President Samia Suluhu Hassan has explained the reasons behind appointing Professor Palamagamba Kabudi as Minister of State in the President’s Office – Special Duties, saying the move aligns with new national and international demands facing the government.
Before the appointment, Prof. Kabudi served as Minister of Information, Culture, Arts, and Sports. The January 8, 2026 cabinet reshuffle also saw Paul Makonda, the former Deputy Minister, take over Prof. Kabudi’s previous role. The appointees are expected to be sworn in on January 13 at State House in Dodoma.
Speaking on Saturday, January 10, during an event in Dar es Salaam honoring Tanzanian athletes for their international achievements, President Samia used the occasion to bid farewell to Prof. Kabudi at the Ministry of Sports and officially welcome him to the State House.
“Today is not only about celebrating our athletes but also about formally receiving Prof. Kabudi at the State House. This is not just a routine change; it responds to the evolving global political landscape. Some countries and institutions view Tanzania positively, while others scrutinize us critically,” President Samia said.
She emphasized that the State House requires advisers with exceptional judgment, wide-ranging knowledge, extensive national and international experience, and excellent communication skills.
“At the State House, I need sharp minds who can understand complex matters and communicate them clearly. After reviewing officials across government, I concluded that Prof. Kabudi is the right person for this role,” the President added.
President Samia recently appointed former Vice President Dr. Philip Mpango as her advisor on economic affairs and development projects.
Dr. Mpango, who has served as Minister of Finance and Vice President, brings deep experience in economic management, finance, and development planning.
Former Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa has been appointed as the President’s advisor on social affairs.
With a decade of government leadership, Majaliwa’s expertise spans public administration, social issues, and policy implementation at all levels.
“These two key areas require calm, composed, and experienced advisers who can manage high-level discussions with wisdom,” President Samia noted.
She added that Prof. Kabudi has the skill to handle complex matters calmly and effectively, making him ideal for his new role.
President Samia stressed that the transfer of Prof. Kabudi is part of a broader strategy to optimize government human resources, not a sign of distrust in his previous ministry.
She expressed confidence in the new leadership at the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts, and Sports, noting it is now in the hands of young leaders who understand the sector’s needs.
“I am confident that Mwana FA (Hamis Miwnjuma, Deputy Minister) and Makonda can lead the ministry effectively because it is a ministry for young people, and they understand the challenges and opportunities in this sector,” she said.
President Samia concluded by urging Tanzanians to continue maintaining peace and unity to ensure the country remains strong on the international stage.