Speaking to ambassadors and representatives of international organisations at a diplomatic reception at the State House in Dodoma, President Hassan said global conflict, economic uncertainty and climate shocks had made diplomacy indispensable.
“In such a world, the value of diplomacy is not ceremonial; it is essential,” she said, adding that Tanzania remained convinced that “dialogue, cooperation and multilateral solutions are indispensable”.
Hassan said Tanzania would not be drawn into global rivalries, stressing that the country seeks cooperation rather than confrontation.
“We will not take sides in a divided world,” she said. “We will build bridges.”
She highlighted Tanzania’s engagement in African and multilateral institutions, congratulating newly elected governments across the continent and reaffirming support for the African Union’s goal of deeper integration and shared prosperity.
Peaceful political transitions abroad, she said, offered lessons that could guide reforms at home.
Turning to domestic politics, Hassan described Tanzania’s October 2025 general election as a milestone, noting that nearly 45% of lawmakers elected were women and that the election was financed entirely through domestic resources.
“That showed national ownership and institutional maturity,” she said.
She acknowledged, however, that unrest and violence followed the election, disrupting services and briefly cutting internet access. Addressing diplomats and foreign residents, Hassan offered an apology and reassurance.
“We recognise that stability is the currency of diplomacy,” she said, adding that authorities had acted to protect citizens and prevent a recurrence.
Hassan framed democracy as an evolving process rather than a fixed destination. “Democracy is a journey of growth,” she said, noting that every political system faces grievances and that there is no universal formula for resolving them.
She said her government had begun a process of national healing, including the pardon of 1,787 people linked to post-election violence, the establishment of an independent commission of inquiry, and a pledge to form a truth and reconciliation commission ahead of constitutional reforms.
She also announced the creation of a Ministry of Youth under her office to channel young people’s energy into national development.
“The voice of Tanzanians has been heard through the ballot box, and that voice must be respected,” she said.
Hassan said her second term would focus on rebuilding trust and strengthening institutions, insisting that recent tensions did not define the country.
“Our path forward will be paved with justice, dialogue and renewed respect for the democratic process,” she said. “We understand the mistakes of our past, but our eyes are firmly on the future.”
Tanzania, President Hassan said, remains open to cooperation, committed to multilateralism and determined to move forward without abandoning its sovereignty.
Notes to Editors
· President Samia Suluhu Hassan was addressing ambassadors and representatives of international organisations at a diplomatic reception held at State House, Dodoma.
· The speech focused on Tanzania’s foreign policy posture amid rising global fragmentation, conflict, economic uncertainty and climate-related shocks.
· The President emphasised Tanzania’s non-aligned approach, stating the country would not be drawn into global rivalries and would prioritise dialogue and cooperation.
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