Government wants public-private partnerships that focus on real intervention

Dar es Salaam. The government has urged the public and private sectors to redefine their relationship by embracing collaboration that extends beyond tax obligations.

Minister of State in the President’s Office for Planning and Investment, Prof Kitila Mkumbo, made the call in Dar es Salaam on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, during the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Breakfast Meeting.

The event was co-hosted by Mwananchi Communications Limited (MCL) and Vodacom Tanzania under the theme “Connecting for Good: People, Planet, Possibilities.”

Prof Mkumbo said government is traditionally seen as a tax collector and the private sector as a taxpayer.

“We must look beyond that and recognise each other as partners in national development,” he said, stressing that partnerships should go beyond formal arrangements.

“The partnerships we pursue must deliver real interventions. The government is central, but the private sector and state-owned enterprises also have vital roles to play,” he added.

He stressed that a change in mindset on both sides is critical.

“It begins with rethinking attitudes. The government should not see the private sector merely as a source of tax, and the private sector should not see the government only as a collector. We must recognise each other as playing equally important roles,” he said.

Digitalisation key to bringing services closer to citizens

Prof Mkumbo also highlighted the role of digitalisation in transforming governance and service delivery, noting that traditionally citizens had to visit government offices to access services.

“Today, and in our vision for the 21st century, government should not only be closer to the people but follow them wherever they are. This is only possible through digitalisation,” he said.

He added that every aspect of socio-economic development will increasingly depend on digital systems.

“Our priority is ensuring affordable access, which is why Vodafone’s role is vital. We are working together to make digitalisation accessible, simple and inclusive for all Tanzanians,” he explained.

Inclusion key in accessing products

Vodacom Tanzania Chief Executive Officer, Philip Besiimire, said the journey towards ESG integration must start with individual commitment in various ways.

He noted that for years the company has focused on providing connectivity, which he described as the foundation for building services and products, while the next step is driving inclusion.

“Inclusion is about how every Tanzanian can access and use products, and how they can engage in the digital world meaningfully,” he said.

He added: “We can play an important role in society by ensuring people are included. That is the beauty of technology.”

ESG journey rooted in connectivity

Reflecting on Vodacom’s 25-year journey, Mr Besiimire said connectivity has been central to enabling social and economic transformation.

“This is a journey we must all take in our own way. Looking back, Vodacom started with a singular focus on connectivity, and we celebrate 25 years of laying that foundation this month,” he said.

He explained that connectivity was about more than infrastructure.

“It required the right capabilities, the development of products and services, and creating multiple ways for customers to connect. Connectivity is the bedrock of everything we do,” he emphasised.