Samia urges peace and unity, pledges major infrastructure boost in Pemba

By Getrude Mbago , The Guardian
Published at 08:14 PM Sep 20 2025
CCM presidential candidate Samia Suluhu Hassan
Photo: CCM
CCM presidential candidate Samia Suluhu Hassan

CCM presidential candidate Samia Suluhu Hassan has appealed to Tanzanians to safeguard peace and unity ahead of the forthcoming elections, stressing that national harmony must not be compromised by political differences.

Speaking during her campaign rally in Pemba, Dr Samia reminded citizens that elections should not become a source of chaos, violence or division. “All of us are one, so I will not be happy to see my relatives beaten because of elections. Let me assure you that peace will prevail and voting will be conducted peacefully—so don’t hesitate,” she said.
She revealed that an elder in Zanzibar had reminded her that many citizens were tired of election-related clashes, urging Tanzanians to reject any attempts by individuals or groups seeking to disrupt the country’s hard-won peace.
 “There is nothing that we cannot resolve through dialogue and committees. If there are more complaints, we will work on them—but not at the expense of peace. As we gather in large numbers at campaign grounds, let that same spirit be reflected on polling day,” she added.
Alongside her call for peace, Samia unveiled major infrastructure and social service projects that her government has already implemented in Pemba and promised more if re-elected.
She cited the ongoing upgrading of Pemba Airport into an international facility at a cost of over 500bn/-, which will enable large planes from across the world to land on the island, boosting trade and tourism.
Roads such as the 43.5km Mkoani–Chake stretch and the Chake–Wete road are under major reconstruction to address long-standing transport challenges and reduce accidents.
Dr Samia further disclosed that five more key roads will be built in Pemba, while Wete Port will be constructed with support from a Republic of Korean loan. Education, health, power, and water supply projects have also been prioritised to improve the quality of life for island residents.
She highlighted the installation of new water tanks and teachers’ houses, creation of a more conducive business environment, and expansion of tourism as visible results of CCM’s leadership.
On the environment, she acknowledged the challenge of deforestation and excessive tree-cutting, announcing that her administration has launched a clean energy programme aimed at ensuring 80 percent of Tanzanians use renewable energy by 2034, replacing reliance on diesel and petrol.
Prof. Makame Mbarawa, CCM’s parliamentary candidate for Mkoani, also addressed the rally, commending Dr Samia for addressing the long-standing infrastructure gap in Pemba.
“For a very long time, Pemba residents suffered because of poor infrastructure, especially the airport and roads. Today, with massive investment, Pemba Airport and the Pemba–Mkoani road are under major construction. This will open new doors for tourism and economic growth,” he said.