Chalamila urges residents to safeguard Dar es Salaam’s strategic role

DAR ES SALAAM: DAR ES SALAAM Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila has called on residents to safeguard peace and security in the region, citing its strategic importance to Tanzania’s economy, diplomacy and regional trade.

He said Dar es Salaam should remain a centre of economic and diplomatic activities rather than become a source of violence and instability, warning that unrest could disrupt livelihoods and affect innocent citizens.

Speaking to journalists, Mr Chalamila said the consequences of violence would extend beyond those directly involved, affecting families, parents, young people and other members of the community.

He said Dar es Salaam plays a critical role in Tanzania’s economic development, contributing more than 17 per cent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The Regional Commissioner noted that the region also serves as a diplomatic hub, a gateway for tourism and a major driver of economic growth.

He stressed that protecting peace in Dar es Salaam was essential not only for Tanzania but also for neighbouring countries that depend on the region for access to essential goods and services.

Among the countries relying on Dar es Salaam as a major trade and transport gateway are the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Malawi and Zambia.

He said the region facilitates the movement of various commodities, including petroleum products and industrial goods, making its stability important for regional economic activities.

Mr Chalamila warned that any disruption to peace and security could affect the transportation of goods, service delivery and business operations linking Tanzania with neighbouring countries.

He therefore urged residents to work together in maintaining peace and stability to ensure Dar es Salaam continues to serve as a key economic and diplomatic gateway for Tanzania and the wider region.