Africa-Press – Tanzania. THE Civic United Front (CUF) has officially launched its national election campaign ahead of the upcoming General Election, with its presidential candidate Mr Gombo Samandito making bold pledges, including free healthcare for all Tanzanians.
“In two minutes after I am sworn in, I will declare free healthcare in all public hospitals,” said Mr Samandito, while addressing a gathering at the campaign launch at the Furahisha grounds in Mwanza Region.
He added that his administration would establish local industries to manufacture medical drugs and equipment, aimed at reducing dependency on foreign donours and bringing essential health services closer to the people.
Mr Samandito also promised to provide free education from kindergarten to university, arguing that Tanzania has sufficient resources to fund the sector, what is lacking, he said, is proper allocation.
“I worked as a public servant for a long time, I know where the money is,” he asserted.
In addition, he pledged to prioritise vocational training, ensuring that graduates are equipped with practical skills for self-employment and job creation.
On infrastructure, the CUF candidate said his government would focus on completing ongoing strategic projects like the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) and initiate new lines, including Mtwara to Mbamba Bay SGR and Mbamba Bay to Mchuchuma–Makambako SGR, aimed at facilitating iron and coal transportation.
He also pledged to modernise the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) from cape standard to SGR.
In the mining sector, Mr Samandito said his administration would review existing laws to allow direct government investment in mining, with the goal of earning 100 per cent of the profits rather than relying solely on royalties and taxes.
To resolve frequent land-related conflicts in mining areas, he proposed that applicants for mining licenses must possess legal title deeds, ensuring better protection for local communities.
While commending the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) government for strengthening the country’s security apparatus, Mr Samandito noted that more must be done to protect citizens.
CUF National Chairperson, Professor Ibrahim Lipumba, echoed these sentiments, stating that the party is committed to improving governance and human rights and that Mr Samandito has a clear understanding of the root causes of many national challenges.
“He knows where the problems originate and he has the solutions. Solving them will drive economic growth,” Prof Lipumba said.
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