The Government of Tanzania has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting human rights for all people in the country, including citizens and refugees, while continuing to strengthen peace, security, and national stability.
The assurance was made in Dar es Salaam today by the Minister for Home Affairs, Patrobas Katambi, during the commemoration of World Refugee Day, observed every year on June 20 under the global theme “Hadi Kila Mtu Awe Salama,” which emphasizes safety and dignity for all people forced to flee their homes.
The event brought together refugees living in Dar es Salaam who represented others across the country, alongside government officials and development partners involved in refugee protection and humanitarian services.
Minister Katambi said Tanzania will continue to stand as a safe and peaceful country that provides protection to people fleeing conflict, persecution and insecurity from different parts of the world.
He said the government remains committed to ensuring refugees are treated with dignity and supported with essential services, even in situations where resources are limited.
“The Government under the leadership of Samia Suluhu Hassan will continue to ensure that all refugees are protected and supported. Even when resources are stretched, we do not abandon our responsibility. We continue to stand with those seeking safety in our country,” he said.
He added that in some cases, the government has stepped in directly when external humanitarian support was insufficient, ensuring continuity of services such as shelter, healthcare and protection.
According to him, Tanzania continues to work closely with international partners, including humanitarian agencies, to strengthen refugee protection systems and improve service delivery across refugee-hosting areas.
Minister Katambi noted that refugees also contribute to building understanding between communities, saying their experiences offer important lessons on the value of peace and stability.
He further pointed out that many causes of displacement globally are linked to governance challenges such as corruption, misuse of public resources, economic crimes and lack of accountability.
He said issues including tax evasion, illicit financial flows, smuggling, forgery and mismanagement of public funds often weaken institutions and fuel instability in different countries.
He also cited political intolerance, discrimination, hate speech and election-related violence as key drivers of insecurity in some parts of the world.
“These are challenges that the world must continue to address. When governance fails, people suffer and are forced to leave their countries,” he said.
Minister Katambi emphasized that Tanzania remains committed to preventing such challenges by strengthening institutions responsible for law enforcement, justice and public administration.
He said the country’s legal and constitutional framework provides a strong foundation for protecting human rights and ensuring equal treatment for all people within its borders.
He added that refugee protection is part of Tanzania’s long-standing tradition of solidarity, compassion and regional cooperation.
The Minister also acknowledged the support of international partners, particularly the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and called for continued cooperation to address the growing global challenge of displacement.
Participants at the commemoration shared their experiences and expressed appreciation to Tanzania for providing safety and protection, while calling for continued support in education, livelihoods and social services.
The government reminded refugees of the importance of respecting national laws and maintaining peaceful coexistence with host communities to ensure continued stability.
Minister Katambi concluded by reaffirming that Tanzania will continue to uphold human dignity, maintain peace and security, and remain a safe haven for those fleeing conflict, while safeguarding national interests and unity.
