Significant progress in addressing Union vexes
TANZANIA: TANZANIA marks the 61st anniversary of the Union between the former Tanganyika and Zanzibar, with the government cherishing significant strides in resolving longstanding union-related issues.
These efforts aim to strengthen national unity and improve governance, reflecting a commitment to resolving both historical and emerging challenges.
Over the years, despite its endurance, the Union on both sides has faced various contentious issues; however, these have been resolved.
According to the Minister in the Vice-President’s Office (Union and Environment), Engineer Hamad Masauni, a major milestone has been the reduction of Union-related issues from 25 to just three, which are currently in various stages of resolution.
Eng Masauni attributed the achievement to the close collaboration between ministers and permanent secretaries from both governments.
Eng Masauni also credited President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s ‘4Rs’ philosophy—Reconciliation, Resilience, Reforms, and Rebuilding for playing a pivotal role in strengthening the Union and resolving 13 Union issues during her term.
“Since its establishment, the Union has brought about remarkable progress in political, social, and economic spheres. It represents the spirit of brotherhood and enhances Tanzania’s cooperation with other countries, particularly during this era of economic diplomacy,” he added.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to resolving these issues, stating that both the Union and Zanzibar governments are actively working towards solutions.
The establishment of the Joint Committee has facilitated structured and inclusive discussions, contributing to the peaceful coexistence of both governments within the Union.
Beyond Union-specific issues, the government is also navigating broader governance and economic concerns. Following a nationwide traders’ strike in June 2024, the government responded swiftly by engaging the Tanzania Traders Association (JWT) and addressing 15 out of 41 grievances.
These included suspending harsh enforcement measures by the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), improving communication on tax laws and upgrading the Tanzania Customs Integrated System (TANCIS) to enhance transparency and efficiency in tax administration.
In the labour sector, the Trade Union Congress of Tanzania (TUCTA) has been vocal in demanding reforms. Their concerns centre on inequalities between public and private sector workers, especially in social security contributions and insurance benefits.
The union has also urged the government to settle outstanding salaries and severance packages for laid-off employees while ensuring timely pension payments to retirees.
In an interview with the Daily News, Dr Adam Mnyavance, a political analyst specialising in public administration and governance, commended the government’s proactive stance.
“The government’s consistent engagement in addressing union issues indicates a strong commitment to upholding national unity. Continuous dialogue, particularly on sensitive financial and administrative matters, is essential for sustaining peace between the two governments,” he said.
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Political analyst Lilian Raphael added that social and labour equity is equally critical. “Labour concerns, if unaddressed, can create deep economic and social rifts,” she explained. “Ensuring that all workers, regardless of sector, are treated fairly strengthens public trust and national productivity.”
As the country marks this year’s Union Day, Tanzania’s push to resolve political and economic grievances underscores a renewed focus on unity, dialogue, and inclusivity.
While challenges persist, the coordinated efforts between government bodies, civil society, and policy experts suggest a hopeful path forward—one that honours the past while actively shaping a more equitable future for all Tanzanians.
