Shaka Hamdu Shaka, District Commissioner of Kilosa in Tanzania’s Morogoro Region, has called for national investment in security as a foundational pillar of sustainable development, urging youth to become active custodians of peace and national unity.
Speaking at a graduation ceremony for 114 reservist soldiers comprising the 20th cohort of the National Service Reserve Force DC Shaka praised the Tanzania People’s Defence Forces (TPDF) for their commitment to professionalism and civic duty.
The four-month training program was conducted at the Mvumi Primary School training grounds in Kilosa.
“Security is not merely a defense imperative it is a precondition for economic transformation, social cohesion, and national resilience,” said Shaka.
“The Constitution mandates all citizens to defend the sovereignty and unity of the United Republic of Tanzania, and this cohort of reservists has exemplified that patriotic duty.”he added
Shaka emphasized that the military training provided to the reservists should transcend technical skills and become a lived code of discipline, service, and public responsibility both in times of peace and crisis.
“Beyond the uniform, I urge you to uphold the values of discipline, loyalty, and patriotism within your communities. When the nation calls, answer with unwavering commitment and prioritize national interests over personal gain,” he added.
He further called upon the newly graduated reservists to contribute to national efforts in crisis response, law enforcement cooperation, and public safety, particularly by identifying and reporting early signs of criminal activity.
Tanzania’s Morogoro Region, including Kilosa District, is one of the country’s most important agricultural and resource-rich zones. Shaka highlighted that economic growth in such regions hinges on continued peace and security.
“Morogoro and Kilosa are central to Tanzania’s economic future, especially in agriculture. But development cannot thrive without security. We must make national security an enduring agenda supported by every generation,” he noted.
Shaka positioned the Reserve Force as a strategic buffer within Tanzania’s broader national defense architecture underscoring its role in complementing formal military operations during periods of heightened need.
“The Reserve Army plays a vital role in safeguarding national stability and ensuring that Tanzania remains united, secure, and development-focused,” he said.
“This vision is at the core of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s leadership as Commander-in-Chief, and I call on all graduates to become ambassadors of peace, unity, and progress.”he added
The remarks come at a time when Tanzania is prioritizing youth empowerment and national service to build a resilient civic infrastructure, capable of withstanding regional and global security pressures.