Human rights activists in Dar es Salaam praised U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris for recognizing President Samia Hassan’s efforts to strengthen democracy in Tanzania. During a ceremony on Thursday, Harris oversaw the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the United States and Tanzania that covers a broad range of issues. In a joint press briefing at Dar es Salaam State House, Harris lauded President Hassan, saying, “You have been a champion in terms of democratic reforms in this country and, in that way, have expanded our partnership… today is part of the strengthening of the relationship between our two countries.” The two nations also signed a five‑year assistance agreement worth $1.1 billion aimed at improving good governance and development.
Since assuming office in 2021, President Hassan has reversed many of the policies of her late predecessor, John Magufuli, which critics said suppressed opposition and dissent. She has lifted media restrictions, ended the ban on political rallies, and recently pledged to restore competitive politics. Speaking at the event, Hassan told the vice president that she is committed to strengthening democracy, noting, “Acceptable democratic space has been a major concern of my government. We have endeavored to build a democratic state that upholds transparency and respect of the rule of law.”
Anna Henga, executive director of the Legal and Human Rights Center in Tanzania, said the current situation offers “some relief” for human rights. “We cannot deny that we haven’t yet reached where we want to be, but the world can see the moves that Tanzania is making toward democracy. Therefore, I was not surprised by Harris’s remarks. As for the U.S. support, I believe it will continue and I’m hopeful that we’ll reach our desired destination.”
Bob Wangwe, head of the Tanzania Constitutional Forum (Jukwaa la Katiba), argued that Tanzania needs constitutional reforms that would allow presidential results to be challenged and enable independent candidates to run for office. “I think that these engagements and the statement from Kamala will ultimately advance democracy in this country,” he said, “and I am looking forward to the substantial steps the government has to undertake.” Wangwe added that reforms should strengthen institutions to improve accountability.
Vice President Harris left Tanzania on Friday for Zambia, the final stop on her tour of three African countries that began in Ghana.
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