Tanzania will launch a pilot Universal Health Insurance (UHI) program within President Samia’s first 100 days. Health Minister Mohamed Mchengerwa said the government will fully fund the initiative through the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF). The program will cover vulnerable households and provide a Basic Essential Services Package of 372 health services. Citizens can enroll and pay online. It will later expand to private-sector workers and other residents.

Tanzania reached the World Bank’s highest GovTech maturity tier in the 2025 GovTech Maturity Index. The country adopted integrated digital government systems and developed core platforms, including the Human Capital Information Management System, Ajira Portal, and Government Enterprise Service Bus. These platforms enable secure data exchange, reduce duplication, and improve service delivery. Tanzania also offers online public services, citizen feedback via e-Mrejesho, and maintains a supportive legal and institutional framework.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan expressed regret over the six-day internet shutdown during Tanzania’s disputed October elections, which followed violence that rights groups say killed hundreds. Speaking to diplomats in Dodoma, she acknowledged the disruption and assured measures would prevent a recurrence. Hassan also announced clemency for 1,787 convicts linked to the unrest. A commission of inquiry has been established to investigate the post-election violence, which followed the barring of major opposition candidates.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan hosted Tanzania’s first New Year Diplomatic Sherry Party at Chamwino State House in Dodoma, meeting honorary consuls and chargés d’affaires. The event brought together diplomats, the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, and government officials, including the Foreign Affairs Minister and Chief Secretary. President Samia used the gathering to reaffirm Tanzania’s commitment to international cooperation, strengthen diplomatic ties, and emphasize the country’s focus on national renewal and engagement with foreign missions.

Tanzania maintains troops in northern Mozambique to support counter-insurgency operations against Islamic State Mozambique (ISM) militants. Tanzanian forces assist Rwandan and Mozambican troops in securing border areas, particularly in Macomia, Mocímboa da Praia, and Muidumbe districts, and in controlling militant movements from Tanzania. Despite seasonal declines in violence, ISM continues attacks, including ambushes and IED strikes, highlighting Tanzania’s ongoing role in regional security and efforts to curb cross-border insurgent activity.

Tanzania will close Nduta Refugee Camp, affecting over 50,000 Burundian refugees who have lived there for more than a decade. Authorities have demolished parts of the camp, leaving hundreds without shelter. Médecins Sans Frontières warned that forced or poorly managed returns could endanger lives and urged officials to ensure repatriation remains voluntary and informed. The government also plans to close Nyarugusu Camp by March 31, 2026.

Zanzibar’s port upgrade programme is emerging as a key driver of trade efficiency and tourism growth, backed by investments estimated at about $400 million. The multi-site expansion strategy covers major ports and a new dry port, aiming to reduce congestion and improve resilience. Authorities are also leveraging private sector participation to boost efficiency. If delivered on schedule, the upgrades could lower business costs, improve visitor experience, and strengthen Zanzibar’s role in Indian Ocean trade.

Tanzania inaugurated the 9.7 billion shilling Mtera power substation to strengthen the electricity supply in Dodoma and Iringa regions. The upgraded 2×10 MVA, 220/33 kV facility improves voltage stability and adds 18 megawatts to the national grid. The project benefits Kongwa, Mpwapwa, Kilolo, and Isimani areas, supporting healthcare, education, water services, and economic activity. The government funded the project with support from Sweden and Norway to advance rural electrification and grid reliability.

Airtel Tanzania launched a nationwide fuel rewards campaign at 62 fuel stations to promote cashless payments via Airtel Money. Customers who buy fuel worth at least Sh10,000 and pay via Airtel Lipa Namba enter weekly draws to win 10 liters of free fuel through March. The campaign aims to boost digital payments, improve transaction efficiency, and support Tanzania’s shift toward a digital economy.