Dodoma set for economic windfall from CCM event

Dodoma. The ruling party, CCM, has urged Dodoma residents to capitalise on the presence of about 3,000 delegates attending a special general meeting, highlighting the potential for economic gains.

The party’s Secretary for Ideology, Publicity and Training, Mr Amos Makalla, made the call on Saturday, 24 May 2025, noting that the meeting is scheduled to take place at the Jakaya Kikwete Convention Centre (JKCC) on May 29 and 30.

He said over 2,700 delegates are expected to converge in the country’s administrative capital, presenting an opportunity for residents to earn income.

“Whether you’re a bodaboda rider, food vendor, hotel operator, beverage supplier, or selling party attire—everyone stands to benefit from the meeting. We are about to bring the country to a standstill from May 29 to 30,” he said.

“We will all be here in Dodoma. I welcome everyone. Don’t miss it. The whole nation will be here—all of Tanzania will be here—so this is a major opportunity for Dodoma residents to benefit,” he added.

Mr Makalla said preparations for the meeting were progressing well and were now in the final stages.

He noted that the special general meeting would be preceded by a Central Committee session on May 26, followed by a meeting of the National Executive Committee (NEC) on May 28.

He said one of the key items on the agenda would be reviewing the implementation of the current five-year Election Manifesto for both the Union and Zanzibar governments.

Another major item will be the unveiling of the 2025–2030 Election Manifesto, which he said was a working document and a contract between the party and citizens during an election campaign.

“It outlines the promises made to the people, and once elected, it becomes our agreement with the nation,” said Mr Makalla.

He added that the process began with evaluating what was promised in the previous manifesto and what has been delivered.

The party also conducted research involving civil society organisations, citizens, and various stakeholders to identify national priorities and public expectations for the new manifesto.

He expressed confidence that the 2025 manifesto would resonate strongly with Tanzanians, stating: “What’s coming is exciting.”

A third agenda item, he noted, involves minor amendments to the party’s constitution.

Mr Makalla further revealed that the foundation stone for the party’s new national headquarters will be laid on 28 May, ahead of the general meeting.

“We are constructing a new national headquarters directly opposite this building (JKCC). Our party is large and continues to grow. We now have 11 million members,” he said.

He said the existing CCM headquarters—commonly known as the White House—is no longer adequate to serve the expanding membership.

Mr Makalla added that the ageing facility must be replaced by a modern building befitting a major political party.

The new premises will include essential services such as meeting halls and parking facilities.

Yesterday, The Citizen observed intensified preparations as roads leading to the venue were decorated with party flags.

Inside the JKCC, chairs were wrapped in fabrics featuring the party’s signature colours and initials “CCM.”

The hall was also adorned with banners displaying the party’s new slogan: Work and Humanity, We Are Moving Forward.