On 1 May 2025, President Samia Suluhu Hassan announced that the Government of Tanzania has raised the minimum wage for public servants by 35.1%, to TZS 500,000 per month.
The new wage level, which will take effect starting July 2025, was unveiled by the President during the International Workers’ Day celebrations held at Bombadia Grounds in Singida Region.
President Samia explained that the wage increase was made possible by the country’s improved economic performance, with GDP growth reaching 5.5% in 2024.
She attributed this growth to the dedication and hard work of Tanzanian workers, which enabled the government to make fiscal space for wage adjustments.
She also indicated that for the private sector, the Minimum Wage Board is currently conducting an evaluation aimed at improving minimum wage levels in that sector as well.
President Samia emphasized the government’s continued collaboration with workers in addressing their challenges and improving work conditions: “Our commitment is to keep improving workers’ welfare as circumstances permit. Building our country is a responsibility we all share, and that requires unity and stability.”
She also warned against the misuse of trade unions for political ends and reaffirmed their historical role in the country’s independence struggle: “Let’s not allow trade unions to be used to tarnish our nation. The history of trade unions is of movements that brought us independence. Let’s not betray that legacy.”
President Samia commended the Trade Union Congress of Tanzania (TUCTA), the umbrella organization for trade unions in the country, representing workers in both public and private sectors, for its professionalism in advocating for workers’ interests through the tripartite dialogue among government, employers, and employees.
She urged TUCTA to further strengthen its internal conflict resolution mechanisms among its member unions.
Regarding the upcoming General Elections for President, Members of Parliament, and Councillors, she called on workers to exercise their constitutional right to vote and choose leaders who will protect their interests.
Tanzania’s minimum wage is reviewed by the government based on economic performance, cost of living, and consultations with the Minimum Wage Board.
Before this latest increase, the minimum wage for public servants was TZS 370,000 per month, last adjusted in 2022.
Minimum wages vary by sector, and updates for private sector wages are handled separately through ongoing board assessments.
