Makonda takes charge,outlines ambitious goals

Dar es Salaam. New Arusha Regional Commissioner, Paul Makonda, has hit the ground running today, April 8, 2024, outlining his priorities that will define his leadership as President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s representative in the area.

Speaking in a live broadcast, he detailed at least six targets that he intends to closely monitor during his time there.

These goals include laying the groundwork for justice, accountability, tourism, the economy, stability, and security, as well as addressing public concerns.

Mr Makonda expressed pride in his achievements in his previous position as the Secretary of Ideology and Publicity of the Chama cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party.

He stated that, despite his short time in that position, he has managed to accomplish significant things that will remain memorable.

He emphasised that the importance lies not in the duration of time in a position but in the impact left behind.

Regarding his performance during that period, Mr Makonda highlighted his journey to witness reality in various areas, stating that he visited 23 regions and accomplished substantial work during that time.

“In history, no CCM propagandist has ever stayed for five months, but during my first five months, I have travelled 11,593 kilometres, visited 23 regions, and accomplished significant things that will not be erased. Because it’s not about how long you’ve stayed but about what mark you’ve left in the position you came from,” said Mr Makonda.

He said even his stay in Arusha will not be defined by the time he spends as Regional Commissioner but rather by what he will accomplish during that time.

“I should have reported the day before yesterday, and I should be at the location today. I constantly want to move more quickly,” he said.

Prior to the appointment and his subsequent swearing in, he held the position of CCM’s Ideology and Publicity secretary.

Mr Makonda said that under his leadership, he will undertake six actions, with the first being to establish a foundation of justice. He emphasised that if he fails to be a leader of justice, he won’t only be denying justice to the people of Arusha but also to himself and his descendants.

“Mistreated citizens, oppressed individuals, those delayed and misled in obtaining their rights—I have come to stand on their behalf. Whether someone is in Ngaramtoni, Monduli, or anywhere else, be it Arumeru, as long as you have a right and you know it’s rightfully yours, I won’t care if you’re uneducated or poor. I won’t care if you have influential relatives. I will stand in my position to ensure you get your justice,” Mr Makonda said.

He urged the employees of the region to understand that his primary foundation for performance is to ensure justice for the citizens.

Accountability is the second thing he mentioned, stating that although initially well-received, people will soon turn against him because he doesn’t care who the employee is or how they obtained their position; his concern is ensuring that everyone fulfils their responsibilities.

“Don’t think that just because someone was a propagandist, now that they’ve left that role, they’ve cooled down. Some people may think I’ve learned something. I haven’t learned anything other than dealing with slackers, the lazy, and the corrupt,” said Mr Makonda.

In a recent address, an official identified as Mr Makonda called upon employees in Arusha Region to embrace their responsibilities and prioritise accountability in their respective positions.

Mr Makonda emphasised the significance of understanding duties and executing them efficiently, reminding employees that their salaries are funded by taxpayers.

Addressing a gathering, Mr Makonda lamented the time wasted on explanations, contrasting it with the urgency of their duties. He stressed the importance of empathy in accountability, urging individuals to consider the impact of their actions on others. Makonda highlighted instances where accountability lapses have left citizens disillusioned and emphasised the need for self-accountability.

Turning to economic matters, Makonda outlined plans to bolster tourism in the region, identifying conference tourism, sports tourism, and traditional wildlife tourism as focal points.

He stressed the need for safety measures to ensure a conducive environment for tourists, advocating for cleanliness and proper infrastructure.

Moreover, Mr Makonda emphasised economic diversification, indicating intentions to engage with local business owners to understand their needs and aspirations.

He pledged to prioritize economic sectors such as mining, industries, and agricultural value addition, with a commitment to addressing citizen concerns.

The official’s remarks underscore a comprehensive strategy aimed at fostering both economic development and accountability within Arusha Region.

As stakeholders await further developments, Makonda’s vision appears poised to chart a path towards sustainable growth and prosperity in the region.