How does the government ensure that Tanzania’s economic growth benefits all citizens?

Tanzania’s economy has experienced remarkable growth, with a recorded growth rate of 7.2% in 2016, making it one of the fastest-growing economies on the continent. This growth has enabled the government to increase monthly revenue collection from TZS850 billion to TZS1.3 trillion, resulting in the ability to allocate more funds towards development budgets. In fact, development budgets have increased from 26% to 40%. The government has also adopted the Second National Five-Year Development Plan (2016/17-2020/21) with the aim of transforming Tanzania into a middle-income economy by 2025 through increased development and industrialization. Recognizing that citizens are the driving force behind development, the government emphasizes the integrated involvement of workers across various sectors such as agriculture, fishing, livestock, tourism, infrastructure development, peacekeeping, security, social services, and science and technology. The government acknowledges the contributions made by Tanzanian employees and pledges to address challenges faced by the people, improve working and living environments, and ensure that all citizens benefit from their labor. Efforts are underway to establish solid social security frameworks, including a newly developed employment insurance system.

Can you elaborate on the recent developments in diplomatic relations, both domestically and internationally?

This year marks the celebration of 53 years of union with Zanzibar, a union that has resulted in significant achievements in the economic, political, and social sectors. Together, we have made notable improvements in infrastructure, including aviation, maritime, railway, and electrical projects. Internationally, Tanzania is respected and actively participates on regional, continental, and global levels. We have received visits from various international leaders, including presidents from South Africa and several East African Community (EAC) member states. Our Vice President, Prime Minister, and myself have also embarked on several visits abroad, enhancing Tanzania’s international presence. We have signed cooperative agreements across various areas and have made progress in opening embassies in countries where we were previously unrepresented. Strengthening relationships with foreign nations, we actively contribute to international institutions of which we are members. In 2016, Tanzania had the honor of being elected as Chairman of both the EAC and the South African Development Community (SADC) Organ for Politics, Defense, and Security. Through these institutions, we have played crucial roles in peacekeeping missions in Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Lesotho, and South Sudan. Furthermore, we remain committed to implementing initiatives passed at the regional and international levels.

What steps have been taken in the past few months to strengthen transport infrastructure in the country?

During the 2015 election campaign, one of the key promises of our government was to improve transport links through enhanced infrastructure. The fifth phase government is committed to reducing, if not eliminating, traffic congestion in Dar es Salaam. To achieve this, we have prioritized alternative automotive infrastructure in the city, with the successful implementation of the Dar Rapid Transit System, which has been operational for several months. Additionally, we have plans to undertake other transport infrastructure projects. These include the construction of a 7-km bridge from Aga Khan to Coco Beach and the development of highways in Mwenge, Morocco, Magomeni, and Tabata. Moreover, preparations are underway for the construction of the Dar es Salaam Outer Ring Road, a 35-km stretch encircling the city. To support these initiatives, the government has allocated TZS38 billion from the new budget. Alongside road infrastructure, we also have ambitious plans to improve rail transport services in Dar es Salaam, which will play a vital role in alleviating congestion issues within the city.