NJOMBE: President Samia Suluhu Hassan has urged Tanzanians to protect national unity and embrace hard work as the country pushes forward with ambitious plans to transform its economy and expand opportunities for workers under its long-term Development Vision 2050 strategy.
Addressing national International Workers’ Day celebrations in Njombe, President Samia said peace, solidarity and social stability would remain critical pillars in Tanzania’s efforts to build a stronger and more competitive economy in the coming decades.
Her remarks come as Tanzania accelerates investment in infrastructure, energy, transport and industrial development while pursuing a broader strategy aimed at transforming the country into a middle- to high-income economy with a target of reaching a one trillion-dollar economy by 2050.
Speaking before workers, labour leaders and government officials gathered at Lunyanywi Grounds, President Samia said economic transformation cannot succeed without national cohesion and cooperation among citizens.
“It is the responsibility of workers to ensure that our differences do not endanger the foundations of peace, unity and solidarity left to us by our founding leaders,” she said.
“Let us remain united, work together and continue building a strong and respected nation.”
This year’s Workers’ Day celebrations were held under the theme: “Decent Work is a Strong Pillar for Sustainable Development in the Implementation of the National Development Vision 2050.”
The president said decent work, workers’ dignity and economic growth are closely tied to political stability and social harmony, adding that maintaining unity would be essential as Tanzania navigates global economic changes and increasing competition in international markets.
Analysts say Tanzania has increasingly linked labour development policies with broader economic reforms as the country seeks to strengthen its position as one of East Africa’s fastest-growing economies.
President Samia said workers would play a central role in driving the country’s long-term economic ambitions.
“As the backbone of the nation, workers must play a central role in driving this vision forward,” she said.
The government has introduced several labour and employment initiatives aimed at expanding job opportunities and strengthening workers’ welfare, officials said.
According to government figures, thousands of jobs have been created in the public sector during President Samia’s administration, while more than 7,500 Tanzanian youths have secured overseas employment opportunities through government-supported labour programmes.
Authorities say additional measures are being introduced to strengthen welfare protections for Tanzanians working abroad as labour migration increases.
President Samia also praised private sector employers for implementing revised minimum wage measures aimed at improving living standards for workers.
Officials said most employers had already complied with the new wage requirements.
Additional reforms highlighted during the celebrations included the launch of a five-year National Decent Work Programme and expanded social security coverage for workers in the informal sector, which employs millions of Tanzanians.
The government has also allocated major funding to support youth entrepreneurship programmes and small business development initiatives as part of broader efforts to tackle unemployment and expand economic inclusion.
At the same time, President Samia warned that rapid technological advancement and global economic shifts are reshaping labour markets worldwide.
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She said Tanzania must invest more heavily in education, innovation and skills development to prepare workers for future labour market demands driven by technology and industrial transformation.
“Global political and economic changes, together with technological advancement, are reshaping the world of work,” she said.
Officials also said efforts are continuing to formalise parts of Tanzania’s large informal economy and strengthen participation of workers in labour and development policies.
Despite ongoing economic pressures linked to global market conditions, infrastructure recovery costs and other national expenditures, the president said her administration remains committed to improving workers’ welfare and expanding economic opportunities.
“Workers’ welfare remains a priority, and improvements will continue as the economy grows stronger,” she said.
Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba also addressed the gathering, urging workers to remain resilient, disciplined and committed to public service and national development.
He said strong work ethics and professional dedication remain essential for improving service delivery and sustaining national progress.
Labour Minister Deus Sangu praised ongoing government efforts to expand employment opportunities and improve labour conditions across the country.
Observers say Tanzania’s growing emphasis on workforce development reflects broader recognition that human capital will play a decisive role in sustaining industrialisation, attracting investment and driving future economic growth.
As Tanzania advances its Vision 2050 agenda, officials increasingly view labour reforms, youth employment and social stability as essential components in building a more competitive and inclusive economy.
For many workers attending the celebrations, the message centred not only on employment and wages, but also on the broader idea that national unity and economic progress are deeply interconnected.
With Tanzania seeking to position itself as a rising economic force in East Africa, government leaders say empowering workers and maintaining social cohesion will remain central to achieving the country’s long-term development ambitions.