DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA’S Chief Justice (CJ), Prof Ibrahim Juma, has underscored the essential role of mindset transformation in developing and implementing the nation’s Vision 2050.
Prof Juma made the remarks in Dar es Salaam on Wednesday while discussing the formulation of the National Vision 2050 with a team of experts led by Dr Asha-Rose Migiro.
He stressed that without addressing attitudes and mindsets, any strategic vision risks remaining unfulfilled.
“Mindset and attitude are crucial factors to consider. We may have an excellent vision and robust plans, but if we do not address attitudes, it could hinder our progress,” he remarked.
Reflecting on the shortcomings of previous national visions, Prof Juma noted that while the importance of mindset change was recognised, it was not effectively implemented. He called for a shift from rhetoric to action, particularly in adhering to the rule of law.
“When we discuss the rule of law, it should not be just lip service. Our daily activities must reflect our commitment to it,” he stated. He also warned against a prevalent resistance to positive initiatives that could impede Tanzania’s growth. “There is often a culture of resistance. Even when everything is in place, this resistance can prevent progress,” Prof Juma observed.
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He highlighted the need for a focused approach to implementing the various visions Tanzania currently subscribes to, including those for Zanzibar, Africa and the United Nations.
“We are surrounded by multiple visions. For example, Zanzibar has its development vision, Africa has its own and the United Nations has its agenda. How do we align these so we don’t lose focus?” he questioned.
Five Key Goals for Tanzania’s Vision 2050 The visit was led by Ambassador Dr Asha-Rose Migiro, head of the expert team gathering public input for the Vision 2050 draft. Dr Migiro shared five key objectives identified by Tanzanians as priorities for the nation’s future.
She revealed that citizens called for a society that promotes well-being for all, justice, self-reliance, unity and Tanzania’s role as a global partner and competitor.
“The desire to remain a united and cohesive nation was emphasised as the single most crucial of all five objectives,” she stated.
Furthermore, Tanzanians expressed the need for the Vision to reinforce nationalism and promote specific values. Dr Migiro outlined nearly ten principles that would form the foundation of Vision 2050, including respect for the constitution, national sovereignty, citizen equality and integrity.
Dr Migiro emphasised transparency as a fundamental principle, especially in government activities and the management of public resources.
“The transparency we seek involves openness in government operations and how resources, such as public funds and projects, are managed,” she explained.
She also highlighted the protection of national resources and the importance of recognising and nurturing the contributions of individual Tanzanians.
“Protecting the efforts of individual Tanzanians will be a key component of our national identity,” she added.
Four Core Pillars of Vision 2050 The team’s analysis of public input has led to the identification of four main pillars for Vision 2050: building a resilient and inclusive economy, improving social services, preserving the environment and promoting good governance.
“Citizens emphasised the need for quality education, healthcare, decent housing and food security,” Dr Migiro elaborated.
Additionally, with the impacts of climate change becoming increasingly apparent, environmental preservation and sustainable resource use were highlighted as critical issues.