Vision 2050: Govt mulls stiffer penalties for public funds embezzlers

Unguja. Zanzibar’s President Hussein Mwinyi has warned that severe penalties will be imposed on individuals involved in misusing public funds during the implementation of the Vision 2050 National Development Plan.

The President emphasised that any public servants found guilty of mismanagement or providing unsatisfactory services would face stringent consequences.

Dr Mwinyi made the statement on December 11, 2024, during the launch of the Vision 2050 draft in Unguja.

He stressed that the successful realisation of the vision depends on strong leadership, peace, security, and stability, noting that it is essential for government officials to demonstrate responsibility and transparency in their work.

“While we aim to praise those who perform well, we will impose harsh penalties on those who misuse public funds, fail to meet targets, or provide poor services,” Dr Mwinyi said.

“To achieve these goals, we must ensure that the foundation of Vision 2050 is built on a robust, inclusive, and competitive economy,” he added.

The President further highlighted the government’s role in creating a conducive environment for business and investment, encouraging collaboration with the private sector, and promoting human development for the betterment of society.

“Leadership, peace, security, and unity are crucial. Without these, no development can take place,” Dr Mwinyi stated.

He emphasised that Vision 2050 would require a focus on integrated infrastructure, science and technology, research, and innovation.

These sectors would be prioritised for their potential to create jobs, stimulate exports, and drive economic and environmental improvements.

“The success of this vision will rely on transformative sectors that contribute to sustainable growth. This includes prioritising these sectors in budgets to foster a high middle-income economy by 2050,” added Dr Mwinyi.

He also reiterated that Vision 2050 would ensure effective management and protection of national resources, including public funds for development projects and daily operations.

He acknowledged the importance of public participation in shaping the vision, which would promote national unity and alignment with both regional and international agreements.

The vision’s five main goals include building a resilient middle-income economy, improving living standards for all Tanzanians, promoting inclusive governance, and conserving the environment for future generations.

The vision also focuses on addressing climate change and ensuring that citizens have access to quality education.

Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa highlighted that since the launch of the vision preparation process in April 2023, significant progress has been made in aligning the plan with global developments.

He noted that the committee had gathered feedback from 1.1 million citizens, within Tanzania and the diaspora, through various channels, including social media.

“The draft belongs to the people of Tanzania. We’ve ensured that opinions from as many citizens as possible are included in the process,” he said.

The minister of State in the Office of the President for Planning and Investment, Prof Kitila Mkumbo, explained that the first draft had undergone 11 stages, incorporating feedback from the public before the second draft was prepared.

The finalised version will be presented to Parliament in 2025, with President Samia Suluhu Hassan expected to launch the program in May or June next year.

Zanzibar’s minister for Finance and Planning, Dr Saada Mkuya, confirmed that the Isles have been actively involved in the process, emphasising that the document included views of the Zanzibaris.

She pointed to examples of progress already being made in Zanzibar, such as the shift toward a cashless society and curriculum reforms in education.

“We are already taking steps towards the goals outlined in Vision 2050,” Dr Mkuya said, noting that the government’s efforts are aligned with the long-term objectives of the plan.