Finnish First Lady urges African leaders to uphold ethics, good governance
Dar es Salaam. The First Lady of Finland, Ms Suzanne Innes-Stubb, has urged African leaders to uphold ethics, values, and principles of good governance, emphasising the need to base decisions on facts rather than assumptions.
She cautioned against the dangers of misinformation and disinformation, noting that careless decisions can cause significant harm to the public.
Ms Innes-Stubb made the remarks on Thursday, 16 May 2025, during a graduation ceremony hosted by the Uongozi Institute that saw over 200 leaders from government, business, academia, and civil society across Africa recognised after completing three executive leadership programmes.
“As leaders, you must ensure that your decisions do not negatively impact those you serve. I encourage all of you to contribute meaningfully to Tanzania’s development,” she said.
She commended the Uongozi Institute for launching a women’s leadership programme, describing it as an important step toward inclusive and representative leadership.
The Minister of State in the President’s Office for Public Service Management and Good Governance, Mr George Simbachawene, called for reforms in the CEO vetting process.
He noted that despite strong performance by many CEOs, workplace disputes remain widespread.
Mr Simbachawene emphasised the need for better project coordination to ensure more effective use of financial and human resources for sustainable development.
“As you know, the government is investing substantial resources in development projects designed to accelerate national progress and enhance citizens’ welfare,” he said.
The European Union Ambassador to Tanzania, Ms Christine Grau, highlighted the critical role of ethical leadership in achieving sustainable national development.
She noted that diversity in leadership teams leads to better results and broader impact: “It’s time to dedicate ourselves fully to achieving excellence.”
The Finnish Embassy in Tanzania’s head of cooperation, Mr Juhana Lehtinen, described the Uongozi Institute as a symbol of the enduring partnership between Tanzania and Finland.
“We are proud of the Institute’s ambitious and forward-thinking leadership. Over the years, it has earned international recognition,” he said, reaffirming Finland’s commitment to continued support.
“We look forward to the positive outcomes this collaboration will continue to bring,” he added.
The Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar's Chief Secretary, Ms Zena Ahmed Said, called on graduates to apply the skills they had gained to inspire others and drive sustainable development.
In his remarks, Uongozi Institute CEO, Mr Kadari Singo, said the ceremony was held to honour the accomplishments of graduates from the Institute’s long-term executive programmes.
They include: the Postgraduate Diploma in Leadership (PGD), Certificate in Leadership (CiL), and the Women’s Leadership Programme (WLP).
He noted that more than 200 leaders from across Africa and representing different sectors—including government, business, academia, and civil society—had successfully completed the three programmes.
“These programmes are designed to strengthen leadership capacities at the personal, interpersonal, and organisational levels,” he said.
