Friday 19th of March 2021, marked a new chapter for Tanzania, as the former Vice President Samia Suluhu Hassan became the first female President of Tanzania. This occurred two days after the passing of the former President John Pombe Magufuli.

Ms Samia’s inauguration took place at the State House in Dar Es Salaam, which is the largest city in Tanzania. It was observed by former presidents and members of the cabinet.

The 61-year-old is commonly known as ‘Mama Samia’ which, in Tanzanian customs, means she is regarded with great respect, instead of diminishing her to a gender-based role.

For many Tanzanians, this change of power has given them a sense of hope. Hassan is a known and trusted figure amongst her people and they believe she will bring about the necessary changes for the development of Tanzania as a country.

In a statement made by Joseph Aboubakar to VOA, he said: “We are praying (for) the best to her. Our mother has already taken the country’s leadership and we believe she will lead the country in a good direction.”

Joseph Aboubaker, who lives in Dar es Salaam, explained further that Mama Samia has been in a top political position for more than five years and therefore she is not new to leadership.

Kyande Muro, who also lives in Dar es Salaam, suggested the new president should focus on attaining more investments into Tanzania, which would increase the rate of jobs for the people. He also suggested that people’s incomes should be increased, building a successful future for Tanzania.

As the chairperson for the Tanzanian Media Women Association, Rose Reuben optimistically expressed that the leadership of Hassan will move Tanzania forward.

Samia Suluhu Hassan was elected as running mate in July 2015 beside John Pombe Magufuli, making her the first female running mate of the Chama Cha Mapinduzi ( CCM) party’s history. When Magufuli became the president in November 2015, Hassan became the first female Vice President of Tanzania and after five years of power Magufuli secured a second term in 2020’s October election.

The future of Tanzania is looking prosperous with Ms Samia in power. She stands as the first female president of the country and will serve the balance of Magufuli’s second five-year term, which is set to end in 2025.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan is an inspiration to us all and we wish her a prosperous journey ahead.