President Samia Suluhu Hassan has reaffirmed that peace and security are the foundation of Tanzania’s development agenda, saying the country cannot achieve sustainable economic growth or become a leading trade hub in Africa without a stable and secure environment.

Speaking during the foundation stone laying ceremony for the Tabora–Kigoma Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) project and the launch of four new cargo vessels for Lake Tanganyika, the President said the government is making major investments to strengthen transport infrastructure and improve regional trade.

She explained that projects such as the Tabora–Kigoma SGR, the upgrading of Kigoma Port and the introduction of new cargo vessels are intended to help Tanzania make better use of its strategic geographical position while increasing trade with neighbouring countries.

President Samia noted that these projects require substantial public investment and therefore must be protected from any threats that could disrupt their operation or damage national assets.She urged all Tanzanians to prioritise peace and security, stressing that development goals can only be achieved when the country remains stable.

The President also directed the country's security organs to work closely with the Ministry of Transport to establish effective and inclusive measures for protecting railways, ports, roads and other strategic infrastructure.

Her remarks underline the government's commitment to safeguarding major infrastructure projects so they can deliver long-term economic benefits, improve transport connectivity and support Tanzania’s ambition of expanding regional trade and national development.