President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Samia Suluhu Hassan, officially opened the 13th Parliament today, urging all citizens, leaders, and stakeholders to unite in advancing the nation’s democratic, economic, and social agenda.
In her address, President Samia began by expressing gratitude to God for life and the opportunity to convene Parliament.
She remembered those who lost their lives in the unrest following the October 29 general elections, offering condolences to bereaved families, prayers for the injured, and support for those who suffered property losses.
She announced the formation of a Commission of Inquiry to investigate the causes of the disturbances, emphasizing that its findings will guide national dialogue and reconciliation efforts.
“I am personally saddened by these events and urge all Tanzanians to embrace unity, participation, and reconciliation as we move forward,” she said.
The President congratulated Speaker Mussa Azzan Zungu, Deputy Speaker Daniel Baran Sillo, newly sworn-in Prime Minister Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba, and all Members of Parliament for being entrusted by the people to serve in this historic 13th Parliament.
She highlighted that 56.7% of MPs are new, with women now representing 40.5% of the legislature a significant increase that reflects the growing role of women in leadership.
President Samia also acknowledged the successful conduct of the general elections, praising the Electoral Commission for managing the process efficiently despite challenges.
She reminded citizens that voting remains the safest and most effective way to influence leadership.
Addressing the youth, the President urged them to reject influences that lead to violence and destruction, assuring that those who unintentionally followed illegal acts will be pardoned, citing both moral and legal grounds.
“Learn from our experiences. Tanzania’s democracy is maturing, and we continue to refine it in a way that respects our customs and traditions,” she noted.
On governance and service delivery, President Samia stressed the need for public servants to be close to citizens, understand their challenges, and deliver tangible results.
Within the first 12 days of her second term, she highlighted that 7,000 teaching positions and 5,000 health sector jobs had already been announced.
The government is also preparing pilot programs for universal health insurance and digitization of health services to ensure quality care reaches both urban and rural communities.
Youth and women empowerment are central to her administration’s agenda. She announced a TZS 200 billion allocation to support youth and women-led economic activities, alongside the creation of Youth Investment Windows to provide affordable capital for entrepreneurial ventures.
Economic growth strategies will focus on sectors employing large numbers of Tanzanians, including agriculture, tourism, industry, construction, and mining, aiming to raise national GDP growth from 5.6% to over 7% by 2030.
Agriculture plans include expanding irrigation, mechanization, post-harvest storage, and value-chain development to enhance food security and export potential.
Significant investments will also target livestock, fisheries, and industrialization. Livestock production is set to expand from 3.46 million to 6 million acres, while fisheries development will include modern ports and aquaculture support to increase incomes.
Industrial growth aims to raise manufacturing GDP from 4.8% to 9%, with special economic zones generating hundreds of thousands of jobs.
In social services, the President emphasized continued investment in water, education, and health. National access to clean water has reached 91.6% in urban areas and 85% in rural areas, with a goal of full coverage.
Healthcare improvements include the expansion of Muhimbili National Hospital, establishment of a National Infectious Disease Hospital in Kagera, and boosting pharmaceutical production and preventive programs.
Education reforms will focus on skills-based learning, STEM subjects, and greater access to higher education through regional campuses and vocational training centers.
“The campaign promise of ‘Work and Dignity: Moving Forward’ guides our initiatives. All interventions aim to enhance the value of human life, expand economic opportunities, and ensure inclusive development,” President Samia said.
She concluded by reaffirming her commitment to national unity, constitutional reforms, and inclusive governance.
“Tanzania’s democracy is evolving. Together, through dialogue, reconciliation, and strategic planning, we will continue to strengthen our nation, empower our citizens, and secure a prosperous future for all.”he added
