The Minister of State in the President’s Office Regional Administration and Local Government (TAMISEMI), Mohamed Mchengerwa, has said that President Samia Suluhu Hassan is determined to bring government services closer to citizens to drive meaningful development especially in rural and low-income areas.
Speaking at the Arusha Economic Forum on May 3, 2025, Mchengerwa said, “The Sixth Phase Government is committed to making sure that even the most remote communities benefit from government services and development opportunities.”
He explained that the focus is on empowering people by improving access to information, services, and opportunities.
“We want to break the chains of poverty and isolation by equipping our people with knowledge, infrastructure, and the ability to make decisions about their own development,” he said.
. Mchengerwa stressed that development should not rely solely on central government decisions. “We are in an era where progress depends on our regions and local authorities on their vision, leadership, and ability to act strategically,” he noted.
He emphasized the importance of inclusive governance, stating, “Good governance means enabling every citizen to participate in shaping the national dream. It’s about fairness, strong institutions, and managing our resources with integrity.”
The minister highlighted the impact of the Decentralization by Devolution (D-by-D) policy, saying, “Local governments now have the authority to plan and implement projects based on their citizens’ priorities. That’s real economic democracy.”
He urged regional leaders to go beyond talk and take action. “This forum must be a source of new ideas, not just discussions. It should lead to investments that create jobs and transform lives,” he said.
Mchengerwa called for faster development of identified investment areas. “We must plan professionally, survey accurately, compensate fairly, and build roads, water systems, and electricity without delay,” he directed.
He insisted on the inclusion of all citizens in development efforts. “No one should be left out whether rich or poor, male or female, from the city or the village. Everyone has a role,”
Both Mchengerwa urged the use of modern knowledge and technology. “Let’s learn from others, protect our resources, and build investments that are smart, resilient, and sustainable,”