In a widely applauded move during this year’s Labour Day celebrations in Singida, President Samia Suluhu Hassan announced a 35.1% increase in the minimum wage for public sector workers—a decision she framed as both a reward for resilience and a sign of Tanzania’s improving economic health.
Effective July 2025, the minimum wage for public officials will rise from TSh370,000 (approximately $137) to TSh500,000 ($186), marking one of the most significant salary adjustments in recent years.
The announcement came against the backdrop of cheers and optimism, as thousands gathered to commemorate workers’ contributions to national development. President Hassan, addressing the crowd, was clear about what drove the decision.
“This is for your hard work and unwavering commitment to the nation—even when we asked you to tighten your belts,” she said. “You stood firm, and now, as the economy improves, it’s only right that you feel the benefits too.”
The President credited the country’s 5.5% economic growth rate as a sign of stability and progress, much of it made possible, she said, by the tireless efforts of Tanzania’s public workforce. Reflecting on last year’s Labour Day speech, she acknowledged that economic pressures had made a wage increase unfeasible at the time. But this year, the story is different.
“Despite the tough times, we continued to promote staff and improve benefits,” she noted. “Now, with the economy growing steadily, we have the space to do more. And we must.”
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Beyond the public sector, President Hassan also spotlighted plans for improving private sector conditions. She mentioned that the country’s Minimum Wage Board is currently reviewing wage structures in that sector, hinting at broader reforms to come.
For many workers, this announcement is more than just a pay raise—it’s a morale boost and a reaffirmation that their efforts during leaner years have not gone unnoticed. The President’s remarks struck a deeply emotional chord for public servants who have faced stagnant wages amid rising living costs.
In closing, she urged citizens to remain united and peaceful as the nation heads toward general elections in October.
“Let’s continue building our country together,” she said. “And as we move forward, let’s carry the same spirit of unity, hard work, and love for Tanzania.”
As reactions continue to pour in from unions, economists, and civil servants, one thing is clear: this Labour Day, Tanzanian workers had more than just speeches to celebrate—they had tangible progress in hand.
