Joseph Isangura
President Samia Suluhu Hassan has pledged tougher action against negligence and the misuse of public funds, warning that her government will hold public institutions and officials accountable wherever financial mismanagement is identified.
Speaking during the annual Dividend Day ceremony at the State House in Dar es Salaam on June 30, 2026, President Samia said safeguarding public resources is essential to sustaining Tanzania’s economic growth and ensuring that government institutions deliver value to citizens.
She stressed that accountability remains one of the cornerstones of her administration’s governance agenda, adding that institutions entrusted with managing public assets must operate with integrity, transparency and efficiency.
“We will commend ourselves when we perform well, and equally correct or strengthen ourselves where there are weaknesses. We will not hesitate to take action wherever we identify negligence and misuse of public funds,” President Samia said.
Her remarks came as the government announced record returns from state investments, with public institutions and companies in which the government holds shares contributing Sh1.32 trillion in dividends and other payments to the Treasury this financial year. The achievement reflects ongoing reforms aimed at improving the performance, profitability and governance of state-owned enterprises.
The President said the strong financial results demonstrate what can be achieved when institutions are managed responsibly, but cautioned that good performance must be accompanied by strict financial discipline and accountability.
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She noted that every shilling collected by the government should contribute to improving the lives of Tanzanians through investments in infrastructure, healthcare, education, energy and other essential public services.
President Samia emphasized that accountability is not solely about identifying wrongdoing but also about strengthening institutions, improving efficiency and ensuring that public resources are managed in the national interest.
Her administration has, in recent years, intensified reforms designed to enhance corporate governance across public institutions, improve financial oversight and increase returns from government investments.
Economists say effective management of public funds is critical for maintaining investor confidence, reducing fiscal pressure and creating the financial capacity needed to support Tanzania’s long-term development agenda.
As the country pursues ambitious infrastructure projects and industrial expansion, sound financial management has become increasingly important in ensuring that public investments generate sustainable economic benefits.
The President reaffirmed that the government would continue recognising institutions that demonstrate excellence while taking decisive corrective action against those that fail to uphold the highest standards of financial responsibility.
Her message underscored a broader commitment to building a public sector founded on transparency, efficiency and accountability—principles the government considers essential for achieving sustainable economic growth and strengthening public trust in state institutions.
