The government will continue working closely with religious leaders as part of its broader effort to build a nation founded on faith, love, justice and accountability, Prime Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba has said.
Dr Nchemba made the remarks on Sunday, January 18, 2026, after attending a worship service at the Anglican Holy Spirit Cathedral in Dodoma, where he underscored the central role of faith-based institutions in shaping national values and safeguarding peace.
“Religious institutions have a unique responsibility to preach and teach values of love, tolerance and mutual respect,” Dr Nchemba said. “These values are pillars of national peace, and President Samia Suluhu Hassan recognises and deeply appreciates the important contribution of religious institutions, including the Anglican Church, in promoting peace, good morals and national unity.”
He said the government views religious leaders as strategic partners in nurturing ethical leadership and responsible citizenship, noting that moral guidance remains essential for social cohesion and sustainable development.
Dr Nchemba also reflected on the significance of Sunday worship for Christians, describing it as a time for self-examination, spiritual renewal and learning how to live according to God’s will in families, communities and the nation at large.
“Sunday worship is not just a routine,” he said. “It is a moment to reflect on our lives, strengthen our relationship with God and learn how to live responsibly within our families, our society and our country.”
The Prime Minister reminded Tanzanians of the importance of living by values of love, humility, justice and accountability, citing the Biblical verse Micah 6:8.
“The Bible clearly reminds us what is good and what the Lord requires of us: to act justly, to love mercy and to walk humbly with our God,” he said.
He stressed that these principles are not confined to religion alone but form a critical foundation for social wellbeing and national development.
“These values are universal. They are essential for building a just, peaceful and prosperous society,” Dr Nchemba said.
He noted that Tanzania continues to stand out as a model of peace and unity in the region and across Africa, attributing this record to collective effort rather than chance. “Peace is not accidental,” he said.
“It is the result of deliberate efforts by the government, religious institutions, families and citizens working together.”
Dr Nchemba called on believers to translate their faith into action by upholding integrity, accountability and diligence in their daily lives, while respecting the law and contributing actively to national development.
“True faith must be reflected in our actions,” he said. “Belief without good conduct does not build a nation.”
He further urged worshippers and all Tanzanians to act as ambassadors of peace in their homes, workplaces and communities, warning against hatred, division and violence.
“Each one of us has a duty to protect our peace and reject anything that threatens unity,” he said.
Earlier, the Bishop of the Anglican Church of Tanzania, Central Tanganyika Diocese, Dr Dickson Chilongani, commended the government for its continued engagement with religious institutions, saying churches remain committed partners in safeguarding peace.
“We want our country to remain peaceful so that development activities can continue,” Bishop Chilongani said. “We stand together with the government, and we will never play with peace.”
Sustained collaboration between the state and faith-based institutions has been a defining feature of Tanzania’s social stability, reinforcing dialogue, tolerance and shared responsibility in a diverse society.