Samia demands integrity

DODOMA: PRESIDENT Samia Suluhu Hassan on Tuesday directed newly sworn-in government leaders to uphold integrity, prioritise national interests and ensure effective oversight of key development projects as they assume their new responsibilities.

Speaking during a swearing-in ceremony at Chamwino State House in Dodoma, President Samia said that leadership must be rooted in accountability and service to the people.

“Perform your duties with integrity and place the nation above personal interest,” she said.

President Samia directed the new leaders to work collaboratively with public servants and engage local communities in identifying and addressing challenges swiftly.

She also called on Regional Commissioners to play an active role in mobilising citizen participation in the 2025 General Election, stressing the importance of maintaining peace and stability throughout the process.

Those sworn in include Mr Amos Makalla, appointed Regional Commissioner for Arusha, Dr Khatibu Kazungu, Regional Administrative Secretary for Dodoma, Dr Deo Mwapinga, appointed Ambassador and Public Service Commission Commissioners Salama Aboud Twalib, Dr Laurean Ndumbaro and Hassan Kitenge.

Addressing Mr Makalla, President Samia commended his contributions to the ruling party Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), particularly his unifying role during his time as Ideology and Publicity Secretary. She said his redeployment into public service was aimed at leveraging his experience for the benefit of citizens.

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Recalling his past roles as Regional Commissioner for Mbeya, Katavi, Mwanza and Dar es Salaam, Dr Samia singled Arusha’s strategic importance as a hub for tourism and diplomacy. She tasked him with overseeing major development initiatives, including infrastructure projects tied to the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament.

“The government is investing heavily in AFCONrelated infrastructure. I expect you to ensure timely completion of these projects. Encourage residents to take advantage of the economic opportunities the tournament will bring,” she directed.

Turning to Dr Kazungu, President Samia noted the rapid growth of Dodoma, which now faces increasing demand for housing, water, health, education and other essential services. Citing a sharp rise in population from 1.2 per cent growth in 2012 to 3.9 per cent today, she underscored the need for strong coordination.

“Work closely with Dodoma Regional Commissioner Rosemary Senyamule to manage this growth effectively,” she directed.

She pointed to major national projects underway in the capital, including the Lake Victoria Water Project through Singida, the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), Msalato International Airport, the outer ring road and the development of the new government city. Dr Samia added that Dodoma continues to attract investors, and Dr Kazungu’s experience makes him well-suited to support this transformation.

Congratulating Dr Mwapinga on his ambassadorial appointment, President Samia referenced his previous role as Secretary General of the Forum of Great Lakes Region Parliaments, noting that his new position would elevate Tanzania’s diplomatic presence in the region.

To the newly sworn-in Public Service Commission Commissioners, the president emphasised their crucial role in advising on public sector efficiency and accountability.

She tied their responsibilities to the broader goals of Vision 2050, which envisions a professional, transparent and corruption-free public service that drives national development and partners effectively with the private sector.

“While international assessments show that Tanzania is making progress in the fight against corruption, the problem persists. Public servants must remain vigilant and committed to change,” she said.

She also noted that the government has increased funding for the public service to better align with citizen expectations under Vision 2050. President Samia expressed hope that the new leaders would help shape a public service that acts as a catalyst for national development.