Tanzania raises minimum wage to Sh500,000 after 35.1 percent increase by President Samia

Singida. President Samia Suluhu Hassan has announced a 35.1 percent increase in the minimum wage for public servants, citing the country’s improved economic performance driven by workers’ efforts.

Speaking during the national May Day celebrations here on Thursday, President Hassan said the new wage adjustment will take effect from July this year, raising the minimum monthly salary from Sh370,000 to Sh500,000.

“In recognition of your hard work and commitment to national development—even at a time when we asked you to tighten your belts—I am pleased to announce that the government will increase the minimum wage for public servants by 35.1 percent,” said the Head of State, amid cheers from the crowd.

She noted that other salary scales will also be adjusted based on available budgetary space. 

“I assure you that salary increments are not limited to the minimum wage. Other workers will benefit as well,” she added.

The President further said that the government, through the Minimum Wage Board, is reviewing pay structures in the private sector to improve conditions for workers there.

“In the meantime, I urge the Ministry of Labour and trade unions to jointly implement collective bargaining agreements to secure better terms for employees in the private sector,” she said.

President Hassan reiterated her administration’s commitment to continuously improving workers’ welfare in line with economic growth.

She reminded workers of last year’s May Day address, where the government had cited economic constraints as the reason for holding off salary increases.

“Despite the tough times, we continued to promote staff and improve other benefits. Now, with the economy growing by 5.5 percent, it is only fair that we share the gains,” she said.

She called on workers to safeguard national unity and peace, and to fully participate in the upcoming general election scheduled for October.