Samia's Mtwara Campaign: A Promise of Growth and Dignity

A Vision for Mtwara: President Samia Suluhu Hassan's Commitment to Development and Equity

President Samia Suluhu Hassan recently concluded her presidential campaign tour in Mtwara, delivering a powerful message of hope, unity, and progress. As she seeks re-election under the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) banner, she emphasized her administration’s dedication to improving living standards, accelerating agribusiness, and ensuring that Mtwara receives the national recognition it deserves for its economic and cultural contributions.

During her speech in Mtwara Town, President Hassan reaffirmed her commitment to development, equity, and dignity for the southern region. She highlighted that this visit was not just about wrapping up the campaign but also about assuring the people of Mtwara that their contributions to the nation will be honored in the next phase of the journey. Her address blended optimism with a strong call for unity, outlining plans to advance both Mtwara and the country as a whole.

Infrastructure and Economic Growth

Infrastructure development remains a cornerstone of President Hassan’s vision for inclusive growth. She noted that her government has prioritized road construction, electricity expansion, and water projects in underserved areas, which have already made a significant impact on citizens’ daily lives. She pledged continued efforts to improve road connectivity, facilitating the movement of goods and services, especially for farmers and traders.

Additionally, she emphasized the importance of strengthening transport links between Mtwara and other regions, as well as neighboring countries like Mozambique and Malawi. These connections open up new cross-border trade opportunities, fostering economic growth and regional cooperation.

Agriculture: The Heart of Mtwara's Economy

Agriculture is central to President Hassan’s campaign message. Recognizing Mtwara as a major contributor to the nation’s cashew production, she promised expanded support for local farmers through subsidized inputs, affordable farm equipment, and enhanced extension services. Her goal is to help farmers not only grow crops but thrive by adding value and accessing profitable markets.

She cited impressive progress in the sector, noting that pigeon pea production increased from 5,700 tonnes in 2020 to over 529,000 tonnes, while sesame production rose from 5,100 tonnes to nearly 600,000 tonnes. To further boost agricultural productivity, she announced plans to allocate three million additional acres nationwide for youth-led agricultural initiatives.

Health and Education: Priorities for National Progress

Healthcare and education were also key points in President Hassan’s address. She highlighted the expansion of health services in Mtwara, including the establishment of a new zonal referral hospital and upgrades to district and municipal health centers. These developments reduce the need for long journeys to access specialized care, and the government has recruited more health personnel and improved access to essential medicines.

In education, she emphasized expanding access at all levels, constructing classrooms, laboratories, and dormitories nationwide. She stressed the importance of equipping children with skills to compete in the modern world, including modernizing the curriculum, training teachers, and providing learning tools. She also pledged to improve rural school infrastructure, recruit more teachers, and strengthen science and ICT education.

Youth Empowerment and Technological Innovation

Youth empowerment was another major theme. President Hassan praised Mtwara’s youth for their resilience and creativity, encouraging them to explore agribusiness and livestock keeping. She announced plans to expand access to capital through empowerment funds, training, and digital tools, emphasizing that the youth are not just the future but the present.

To support this, her administration is rolling 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. Additionally, technology hubs and mechanization centers are being established to allow farmers to lease equipment at subsidized rates, boosting productivity and attracting youth to agriculture.

Clean Water and Sustainable Development

President Hassan also pledged further investment in clean water, stating that ongoing projects will ensure all Tanzanians have access to safe drinking water. She emphasized that no family should suffer due to a lack of clean water, committing to lasting solutions rather than temporary fixes.

A Call for Unity and Continued Support

In closing, President Samia thanked Mtwara residents for their warm welcome and trust, urging them to support her in the forthcoming election. She reiterated that while much has been achieved, the journey is just beginning, with the next phase focused on lifting every household and building a nation of dignity, equity, and prosperity.

Several CCM officials echoed her sentiments, highlighting the transformative impact of the administration’s policies on youth, agriculture, and infrastructure. They expressed confidence that Mtwara will continue to grow and thrive under President Hassan’s leadership.