MWE Correspondent
Tanzania’s Minister for Home Affairs, Innocent Bashungwa, has requested Parliament to approve a proposed budget of TZS 2.07 trillion for the fiscal year 2025/2026, highlighting key priorities such as crime prevention, infrastructure improvement, and enhanced civil security.
The presentation was made during a Parliamentary session held in Dodoma, the country’s capital, where the minister outlined the government’s renewed commitment to ensuring public safety and strengthening national security structures amid both traditional and emerging threats.
“Our national interest comes first. This budget will empower our forces and institutions to safeguard Tanzania’s peace, especially as we move toward Vision 2025,” said Bashungwa.
Security and Infrastructure at the Forefront
The proposed funding includes:
- Recruitment of Over 7,600 Security Personnel
A large portion of the funds will go toward hiring 5,256 new police officers, along with additional personnel in immigration, prisons, and fire services. These reinforcements aim to boost national response capabilities in rural and urban areas alike. Learn more about the Tanzania Police Force. - Crackdown on Cybercrime and Digital Threats
The ministry reported a 13.5% decline in cybercrime and a 7.2% reduction in general crime. These achievements come amid increased investment in cybersecurity infrastructure and inter-agency collaboration. Search cybercrime trends in Africa. - Safe Cities Project with CCTV Surveillance
As part of the Safe Cities Initiative, 4,100 high-definition CCTV cameras are scheduled to be installed across Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, Arusha, and other major urban centers. The move is expected to improve response time and reduce street-level crime. - Construction of Modern Police Infrastructure
Several regions—such as Manyara, Geita, Songwe, and Simiyu—will see major upgrades in police housing, detention facilities, and operational equipment.Also Read; Empowering Communities and Young People
The minister also emphasized the need for societal involvement in maintaining peace. He praised campaigns like “Tuwaambie kabla hawajaharibiwa”—a nationwide initiative aimed at warning and educating students about the dangers of crime and radicalization.
Over 7 million Tanzanians have been reached by community awareness programs focused on gender-based violence (GBV), youth crime, and drug abuse.
“Our citizens are our first line of defence,” Bashungwa noted. “Through information sharing and public vigilance, we can eliminate threats before they grow.”
Alignment with Vision 2025 and Global Engagement
The proposed security budget is in line with Tanzania’s Development Vision 2025, which seeks to make the country a middle-income economy through inclusive development, good governance, and peace. It also positions Tanzania to benefit from international partnerships and events, such as the upcoming World Expo Osaka 2025, where the country aims to attract investors and tourists.
