Africa-Press – Tanzania. WITH just months to go before the 2025 General Election, a new generation of voters, many of them university students are preparing to cast their first-ever ballots with a blend of enthusiasm, responsibility and hope for a better future.
For thousands of young Tanzanians who have recently reached voting age, this election represents more than a civic obligation—it is a rite of passage into democratic participation and national influence.
Richard Machibya, a 23-year-old resident of Dar es Salaam, sees the October 2025 polls as a turning point not just for Tanzania but for himself as well.
“This will be the first time I vote and I don’t take it lightly. October 2025 is not just another date on the calendar—it’s a decision-making moment. We’ll be electing people who will represent our aspirations and lead the country for the next five years,” said Richard.
He stressed that politics has a direct impact on daily life, especially for young people.
“Whether it’s education, employment opportunities, food prices, or public infrastructure— everything connects to politics. That’s why this election matters to me and many young Tanzanians,” he explained.
To him, voting is an essential step in influencing the quality of leadership and direction the country takes.
“I believe every young person must take time to understand the candidates, scrutinise their agenda and vote wisely. Our future depends on the choices we make,” he added.
At the University of Dar es Salaam’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication, second-year student Doris Kipangala is equally eager.
“I’m excited to experience this process for the first time. As a journalism student, I’ve studied elections and democracy in class, but now I get to be part of it as a voter,” Doris said.
She emphasised that voting is the most effective way for citizens to participate in decision-making and contribute to social change.
“This election offers me a chance to exercise my democratic right and play a part in shaping my society. I believe every vote counts,” she said.
She also noted that elections reinforce national values. “Democracy in Tanzania has helped us maintain peace, unity and development. That’s something I want to preserve by participating in the electoral process,” she added.
For 21-year-old Holiness Mbise, the upcoming elections are an opportunity for young Tanzanians to influence the national agenda.
“This election means a lot to me. I’m still finding my way in life and I believe our leaders play a huge role in creating opportunities for us to thrive. I want to vote for a leader who understands the struggles of the youth,” said Mbise.
She said issues like youth unemployment, access to quality education, affordable healthcare and job creation are at the top of her mind when thinking about her vote.
“We need leaders who are visionary and accountable,” she stressed. Another UDSM student, Fadhili Ikadika, also shared his anticipation of voting for the first time.
He believes that through the power of the ballot, young people can elect leaders who align with their values and hopes. “I want my voice to be part of Tanzania’s next chapter,” he said.
Emmanuel Mwela, a journalism undergraduate, expressed strong faith in Tanzania’s electoral system. He said he is looking forward to a peaceful, free and fair election, as has been the country’s tradition.
“I believe Tanzania’s electoral institutions will ensure a transparent process. I know there are online complaints and concerns, but I trust that the government and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will handle issues accordingly,” said Emmanuel.
He added that being politically aware and engaged has given him a sense of pride and responsibility.
“This is my first time voting and I’m proud of that. It’s a step towards becoming a fully engaged citizen,” he said.
In Zanzibar, 25-year-old Hamza Ame Ali from Amaani, Unguja, also expressed excitement about participating in his first general election.
“Reaching voting age is something I’ve long awaited. I now have a chance to make my voice count in choosing leaders who will represent us at the national and regional levels,” he said.
Hamza urged fellow youth to embrace peace throughout the election period and focus on the bigger picture—building a stable and prosperous nation.
“Peaceful elections mean we can focus on our studies, pursue our dreams and contribute to national development. I want to see both Mainland and Zanzibar move forward together,” he added.
Daniel Kiliginyi, a secondyear student and leader of the Dar es Salaam University Student Organisation (DARUSO), noted that youth are feeling empowered by the opportunity to vote.
“We’ve talked about politics in classrooms and dining halls for years, but now we finally get to make an actual decision. This is an empowering moment,” said Daniel.
He urged all eligible students not to miss their chance to vote. “Let’s turn out in large numbers. This is our future we’re voting for,” he said.
Kiliginyi also made a special appeal to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to accommodate academic schedules when setting the election date.
“Some students might be on fieldwork or exams. We ask INEC to take this into consideration so no student is left out,” he urged.
The growing enthusiasm among first-time voters points to a promising future for Tanzanian democracy.
Their willingness to engage in national issues, scrutinise leadership and contribute through voting reflects a maturing citizenry.
As Tanzania continues to build a democratic culture grounded in peace and participation, the involvement of young people—especially first-time voters—adds new energy to the process.
Their voices, dreams and determination signal a future in which democracy is not only protected but also strengthened by every new generation that steps forward to cast their first vote.
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