A new survey by the Africa Centre for International Policy (CIP–Africa) shows that Tanzanians are deeply concerned about access to water, quality education, infrastructure, healthcare, and anti-corruption measures as the country heads to the polls on October 29.
The opinion poll, conducted between September 30 and October 5 across 19 regions including 17 mainland regions and Zanzibar sampled 1,976 respondents, evenly split between men and women. Ages ranged from 18 to over 55, with education levels from primary to tertiary.
CIP Director of Research and Publication, Thabit Mlangi, said the survey aimed to capture citizens’ priorities and sentiments ahead of the presidential, parliamentary, and local government elections.
“This survey reflects not just voting intentions, but the issues Tanzanians want the next government to address,” he said.
Key findings show that 78 percent of respondents ranked access to clean water and quality education as top priorities.
Road and bridge infrastructure was cited by 69 percent, healthcare services by 63 percent, and anti-corruption efforts by 60 percent.
Strengthening democracy was a priority for 47 percent. Residents in Ilala and Segerea raised concerns over rising drug use among students, urging decisive government action.
The survey also highlighted active citizen engagement in politics. About 81 percent of respondents follow political developments closely, and 53 percent have attended political rallies, mostly CCM events.
Meanwhile, 83 percent confirmed they intend to vote in the upcoming elections, reflecting strong civic participation.
On policy influence, 46 percent said party policies shaped their choices, while 54 percent reported no impact. Preliminary results indicate strong support for the CCM presidential candidate at 84.5 percent. CIP is still analyzing parliamentary and local government data, with full results expected next week.
The poll also found broad confidence in the electoral process, with 91 percent expressing satisfaction with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), citing transparency and diligence in preparations.
Mlangi concluded: “These results show that Tanzanians are ready to vote and expect leaders who will deliver on real issues affecting their daily lives—water, education, health, and integrity in governance.”