DAR ES SALAAM: PRESIDENT Samia Suluhu Hassan has sworn in newly appointed senior government officials, urging them to immediately focus on implementing Tanzania’s Development Vision 2050, saying the country has entered a decisive phase that demands hard work and results.
Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony at the State House in Dar es Salaam on Wednesday, President Samia said the officials were assuming office on the very day Tanzania begins implementing its new long-term national development agenda.
“You are fortunate to begin your duties today, the day we officially start implementing our Development Vision for the next 25 years. You are not going to rest; you are entering a period of intensive work,” she said.
The President said the new appointments carry significant responsibility, calling on the leaders to ensure efficient use of public resources and deliver measurable results in their respective institutions.
Addressing the newly appointed Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Grace Maghembe, President Samia said although she is a health professional, her new role primarily requires strong administrative leadership.
She instructed Ms Maghembe to ensure prudent management of the ministry’s budget, noting that while government resources are always limited compared to sectoral priorities, effective planning and expenditure can deliver greater impact.
President Samia said Tanzania aims to increase the availability of medicines and medical supplies to 60 per cent by 2030 while also strengthening local production of vaccines and other essential medical products.
She noted that growing investor interest in Tanzania’s health sector presents an opportunity that should be carefully managed by welcoming quality investments capable of improving healthcare services, enhancing access to vaccines and reducing the country’s dependence on imports.
Turning to the newly appointed Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Charles Ngadonya, President Samia commended his extensive experience within the East African Community (EAC) and directed him to safeguard Tanzania’s national interests while promoting the continued success and integration of the regional bloc.
She also tasked the newly appointed Secretary of the Public Service Commission, Nolasco Jacob Kipanda, with ensuring integrity, fairness, and impartiality in handling public service disputes and disciplinary matters.
“There are disputes and grievances that require justice. The Commission must uphold integrity and ensure fairness in its decisions,” she said.
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Concluding her remarks, President Samia congratulated all the appointees, reminding them that public office is a trust bestowed upon them by the nation.
“Leadership is a responsibility. We expect a great deal from all of you,” she said.