Africa-Press – Tanzania. THE government has said that processes are underway to formalise resolved Union matters through legal frameworks.
Deputy Minister in the Vice President’s Office (Union and Environment), Mr Khamis Hamza Khamis, informed the National Assembly yesterday while responding to a basic question by Mwera MP Zahor Mohamed Haji (CCM).
The legislator wanted to know when the government would table a bill so that Union-related issues that have already been resolved can be formalised into law.
Responding, the deputy minister said that to date, a total of 22 Union matters have already been resolved through various mechanisms.
He noted that the government continues to resolve emerging issues while ensuring they meet the criteria for classification as Union matters.
Mr Khamis further explained that a recent meeting of the Joint Committee of the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania and the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar, held on April 4, 2025, at State House in Dar es Salaam, instructed the offices of the Attorney General from both sides to work on the matter.
“Once the Attorney General submits the implementation report, the information will be made public,” he said.
He said the government will continue to address Union challenges as they arise, by observing designated criteria to ensure the continued growth and stability of the Union.
Mr Khamis said that not every issue qualifies as a Union challenge. Some are sector-specific and are resolved at the ministerial or departmental level without being categorised as Union matters.
“There are clear criteria we use to identify Union challenges,” he explained. “For instance, if a particular sector has failed to reach consensus despite holding meetings, the matter is brought to the Vice President’s Office, which is responsible for Union coordination. From there, it is discussed at various levels, starting with technical experts, followed by permanent secretaries, and then ministers, before a resolution is reached,” he said.
He added that another key consideration is the prevailing national context.
“Some challenges arise due to the specific situation at the time, and we are compelled to act accordingly. The weight or seriousness of the issue also determines whether it should be treated as a Union matter or handled within regular ministerial frameworks,” he noted.
The deputy minister clarified that while some issues carry significant national implications and warrant full Union-level deliberation, others are minor and can be resolved without being listed among official Union challenges.
In addition to handling emerging issues, Mr Khamis said the government is also undertaking efforts to educate the public on the importance, origins, and benefits of the Union between Tanganyika and Zanzibar.
He noted that such awareness initiatives are essential in fostering national unity.
The Union between the two sides, formed in 1964, has remained a cornerstone of Tanzania’s stability and progress. He said the government will continue to strengthen it through constructive dialogue, institutional collaboration, and inclusive engagement
For More News And Analysis About Tanzania Follow Africa-Press
