BY MLEMI ALPHONCE
District, city and municipal councils have been called upon to play a more active role in supporting private sector growth as Tanzania advances its National Development Vision 2050.
The Prime Minister (PM), Dr Mwigulu Nchemba, told the opening of a Special General Meeting of the Association of Local Government Authorities of Tanzania (ALAT) held in Arusha last week that a strong partnership between local authorities and the private sector was essential for accelerated growth. The meeting was called to elect the association’s new leaders.
“A stronger partnership between local authorities and the private sector is essential to drive investment, expand revenue and create sustainable employment opportunities, “ the PM stressed.
Participants emphasised the important role of the private sector, noting it could contribute up to 70 per cent towards national development while urging incoming ALAT leaders to prioritise an enabling environment for business and effective service delivery.
The meeting also highlighted the need to improve revenue collection and curb financial leakages, particularly as the country moves towards universal health care insurance and the long-term goal of “a one-trillion-dollar economy.” LGAs were identified as central to ensuring financial discipline and unlocking new revenue sources.
Education reforms featured prominently with plans for a 10-year compulsory education system expected to push secondary school enrolment beyond three million students. This expansion will require more than 23,000 classrooms, 9,000 laboratories and funding exceeding one trillion shillings.
Members also raised Sh 80 million in support of the outgoing ALAT chairperson, Murshid Ngeze, who became disabled while in office. The outgoing Chairperson cited achievements since 2021, including strengthening accountability through audit processes, rebuilding international partnerships and increasing women’s participation in ALAT activities.
