Prime Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba has urged African countries to strategically respond to changing global political, economic and security dynamics by turning emerging challenges into opportunities for sustainable development.
Dr Mwigulu said the continent must strengthen strategic leadership, promote value addition of its natural resources and establish strong institutions capable of safeguarding citizens’ interests and supporting long-term economic transformation.
“Africa should not continue to be an arena for competition among major powers. We must use our strategic position, natural resources and human capital to create development that delivers tangible benefits to our people,” Dr Mwigulu said.
He made the remarks yesterday during the Second Alumni Conference of the National Defence College Tanzania held at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre (JNICC) in Dar es Salaam, where he was the keynote speaker.
The Prime Minister said the world is experiencing significant changes driven by geopolitical competition, rapid technological advancement, energy transition and growing demand for critical minerals.
He said these developments present Africa with an opportunity to rethink its economic approach, particularly by moving beyond exporting raw materials and investing in industries that create more value locally.
“Africa has a significant share of the critical minerals needed for global technology and clean energy transformation. This opportunity should be used to build stronger economies through processing and value addition rather than depending on the export of raw materials,” he said.
Dr Mwigulu stressed that Africa’s natural resources must contribute more to industrialisation, job creation and improved livelihoods for citizens.
He also highlighted the importance of strengthening institutions to ensure effective governance, responsible management of resources and protection of the interests of present and future generations.
On global security challenges, the Prime Minister said international conflicts have affected African economies through increased costs of energy, transportation and essential goods, underlining the need for stronger economic resilience.
He called for greater cooperation among African countries, expansion of intra-African trade and increased investment in technology, research and innovation to support self-reliant economies.
Dr Mwigulu further challenged leaders attending the conference to develop practical solutions that can help the continent respond effectively to emerging political, economic and security challenges.
Earlier, National Defence College Tanzania Commandant Ambassador Major General Wilbert Ibuge said the conference provides a platform for alumni to exchange experiences, strengthen strategic leadership networks and discuss issues affecting Africa’s development.
The college’s Chancellor, Dr Abdulhamid Mzee, said the forum brings together leaders, experts and professionals to examine Africa’s challenges and opportunities within the changing global environment.
The conference featured discussions on political trends, leadership, economic development and security in the 21st century, with contributions from experts and senior leaders including Prof Rwekaza Mukandala, Ambassador Ombeni Sefue, Education, Science and Technology Minister Prof Adolf Mkenda, Kenya Defence Forces Commander Lieutenant General David Kipkemboi Ketter, and Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (Policy, Parliament, Coordination and Persons with Disabilities) Prof Palamagamba Kabudi.
