Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan has announced a wide-ranging cabinet reshuffle, unveiling a new 27-member cabinet aimed at strengthening government performance and introducing new leadership as the country navigates the sixth term of her administration. The announcement was made from the Chamwino State House in Dodoma, highlighting both the establishment of new ministries and changes to existing portfolios.
Among the key appointments, President Samia has named her daughter, Wanu Ameir, as Deputy Minister of Education, Science, and Technology, and Paul Makonda from Arusha as Deputy Minister of Information, Culture, Arts, and Sports. Additionally, Mohammed Mchengerwa, another family member, has been appointed Minister of Health.
Several former ministers have returned to the cabinet, including Professor Adolph Mkenda, Jumaa Aweso, Professor Makame Mbarawa, and Professor Paramagamba Kabudi. However, some prominent figures from the previous administration, such as Hussein Mohamed Bashe, the former Minister of Agriculture, were not reappointed. The new Minister of Agriculture is Daniel Chongolo.
The government confirmed that all newly appointed ministers and deputies are expected to be sworn in today in Dodoma.
The reshuffle comes amid ongoing scrutiny and criticism of the government’s handling of political protests following recent elections. Reports indicated clashes between security forces and demonstrators, including restrictions on internet access across the country. While opposition groups claimed hundreds of casualties, the UN reported ten deaths, a figure denied by the Tanzanian government.
Hussein Mohamed Bashe, a well-known Tanzanian politician of Somali descent, was previously Minister of Agriculture and had served as Deputy Minister in the same ministry. Born on August 26, 1975, in Nzega, Tabora, Bashe has been a member of the ruling CCM party and has represented the Nzega constituency in Parliament since 2015. Beyond politics, he is recognized as a successful businessman in Tanzania’s agricultural sector. In 2021, his private ventures in agriculture were estimated to generate between $3 million and $5 million annually.
The cabinet reshuffle reflects President Samia’s commitment to enhancing government efficiency, addressing political challenges, and introducing new faces to lead key ministries, while ensuring continuity with experienced officials returning to strategic posts.
