PRESIDENT Samia Suluhu Hassan yesterday swore in a number of top government officials, delivering a clear message that their appointments are a call to service, not a reward.

In the Chamwino State House ceremony, the president urged the leaders to embrace their roles as public servants, uphold the highest standards of integrity and adhere to the civil service code of ethics.

The president's address was marked by a series of specific, high-stakes directives aimed at accelerating key national development projects, with attention in part being directed at Amos Makalla, the former CCM publicity chief, as Arusha regional commissioner.

She said his appointment was bound up with a critical, time-sensitive mandate to supervise the region's preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals, which Tanzania will be co-hosting with Kenya and Uganda.

This includes the urgent construction and upgrading of sports infrastructure, transport systems and hospitality services to meet international standards, where the president’s directive underscores the government’s ambition to use the tournament as a catalyst for broader economic growth.

"We want Arusha to not only shine during AFCON but to grow into a stronger diplomatic and tourism center," she said, highlighting the city's strategic importance.

She similarly issued a direct order to the new regional administrative secretary for Dodoma, on the need to accelerate the implementation of several vital projects like ongoing construction of the Msalato International Airport.

The airport is seen as a crucial hub likely to significantly improve domestic and international connectivity, where recent reports say that construction has progressed to 72 percent for road surfacing and 39 percent for building works, with completion set for late 2025.

She stressed expediting works for the standard gauge railway (SGR), particularly the section linking the capital to outlying economic corridors asserting that the now operational first phase is a cornerstone of the nation’s vision for a modern, well-connected transport network.

"These projects are critical to our vision for a modern and well-connected Tanzania," she stated, insisting that there is no room for delay or mismanagement.

Dr Deo Mwapinga, the secretary general of the parliamentary forum for the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (FP-ICGLR) member states, was conferred with the rank of ambassador at the ceremony, with the president citing his extensive experience in diplomacy and regional governance as expected to strengthen Tanzania’s voice on the international stage.

In concluding remarks, the president urged all the newly appointed leaders to remain focused, proactive and people-centred, reinforcing the government's commitment to delivering tangible progress.

"This is a time to work—not to settle in comfort," she said in a message seen as a powerful call to action, setting a high standard for the new team as they embark on their respective duties, observers noted.