The 153rd Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly, currently underway in Arusha, Tanzania, has provided a platform for the country to highlight its progress in good governance and democracy. According to Damas Ndumbaro, Chairperson of the Tanzania IPU Parliamentary Group, Tanzania has made significant strides in this area, despite some viewing its progress from a narrow perspective. Ndumbaro emphasized that the country's governance and democracy are built on principles of national leadership, with a history of various constitutions, including the 1961, 1962, 1965, and 1977 constitutions.
Ndumbaro further explained that Tanzania's democracy is characterized by multiparty elections, where various political parties participate, and the rule of law, which ensures that individuals are tried and prosecuted in accordance with the law. He noted that good governance is not just about elections, but also about respect for the law and the protection of individual rights. The IPU Assembly has brought together over 2,000 delegates from across the globe, providing a unique opportunity for Tanzania to showcase its progress and learn from others.
The Assembly has already started to bring benefits to local communities, with increased activity in various sectors such as hotels, transport operators, and other businesses. Aziza Mayeye, Member of Parliament for Kigoma North, noted that the event has created multiplier effects, with more people benefiting from businesses and service providers in Arusha and neighboring regions. The increased international activity has also provided opportunities for Tanzanian businesses to benefit from the presence of international delegates.
Dr. Pindi Chana, a lawmaker, commended President Samia Suluhu Hassan for her leadership, particularly on issues affecting the country, as she welcomed delegates to experience a different atmosphere. Chana highlighted the importance of Kiswahili as a language that connects Tanzania with other African countries, while calling for greater cooperation among nations with different linguistic and cultural backgrounds. She also praised the participation of women in leadership, citing Tanzania's experience as evidence that women can successfully occupy senior positions and contribute to national and international decision-making.
Asha Juma Feruzi, another MP, noted that discussions at the Assembly are addressing issues that directly affect people's lives, including employment, education, social development, and citizen participation. She emphasized the importance of addressing violence affecting families and communities, saying parliamentary action should contribute to finding practical solutions to challenges facing citizens. Feruzi also highlighted the significance of youth forums held alongside the Assembly, which provided an opportunity to discuss education, employment, and social support for young people.
The IPU Assembly has also provided a platform for Tanzanian lawmakers to learn from others and strengthen cooperation. Dr. Chana described the Assembly as an opportunity for countries to learn from one another and strengthen cooperation. She also praised IPU President Dr. Tulia Ackson, saying Tanzania is proud of her achievements and her role on the international parliamentary stage.
The 153rd IPU Assembly is a historic opportunity for Tanzania to demonstrate what the country has to offer, while allowing international delegates to experience the country beyond the conference venue. With over 2,000 delegates in attendance, the event is expected to have a lasting impact on Tanzania's economy and international relations.
Key points
- Tanzania showcases its progress in good governance and democracy at the 153rd IPU Assembly.
- The Assembly has brought benefits to local communities, with increased activity in various sectors.
- Tanzanian lawmakers are using the Assembly as a platform to learn from others and strengthen cooperation.
