MWE Correspondent
President Samia Suluhu Hassan used a major defence leadership meeting in Tanga Region to emphasize that peace and stability remain the foundation of Tanzania’s development, calling on military commanders to protect both the nation and its people so citizens can fully pursue economic and social progress.
Addressing senior leaders of the Tanzania People’s Defence Force (TPDF) at the Ninth Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Commanders’ Conference held at the Air Defence Training College, President Samia framed national security as inseparable from development. “Development cannot flourish without peace,” she stressed, urging commanders to uphold professionalism and unwavering commitment to public safety.
As Commander‑in‑Chief of the defence forces, Samia highlighted the importance of a secure environment that allows Tanzanians to pursue education, business, infrastructure projects, and community services without fear of disruption. Her remarks reflect a broader focus by the government on strengthening internal security mechanisms in a period marked by heightened political sensitivities following the contested 2025 general elections in Tanzania — an episode that saw significant unrest and heightened security deployments in major cities.
“We must ensure that our people feel protected, and that peace is preserved,” the President said, stressing that the TPDF must remain a stabilizing force for families, communities, and the nation at large. Commanders were urged to adopt the conference theme “Strong Security and Peace: The Foundation of Our Nation’s Development” as a guide in implementing strategic defence planning and operational preparedness.
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During the address, Samia underscored the dual role of the defence forces — not only in defending the country’s borders but also in supporting disaster response and assisting civilian authorities during emergencies. She called for enhanced training, modernization of equipment, and increased focus on morale and welfare for service members, reinforcing her government’s commitment to a capable and resilient military.
The President’s appeal for security and unity arrives amid ongoing calls for national reconciliation and responsible governance from various sectors in Tanzania. Religious and community leaders have previously praised her focus on peace, especially in times of political tension, highlighting how maintaining calm is essential for the country’s future.
Analysts note that in a region where economic growth and social development are closely tied to political stability, national leaders often reinforce security narratives as a pillar of public confidence and foreign investment. For Tanzania, where infrastructure projects, tourism, and agricultural expansion remain vital, assurances of peace play a key role in projecting a reliable and progressive image abroad.
