Prme Minister Mwigulu Nchemba has called on Tanzanians to remain vigilant in safeguarding the country's peace, warning that early signs of instability should never be taken lightly as the nation seeks to preserve its long-standing record of peace and security.
Addressing a special thanksgiving service and fundraising event at the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania (ELCT) Amani Parish in Singida on Sunday, June 28, Dr Nchemba said maintaining peace was a collective responsibility that required the participation of every citizen.
"The protection of our nation is the responsibility of every Tanzanian, and the peace we enjoy belongs to all of us," he told the congregation.
He cautioned that Tanzania should not ignore warning signs that could undermine national stability, saying previous incidents had demonstrated the importance of responding promptly to emerging threats.
"We should not overlook any signs that threaten peace. We must take them seriously because they have already left a mark on our country," he said.
The Prime Minister made the remarks during the climax of the fourth diocesan fundraising campaign organised by the ELCT Central Diocese, which aimed to mobilise Sh1.4 billion for the expansion of health, education, administrative and evangelism services.
By the close of the event, the church had secured Sh1.331 billion through cash contributions and pledges, leaving a balance of Sh69 million.
Dr Nchemba expressed confidence that the remaining amount would be raised within a week, saying commitments made by donors, together with a follow-up team he had appointed, would ensure the fundraising target was achieved.
Beyond fundraising, the church leaders used the occasion to emphasise integrity, reconciliation and social cohesion as essential pillars for national development.
Delivering the sermon, ELCT Presiding Bishop Dr Alex Gehazi Malasusa urged Christians to ensure that their wealth was acquired through honest means and used in ways that honoured God.
"Everything we do should glorify God. Our wealth and resources must be obtained lawfully, without exploiting others, and should always be guided by God's principles," he said.
ELCT Central Diocese Bishop Dr Cyprian Hilinti said the church remained committed to praying for national leaders and promoting peaceful coexistence across communities, including between farmers and pastoralists, different ethnic groups and political parties.
"We desire to see forgiveness prevail in every sphere of society. Forgiveness is a powerful remedy for healing and reconciliation," he said.
Dr Hilinti said the annual fundraising initiative had also contributed to the growth of the diocese over the past four years, resulting in the establishment of eight new church districts, 27 congregations, the recruitment of 17,364 new members and the ordination of 65 pastors.
He added that the church had expanded its social outreach by registering two new secondary schools and an English-medium primary school, while thanking worshippers and supporters for their continued generosity towards the diocese's development programmes.
