The Tanzanian government has directed public servants and government institutions currently occupying rented buildings to vacate the premises and return to their designated offices within the new Government City in Dodoma. This directive was issued by Prof. Palamagamba Kabudi, Minister of State in the Office of the Prime Minister, on October 28, 2026. The move aims to consolidate government operations in the capital city.
The decision to relocate to Dodoma was first made in 1973 by President Julius Nyerere, with the process unfolding in phases. The pace of relocation accelerated during the Fifth Phase Government, accompanied by the enactment of legislation formally recognizing Dodoma as the country's capital. As a result, some government institutions were temporarily housed in buildings such as the University of Dodoma (UDOM).
The construction of the Government City began on November 28, 2018, with the first phase costing Sh39.39 billion. The second phase, which is nearly complete, has incurred expenses exceeding Sh940.8 billion. Prof. Kabudi announced that over 99% of the second phase has been completed, making it feasible for public servants to relocate to their new offices.
The Government City comprises 37 buildings within the main complex and 35 additional structures constructed outside the central area. Furthermore, the construction of 57.1 kilometers of road infrastructure has been finalized at a cost of over Sh110.5 billion. The official inauguration, scheduled for October 30, 2026, will be presided over by President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
The relocation of government institutions to Dodoma is part of a broader strategy to enhance governance and institutional performance in the capital city. This move is expected to streamline government operations and improve efficiency. The new Government City is equipped with modern infrastructure, providing a conducive working environment for public servants.
According to Prof. Kabudi, some government institutions were forced to occupy temporary premises, including those at the University of Dodoma, due to the ongoing construction of the Government City. With the completion of the buildings, these institutions are now required to return to their designated offices within the complex.
The official opening of the Government City marks a significant milestone in Tanzania's efforts to consolidate its government operations in Dodoma. The event is expected to be attended by high-ranking officials, and it will underscore the government's commitment to establishing a robust and efficient administrative framework in the capital city.
Key points
- The Tanzanian government has ordered institutions to relocate to the new Government City in Dodoma, with an official inauguration set for October 30, 2026.
- The construction of the Government City has incurred expenses exceeding Sh980 billion, with over 99% of the second phase completed.
- The relocation aims to enhance governance and institutional performance in the capital city, streamlining government operations and improving efficiency.
