In a major boost for Tanzania’s workforce, President Samia Suluhu Hassan has announced a 35.1% increase in the minimum wage for public servants.
The declaration came during the International Workers’ Day celebrations held in Singida, where thousands gathered to mark the occasion.
The new adjustment will raise the minimum monthly salary for public servants from TSh 370,000 to TSh 500,000, beginning July 2025. The President attributed the increase to the hard work and resilience of Tanzanian workers, who contributed to a 5% growth in the national economy over the past year.
“Because of your strong support and hard work in growing our economy, I’m happy to announce that the government will increase the minimum salary for public servants by 35.1 percent. Workers, hooray!” President Samia declared to loud cheers.
The Head of State also acknowledged that while last year’s Labour Day message focused on economic caution, the improved fiscal space now allows for meaningful salary adjustments. “Other salary grades will also see an increase according to the available budget, but I want to assure you that the increase is coming,” she added.
According to data from Tanzania’s National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the country has over 550,000 public servants, with the broader working population exceeding 22 million. Approximately 70% of Tanzania’s workforce is engaged in agriculture, with many still earning below formal wage levels. The new policy is expected to provide relief to a significant portion of salaried workers and inject more purchasing power into the economy.
Labour unions have welcomed the move, calling it a long-awaited gesture of goodwill and a commitment to improving workers’ welfare. Analysts note that the increase could also have a ripple effect in the private sector, where wage adjustments often follow public sector benchmarks.
The announcement positions President Samia as a pro-labour leader as she continues to focus on economic reforms and inclusive growth.
