KIGOMA: VICE-PRESIDENT Dr Philip Mpango has asked the public to participate fully in the preparation of the National Development Vision (NDV) 2050 so that their views and opinions could be accommodated in the country development roadmap.
Dr Mpango asked the citizens to turn out in numbers to air their views, saying the NDV 2050 is being prepared by involving the public since the document belongs to the citizens and not for few indi- viduals in the country.
According to the President’s Office (Planning and Investment), over 1,200,000 views have been collected this week through various opinions-gathering platforms including social media, web- site and others such as mobile phones and physical outreach.
However, more than 7,790 households throughout the country have been able to contribute their views.
Speaking on Friday during the working tour of Kasulu District, Kigoma Region, Dr Mpango emphasised on the importance of people’s participation in preparing the new vision.
“I would like to encourage citizens to turn out in numbers to give their views on the new National Development Vision (NDV) so that their opinions can be utilised in preparing the new vision,” Dr Mpango said.
In another development, Dr Mpango encouraged citizens to participate in registering and updating their information in the Permanent Voters Register (PVR).
According to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the exercise is set to kick off on July 20th this year by involving three regions including Kigoma, Tabora and Katavi.
In line with this, more than five million new voters across the country are expected to be registered in the register.
Also read: Let’s fully participate in Vision 2050 preparations
Dr Mpango also encour- aged citizens to peacefully participate in the forthcoming local government election and general election.
During his visit, Dr Mpango also directed business officers in the councils not to be an obstacle to business persons when doing their jobs.
Dr Mpango issued the instruction after received complaints over excessive use of force when relocating traders within Kasulu District.
“Using excessive force, including tear gas, against un- armed citizens is unfair and unacceptable,” VP told the Business Officers in Kasulu District.
He added: “Business officers need to educate the public on various operations that are expected to be carried out in order to eliminate confusion during its implementation.”
Moreover, the VP assured Kigoma residents that the government is committed to continue with the implementation of various development projects including roads to ensure the region is opening up for businesses and economic growth.
Furthermore, Dr Mpango reminded the residents on the importance of protecting the environment and the nature.
He instructed District councils to effectively implement bylaws to ensure environmental preservation and take legal measures against those who engage in environmental degradation activities.
He asked religious leaders and traditional leaders to continue raising awareness on environmental conservation, including refraining from burning forests.
However, the VP warned government officials and local government leaders to stop harassing citizens by beating them and confiscating their crops on the grounds of causing damage to environment.
He said instead, the suspect must be arraigned for legal measures to take course.
