Tanzania’s post-election reset: What President Samia told international partners
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has moved to reassure foreign diplomats and international partners following last year’s election-related unrest and nationwide internet restrictions, saying her government remains committed to stability, safety and democratic reform.
Speaking at Chamwino State House in Dodoma during the official opening of the diplomatic year, President Hassan acknowledged the disruption caused by internet shutdowns and service restrictions imposed during the elections. She expressed sympathy to diplomats and foreign nationals living in Tanzania, describing the experience as difficult but necessary to protect constitutional order and public safety.
“I express my sincere sympathy for the uncertainty, service restrictions, and internet shutdown you experienced,” President Hassan said, adding that the government would remain vigilant to prevent similar disruptions in the future.
The president also addressed concerns about violence that occurred during and after Election Day, insisting that security measures were taken to safeguard lives and restore order. While defending the government’s response, she acknowledged that democracy is an ongoing process that inevitably produces grievances.
To promote national healing, President Hassan said her administration had taken steps to expand political inclusion, including the creation of a Ministry of Youth within the President’s Office to increase young people’s participation in governance. She also confirmed the establishment of an independent commission of inquiry and reiterated plans to form a truth and reconciliation commission as part of a broader constitutional reform process.
On the economy, President Hassan told diplomats that Tanzania remains among Africa’s fastest-growing economies, with GDP growth close to six percent and inflation contained at about 3.3 percent. She said the country’s public debt remains sustainable.
Looking ahead, the president outlined Tanzania’s 2026 foreign policy priorities, including a shift from aid dependence toward strategic investment, particularly in healthcare. She invited international partners to engage in medical diplomacy and support Tanzania’s ambition to become a regional hub for specialised healthcare and pharmaceutical manufacturing.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
