The government has outlined eight strategic priorities for the Ministry of Defence and National Service in the 2026/27 financial year, focusing on military modernisation, improved welfare for soldiers and expansion of youth training programmes as part of efforts to strengthen national security and development.
Presenting the ministry’s budget estimates in Parliament on Tuesday, the Minister for Defence and National Service, Rhimo Nyansaho, said the government will prioritise acquisition of modern military equipment, advanced communication technology and enhancement of human resources within the country’s defence forces.
The minister said the government would also continue improving the working environment for military personnel through better maintenance of equipment, increased training and drills, improved healthcare services, housing and welfare benefits aimed at enhancing operational efficiency.
Dr Nyansaho said the government is also seeking to strengthen the National Service (JKT) by upgrading infrastructure to enable the institution to accommodate more young people for compulsory military orientation and vocational skills training.
He told Parliament that the ministry would continue strengthening the reserve force while safeguarding strategic national projects considered important to the country’s economic and security interests.
The minister further revealed plans to enhance the capacity of military research institutions and establish new defence industries in collaboration with the private sector to manufacture products for both military and civilian use.
On regional and international cooperation, Dr Nyansaho said Tanzania would continue working closely with the United Nations, Southern African Development Community and East African Community in addressing defence and security matters.
He also noted that the government would maintain cooperation with civilian authorities in responding to disasters and emergency situations whenever required.
The priorities, according to the minister, reflect broader efforts by President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration to build a modern, responsive and self-reliant defence sector capable of supporting national stability and socio-economic transformation.
