Africa-Press – Tanzania. Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has urged citizens to uphold the country’s cherished values of peace, unity, and solidarity as the nation marks its 64th Independence Day.
In a message shared Tuesday, President Suluhu congratulated Tanzanians on the milestone while reflecting on the foundations that have sustained the country’s stability and progress since 1961.
“Happy 64th Independence Anniversary to our nation,” she wrote on X.
This, while expressing gratitude to God for the journey the country has travelled.
“As we celebrate this important day, let us remind each other of the importance of safeguarding our national values of peace, unity, and solidarity. These values are the foundation of our progress and are a unique example for Africa and the world at large,” she said.
The President noted that the gains of independence continue to manifest in Tanzania’s ability to make sovereign decisions and implement development programmes that benefit citizens and protect national interests.
These achievements, she said, honour the vision of the country’s founding leaders.
“The fruits of our independence continue to be seen in our ability to decide, plan, and execute development initiatives that uplift our people. These are the gains our founders fought for, and ones we will always protect,” she stated.
She encouraged Tanzanians to take pride in their independence and remain steadfast in safeguarding it.
“Let us celebrate, take pride in, protect, and cherish our independence. God Bless Tanzania,” said Suluhu.
This year’s celebrations, however, come against an unusual backdrop.
Tanzania is marking Independence Day with reports of noticeably heavier security presence in major cities, following concerns over potential protests.
The country’s Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemna announced on December 8 that there would be no national celebrations urging citizens to stay indoors.
Streets in Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, Arusha, and Mwanza saw increased deployment of police officers from early morning, a departure from the traditionally festive atmosphere that has characterised past Independence Day commemorations.
Authorities said the security measures were precautionary, aimed at ensuring peace throughout the day.
Despite this, public participation in open-air celebrations appeared more subdued, with fewer gatherings and activities reported compared to previous years.
President Suluhu’s message appeared to indirectly acknowledge the tense national mood, reminding citizens that Tanzania’s long-standing peace remains its greatest asset.
This year’s celebrations would have been Suluhu’s first national celebration since the October 29 general elections which saw declared the winner.
Following the elections, protests were witnessed in various parts of the country that even led to killings by police.
