The Citizen (Tanzania)

[Lunakz]

The Citizen (Tanzania) – Special Edition
November 2006

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Historic Victory: Fatma Ali Mwinchumu Becomes Tanzania’s First Female President

Dodoma – In a sweeping electoral triumph, Fatma Ali Mwinchumu of the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party has been elected as President of the United Republic of Tanzania, making history as the country’s first female Head of State and the first Zanzibari woman to lead the nation.

The CCM secured an overwhelming 365 out of 393 seats in the National Assembly, granting Mwinchumu an unrivalled mandate to pursue her bold reform agenda.

A veteran economist and former Minister of Finance, Mwinchumu’s campaign struck a chord across the country with its promise of rapid modernisation, a target of 10% annual economic growth, zero tolerance for corruption, and greater social equality.

A Presidency with Purpose
Speaking in Dodoma shortly after her victory was confirmed, President-elect Mwinchumu outlined her immediate priorities and announced that her first act as President will be to conduct a full State of the Nation Review, a sweeping audit of Tanzania’s economy, society, and governance systems.

“Before we move forward, we must understand exactly where we stand. This review will be comprehensive, transparent, and inclusive,” Mwinchumu declared. “It will guide our policies, identify weaknesses, and ensure no Tanzanian is left behind.”

The State of the Nation Review will be led by an independent national commission, with input from civil society, the private sector, academia, and regional governments. It is expected to cover key sectors such as agriculture, education, health, infrastructure, finance, and public service delivery.

10% Growth Vision and Anti-Corruption Crusade
Under the slogan “Tanzania ya Kisasa, Tanzania ya Haki” (Modern Tanzania, Just Tanzania), Mwinchumu presented a transformative vision built around economic diversity and clean governance. She reiterated her commitment to achieving 10% annual GDP growth through industrial development, digital innovation, and infrastructure renewal.

Her vow to eliminate corruption has been central to her political message. She promised the swift creation of an independent National Anti-Corruption Commission (INACC), the introduction of digital procurement systems, and protection for whistleblowers.

“The era of impunity is over. Every shilling misused is a betrayal of the people’s trust. That will not be tolerated under my administration,” she said to rapturous applause at a post-victory rally in Mwanza.

Unifying Symbol for Zanzibar and the Mainland
Mwinchumu’s ascent has been celebrated as a moment of pride and unity for Zanzibar, with jubilant scenes in Zanzibar City and Pemba. Analysts say her presidency may usher in a renewed chapter of inclusion and federal cooperation.

“This win is a symbol of the union’s maturity and the strength of Tanzanian democracy,” said Prof. Issa Ramadhani of the University of Dar es Salaam.

Opposition Response: Respectful but Watchful
Opposition parties have largely accepted the results, while stressing the importance of institutional checks and democratic accountability. CHADEMA leader Joseph Mwasakafyuka offered congratulations but warned against complacency.

“A strong opposition is vital to good governance. We will cooperate where we must, and oppose where we must. Tanzania deserves no less.”

The Work Begins
With a powerful mandate, a clear policy platform, and national optimism running high, President-elect Fatma Ali Mwinchumu now faces the immense task of delivering on her promises. The State of the Nation Review will lay the groundwork—but the true test lies in the months and years ahead.

 

[Lunakz]

The Citizen (Tanzania)
November 2006
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

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State of the Nation Review Reveals a Country at Crossroads​

In a sweeping new report titled the State of the Nation Review, the Tanzanian government has released a comprehensive appraisal of the nation's economic, social, and political status, painting a complex portrait of a country undergoing both transformation and turmoil. The findings, while heralding some progress, also reveal stark challenges that threaten to undermine Tanzania's long-term stability and prosperity.

A Dual Economy: Growth Overshadowed by Informality
The report reveals that while official GDP figures show a diverse economy—anchored by agriculture (24%), industry (28%), and services (48%)—the informal sector dominates, representing an estimated 45%–55% of all economic activity and employing a staggering 85% of the national workforce. Economists warn that such informality severely limits the government's ability to tax, regulate, and plan for growth.

“A large informal economy means invisible workers, invisible incomes, and invisible problems,” noted economist Dr. Hussein Mandari. “This hinders Tanzania's fiscal base and economic resilience.”

Agricultural Paradox: Surplus Crops Amid Persistent Hunger
Agriculture remains the backbone of the nation’s economy, yet food insecurity continues due to drought, regional imbalances, and infrastructure deficiencies. While Tanzania enjoys surpluses in maize, rice, and legumes, it struggles to meet demands for wheat (7% self-sufficiency), sugar (57%), and sorghum, exposing the country to volatile international markets.

Energy Poverty Amid Abundant Resources
Despite vast mineral and energy wealth—including natural gas, uranium, and coal—Tanzania remains energy-poor. National electrification stands at only 38%, and biomass (wood and charcoal) still accounts for over 80% of household energy use. Per capita electricity consumption remains just 167 kWh/year, well below the global average of 3,813 kWh/year.

Critics argue that the country's energy potential is being squandered. “We have natural gas, but homes are still lit by kerosene,” said opposition MP Amina Lissu. “There is a disconnect between our resources and our reality.”

Youthful Nation, Struggling System
With 45% of Tanzanians under the age of 15, the population is booming—yet the education system is collapsing under the pressure. The report estimates that to reach European standards, Tanzania would need to recruit 1 million new teachers and construct over 600,000 new classrooms.

Healthcare is similarly strained, particularly in rural areas, where staff shortages, foreign aid dependency, and a lack of mental health services remain critical issues. Maternal mortality rates remain high at 238 deaths per 100,000 live births, with entrenched issues such as FGM, especially in regions like Manyara, contributing to the crisis.

Social Justice and the Rule of Law: Patchy Progress
The report highlights widespread gender-based violence, discriminatory land rights, and child marriage, with loopholes in the 1971 Marriage Act still allowing girls to marry at 15. Meanwhile, LGBT+ individuals remain criminalised and unprotected, facing routine discrimination and community violence.

“There are still two Tanzanias,” commented human rights lawyer Nuru Mbwana. “One that is moving forward in law, and another trapped in tradition and silence.”

The review also identifies significant issues in freedom of expression, with a documented history of media crackdowns, arbitrary arrests, and abuse by security forces. Although recent years have seen a rhetorical shift towards openness, activists argue that legal reforms are needed to guarantee rights in practice, not just in theory.

Corruption and Trafficking: The Hidden Drain
Perhaps most damning are the economic costs of corruption and illicit financial flows, which the report pegs at over $5.6 billion annually, representing 7% of GDP. Human trafficking also remains pervasive, particularly in rural areas, where NGOs shoulder the entire burden of prevention and victim support.

“This is not just a moral issue,” said Transparency Tanzania director Charles Malecela. “It is a national security threat and a barrier to development.”

What Next for Tanzania?
The State of the Nation Review concludes with cautious optimism, noting “significant potential for transformation through targeted investment, institutional reform, and inclusive governance.” Yet without urgent and coordinated action, many fear the country may struggle to meet the aspirations of its youthful, rapidly growing population.

As one anonymous civil servant noted: “We are a country with riches in the ground, strength in our youth, and hope in our hearts—but unless we face our truths, we will fall behind.”

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State of the Nation Review (2006)​