THE government intends to conduct systematic modernization in the Tanzania People’s Defence Forces (TPDF) during the coming financial year.

Dr Stergomena Tax, the Defence and National Service minister, stated this objective in delivering 3.64trn/- budget estimates for fiscal 2025/26 focused on acquiring advanced weapons and technologies, upgrading military infrastructure and scaling up the National Service to train more youths.

Intended investments reflect the government’s long-term vision to strengthen national security while creating opportunities for young Tanzanians to develop discipline, skills and patriotism through National Service training, she said.

Procuring modern defence equipment and enhancing operational capacity to meet internal and regional security challenges are vital aspects of the programme, as the military needs to stay ahead of evolving threats, she said.

This is a strategic move to protect the country’s sovereignty and support peacekeeping efforts, she asserted, citing other priorities as construction and rehabilitation of military camps, schools and other training facilities.

These improvements are aimed at ensuring that soldiers and recruits operate in a safe, efficient and well-equipped environment, as the government improves infrastructure across National Service centres to facilitate significant uplift of enrolment, she said.

This strategy is aligned with the broader goal of preparing the youth for future roles in national defence and public services, she said, pointing out that the National Service plays a vital role in shaping responsible citizens.

Under the National Service Act, the programme provides military, civic and vocational training that equips the youth with valuable skills while promoting unity and patriotism, the minister noted.

Beyond youth training and infrastructure, the estimates also support the development of local military industries in collaboration with the private sector, she said.

This is part of a strategy to increase self-reliance in the production of defence equipment and reduce dependency on foreign suppliers, she explained, pointing at strengthening military research institutions to support innovation and long-term planning in the defence sector.

Defence diplomacy will be strengthened in ongoing partnerships with the United Nations, the African Union and regional security blocs, she said.

The government has also made substantial progress in resolving long-standing conflicts involving lands contested between the military and neighbouring residents, she said.

For fiscal 2024/25, a total of 15.34bn/- has been allocated for compensating communities affected by military projects in nine regions, while 39.89bn/- in pending compensation is being processed, the minister noted.

Lawmakers welcomed the defence estimates while appealing for enhanced coordination between ministries.

In its overview, the Foreign Affairs, Defence and Security standing committee of the National Assembly urged the Health ministry and the Treasury to support the purchase of equipment for the Msalato Military Referral Hospital in the capital, serving military personnel and civilians.

Geofrey Pinda, the Lands Housing and Human Settlements Development deputy minister, referred to concerns over safety hazards in abandoned military sites, with explosive leftovers, asking the Defence ministry to conduct proper assessments and clear such areas.

The minister urged the public to trust the military as it carries out its duties professionally and independently, in accordance with the constitution and other relevant legislation.

“We build a modern, professional and people-centred defence force—one that not only secures our borders, but also invests in our youth, national unity and long-term stability,” she added.