Dar es Salaam. Dr Fred Msemwa’s appointment as the executive secretary of the Planning Commission marks yet another chapter in a career defined by a commitment to economic development, financial stewardship, and institutional transformation.
Dr Msemwa was appointed on Thursday by President Samia Suluhu Hassan to hold the position, replacing Mr Lawrence Mafuru, who passed away last November at Apollo Hospital in India, where he was hospitalized.
The new head of the Planning Commission is a distinguished financial expert, business strategist, and executive leader whose career has spanned multiple sectors, leaving an indelible mark on Tanzania’s economic landscape.
His expertise in real estate, banking, energy, and regulatory affairs makes his appointment as the Executive Secretary of the National Planning Commission a strategic choice.
Born on June 14, 1972 in Mbeya, Dr Msemwa pursued his early education at Idweli and Mbeya One Primary Schools before attending Iyunga Secondary School and later the prestigious Kibaha High School.
His academic journey led him to the Institute of Finance Management (IFM), where he earned an Advanced Diploma in Accountancy, followed by a CPA certification in 1997.
His thirst for knowledge took him to Birmingham City University, where he attained a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with distinction, and later, a PhD in Business Administration – Audit from the Open University of Tanzania.
He further sharpened his expertise through executive training at world-class institutions such as the University of Florida, the University of Cape Town, and the Institute of Public-Private Partnership (PPP) in the United States.
Armed with a formidable academic background, Dr Msemwa built a remarkable career spanning real estate, banking, energy and water regulation, fund management, media, education, tourism, petroleum and gas.
His 12 years in top management and eight years as a Chief Executive Officer reflect his depth of experience and leadership acumen.
He played a pivotal role in the transformation of the National Housing Corporation (NHC), where he introduced international financial reporting standards.
At just 32 years old, he was appointed Deputy Principal and later Acting Principal of the National College of Tourism, where he spearheaded the launch of the country’s first diploma programme in Travel and Tourism.
He later led the establishment of entrepreneurship courses to empower graduates with business skills.
His tenure as director of Internal Audit at the Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (Ewura) saw him lay the foundation for a robust audit function, cementing Ewura’s reputation as a leading regulatory body in Africa.
As CEO of Watumishi Housing Investments (WHI), Dr Msemwa championed the development of affordable housing through Tanzania’s first Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT).
This initiative provided thousands of public servants and middle-income earners with access to quality housing.
Under his stewardship, WHI also launched the FAIDA Fund, a groundbreaking digital investment platform that democratised access to financial markets for small-scale investors, including farmers, traders, students, and low-income workers.
Beyond corporate leadership, Dr Msemwa has served on numerous influential boards, including CRDB Bank Group, SAGCOT, Dawasa, BRELA and the National Board of Accountants and Auditors (NBAA).
His expertise has also been instrumental in shaping policies and regulations in the financial sector.
A respected scholar and thought leader, he has authored publications on financial management, taxation, and business strategy. His book, Usimamizi wa Biashara na Fedha, is widely regarded as a practical guide for entrepreneurs and professionals in Tanzania.
Dr Msemwa’s contributions have not gone unnoticed.
He has received several accolades, including the Best CEO of the Year award for public institutions in 2022 and recognition from the Tanzania Association of Accountants for his role in promoting small business growth.
His appointment to lead the National Planning Commission is a fitting recognition of his dedication to economic transformation.
As he takes on this pivotal role, all eyes will be on his ability to shape Tanzania’s economic future, leveraging his vast experience to drive sustainable development and inclusive growth.
Dr Fred Msemwa’s journey is far from over. It is a story of ambition, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence—a journey that continues to inspire professionals and policymakers alike.
