President Hassan cited infrastructure development as central to inclusive growth, noting that her government had prioritised road construction, electricity expansion, and water projects in underserved areas, efforts already easing citizens’ daily lives.
Mtwara. President Samia Suluhu Hassan yesterday concluded her presidential campaign tour in Mtwara with a pledge to raise living standards, accelerate agribusiness, and ensure the region receives national recognition for its economic and cultural significance.
Speaking in Mtwara Town, President Hassan, seeking re‑election on a Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) ticket, reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to development, equity, and dignity for the southern region.
“I am here not only to conclude our campaign in Mtwara, but to assure you that the next phase of our journey will honour this region’s contribution to the nation. We are committed to improving lives, expanding opportunities, and restoring dignity across Mtwara,” she said.
Her remarks blended optimism with a call for unity, as she outlined plans to advance Mtwara and the country at large.
President Hassan cited infrastructure development as central to inclusive growth, noting that her government had prioritised road construction, electricity expansion, and water projects in underserved areas, efforts already easing citizens’ daily lives.
She pledged continuity, with particular focus on road connectivity to facilitate the movement of goods and services, especially for farmers and traders.
She also stressed strengthening transport links between Mtwara and other regions, as well as neighbouring countries, pointing to cross‑border trade opportunities with Mozambique and Malawi.
Agriculture remained at the heart of her campaign message. Recognising Mtwara as a major contributor to the nation’s cashew production, President Hassan promised to expand support to local farmers through subsidised inputs, affordable farm equipment, and enhanced extension services.
“We want farmers in Mtwara not only to grow crops but to thrive through value addition and access to profitable markets. Cashew, sesame, and pigeon pea production will be expanded, and we will support agro‑processing ventures that create local jobs,” she said.
She highlighted her government’s successes, noting pigeon pea production had risen from 5,700 tonnes in 2020 to over 529,000 tonnes, and sesame from 5,100 tonnes to nearly 600,000 tonnes.
She urged youth to explore agribusiness and livestock keeping, announcing plans to allocate three million additional acres nationwide for youth‑led agricultural initiatives.
Health featured prominently. President Hassan highlighted progress in expanding services in Mtwara, including a new zonal referral hospital and upgraded district and municipal health centres.
These developments, she said, reduce the need for long travel to access specialised care.
The government has recruited more health personnel and improved access to essential medicines.
“We want every Tanzanian to access quality healthcare, regardless of their economic or geographic status. Mtwara deserves nothing less,” she said.
Education was another priority. The President said her government had expanded access at all levels, constructing classrooms, laboratories, and dormitories nationwide.
“Education is not just about going to school; it is about equipping our children with skills to compete in the modern world. That is why we are modernising the curriculum, training teachers, and providing learning tools,” she said.
She promised to improve rural school infrastructure, recruit more teachers, and strengthen science and ICT education.
“This is how we prepare for tomorrow’s challenges — by building strong, educated, and confident leaders,” she added.
Youth empowerment was a key theme. She praised Mtwara’s youth for resilience and creativity, noting their embrace of entrepreneurship, arts, and innovation.
The government will expand access to capital through empowerment funds, training, and digital tools. “The youth are not just the future — they are the present. We will continue to support them to turn ideas into thriving businesses, to lead in technology, and to represent Tanzania globally,” she said.
President Hassan announced plans to roll out smart farming technologies and digital platforms to help rural farmers’ access information, finance, and markets. Mobile‑based tools now grade crops, track sales, and issue digital receipts, ensuring transparency and protecting producers.
“These tools are not for cities alone. Even a farmer in remote Mtwara can access real‑time prices, credit, and market data,” she said.
Her administration is also supporting technology hubs and mechanisation centres for farmers to lease equipment at subsidised rates, boosting productivity and attracting youth to agriculture.
She pledged further investment in clean water, saying ongoing projects will ensure all Tanzanians have access to safe drinking water.
“No family should suffer for lack of clean water. We are investing in lasting solutions, not temporary fixes,” she said.
In closing, President Samia thanked Mtwara residents for their warm welcome and trust, urging support in the forthcoming election.
“We have achieved much together, but we are just beginning. The next phase will lift every household and build a nation of dignity, equity, and prosperity. Mtwara will be at the heart of this journey,” she said.
CCM Secretary General, Dr Asha‑Rose Migiro, echoed the President, saying the government had created a supportive environment for youth in arts, sports, and entertainment.
“Through policies, many youths have found opportunities for employment and self‑development. The President’s leadership has made this possible,” she said.
CCM parliamentary candidate for Mtwara Urban, Dr Joeli Nanauka, praised the administration’s work, citing upgrades to the port, airport, roads, and investments in energy and healthcare.
“We have never seen this level of development. Mtwara is now connected, productive, and hopeful,” he said.
CCM Mtwara Regional Chairperson, Said Nyegedi, said agricultural productivity had grown significantly.
“We have moved from being overlooked to being celebrated. Mtwara now farms, trades, and lives with hope because it has a President who listens and delivers,” he said.
