Fellow Tanzanians, in our journey to build a united, peaceful and continuously developing nation, there comes a time when we must stand together and reflect on our common future. Her Excellency President Samia Suluhu Hassan, a visionary leader with wisdom and genuine commitment to uniting all Tanzanians, continues to demonstrate exceptional leadership that embraces everyone that is the government, the ruling party CCM, opposition parties, activists, youth and ordinary citizens. This is the spirit of national reconciliation that we need more than ever.
Our Tanzania has faced various challenges like political differences, divergent views and sometimes divisions. But as President Samia has repeatedly emphasized, we are all brothers and sisters in one Nation. We share one history of independence, one destiny and one dream of a Tanzania with justice, equality and equal opportunities for every citizen. The Sixth Phase Government has opened doors for dialogue, cooperation and inclusion of all opinions so that national decisions are reached collectively and serve all Tanzanians without discrimination.
A clear example of this reconciliation spirit is the recent appointment of Dr. Eveline Munisi, former Secretary General of NCCR-Mageuzi (an opposition party), as Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office (Labour, Employment and Relations). This is a historic appointment and the first of its kind in our multiparty system where the President chose her based on merit and commitment to national service. President Samia stated clearly: “I appointed her based on her competence and commitment to serve the nation.” This shows that the government welcomes all people of goodwill, regardless of political party, to contribute to shared development.
Opposition parties have an important place in our democracy. Instead of endless conflicts, our call is: “Come together, let us discuss and build our Tanzania.” President Samia has shown sincere willingness to cooperate with opposition leaders and give them space to contribute to national development. This is not weakness, but the strength of wise and broad-minded leadership that recognizes Tanzania needs every Tanzanian’s contribution to move forward.
Activists and youth, you are the hope of our Nation. Your passion for change and your voices have been heard. The government is listening and welcomes you. Instead of endless protests, channel your energy into building and participate in youth programs, quality education, employment and entrepreneurship initiatives provided by the government. President Samia has issued a call for reconciliation so that we shift from divisions to nation-building.
Ordinary citizens, you carry the weight of daily life like prices of goods, agriculture, health, education and infrastructure. The government is working day and night to deliver relief through major development projects such as roads, railways, rural electrification and modern agriculture. National reconciliation means we all support these efforts instead of opposing them for purely political reasons.
Recently, President Samia has demonstrated her international leadership by warmly receiving presidents from neighbouring countries. Earlier this week, she hosted Rwandan President Paul Kagame on 3rd May for in-depth discussions on trade, transport and security cooperation. The following day, she received Kenyan President William Ruto for a state visit that produced important agreements, including the signing of eight MoUs on railways, gas pipeline cooperation and the removal of trade barriers. These wise and friendly receptions have shown that Tanzania is a respected leader in East Africa, capable of driving regional unity.
If neighbouring countries can unite and remove barriers, why can’t we unite even more within Tanzania? Reconciliation is not surrendering your views, but winning together. It is time to abandon hatred, tribalism, divisive politics and all forms of division. It is time to embrace love, hard work and shared development. President Samia has set an excellent example: “Tanzania belongs to all and development must reach everyone.”
This call concerns everyone from government, CCM, opposition parties, activists to ordinary citizens. Let us join hands, bury our differences and build the Tanzania of tomorrow that will benefit our children and grandchildren. National reconciliation is not optional but it is essential. A new Tanzania, united and prosperous, is being born today, and we are all its builders.
