you and I see a very promising and bright future ahead in the ICT sector with the vision and dream you have for this country,” he said.

Mr Kileo further wished President Samia to live a long life full of blessings and prosperity.

He added, “We are proud of how you have been a strong advocate for ICT in enhancing productivity and driving efficiency in the nation. The remarkable achievements in ICT during your leadership are clear evidence of your commitment and cooperation in advancing technology in Tanzania.”

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CEO of Merck Foundation and President of Merck Foundation More than a Mother, Dr Rasha Kelej, also conveyed birthday wishes to President Samia.

“May you be blessed with a hundred years filled with health, love and success. Enjoy this special day surrounded by your family and friends,” she said.

In addition to these messages, citizens took to social media to celebrate the President’s special day in unique ways. Some shared video clips of themselves cutting cakes in honour of President Samia, showcasing their love and admiration for her leadership.

In Kiteto District, Manyara Region, residents marked the occasion by planting trees as a tribute to President Samia’s birthday.

A ceremony was held at the grounds of the new Kiteto District Council Office, where 500 trees were planted around the area.

Community members also received shade and fruit tree seedlings to plant at their homes. Speaking at the event, officials expressed their gratitude to the people of Kiteto for participating in this important environmental conservation activity.

“This is the second time the Manyara Region has commemorated President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s birthday with a treeplanting initiative,” Manyara Regional Commissioner Queen Sendiga said.

In a message honouring President Samia, Ms Sendiga thanked her for continuing to direct impactful development projects that benefit the Manyara Region.

The summit, which runs for three days, is expected to yield significant policy recommendations and partnerships that will further Tanzania’s goal of becoming an energy hub in East Africa.

This convergence of events underscores the nation’s progress and its commitment to President Samia’s vision for a brighter and more sustainable future.