Former British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) Head of Swahili Service, Tido Mhando, and ex-Mwananchi Communications' Managing Director, Bakari Machumu, have been appointed to support President Samia Suluhu Hassan's government on communications.
Chief Secretary Dr. Moses Kusiluka announced in a statement on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, that Tido Mhando will be the new Presidential Adviser on Communication, while Bakari Steven Machumu will serve as State House Director of Communications, succeeding Sharifa Bakari Nyanga who has been assigned other duties. Lazaro Samuel Nyandu has also been appointed as Ambassador.
What Tido Mhando and Machumu will bring to Samia's government
With their appointments, Tido Mhando and Bakari Machumu are expected to bring fresh perspectives and expertise to the President's office.
Their roles will be crucial in shaping the government's communication strategy and ensuring effective public relations.
Their combined experience in journalism and communication will likely contribute to a more effective and transparent government communication approach.
As Chairman of the Journalists Accreditation Board, Tido Mhando's extensive experience in journalism – having led the Swahili Service at BBC and later becoming the Director of Azam TV – will likely contribute to effective communication and public relations in the President's Office.