Njombe. President Samia Suluhu Hassan has said the government will consider a new salary increase for public servants next year, urging workers to remain diligent and uphold professionalism as the country consolidates recent economic gains.
Speaking during the national celebrations to mark International Workers’ Day in Njombe, the Head of State stressed that employment should not be viewed solely through the prism of pay. It is also about dignity, responsibility and service to the nation.
She told workers that the government recognises their contribution and remains committed to improving their welfare.
However, she cautioned that any further salary adjustments must align with the country’s fiscal capacity and broader economic priorities.
“Work is not only about money,” she said in essence.
“It is about dignity and responsibility. Continue to work hard as we prepare the ground for further improvements.”
Her remarks signal a measured approach. They come barely a year after a significant wage adjustment for public servants.
Past wage increase
On May 1, 2025, President Samia announced a 35.1 per cent rise in the minimum wage for public servants.
The increase lifted the minimum monthly pay from Sh370,000 to Sh500,000, effective July 2025.
The adjustment was attributed to improved economic performance.
Tanzania recorded growth of about 5.5 per cent in 2024, which created fiscal space for the Government to enhance workers’ pay.
The move marked the first major salary increase since 2022 and was widely seen as a response to sustained calls by labour unions for better remuneration.
Current public service salary structures reflect this shift.
The minimum government salary now stands at Sh500,000, with higher grades earning significantly more depending on qualifications and responsibilities.
In addition, the Government has implemented complementary measures.
These include allowances and other benefits aimed at easing the cost of living and improving working conditions.
A cautious fiscal stance
Despite these gains, President Samia indicated that further increases cannot be immediate. The Government must balance wage growth with sustainability.
Tanzania’s wage bill has expanded steadily in recent years. Public expenditure on salaries has risen alongside efforts to maintain fiscal discipline and fund development projects.
This context explains the President’s emphasis on productivity and responsibility. She underscored that improved remuneration must be matched by efficiency and accountability in public service.
Message to workers
The President’s message was clear and firm. Workers should continue to serve with integrity.
They should also recognise their role in national development.
She highlighted that the government is committed to creating better working environments.
This includes strengthening social protection systems, improving occupational safety and expanding opportunities for skills development.
At the same time, she called for a shared sense of duty among employees, employers and the State. Economic progress, she said, depends on collective effort.
Broader labour agenda
This year’s May Day theme focused on decent work as a pillar of sustainable development, aligned with Tanzania’s long-term development vision.
The government has also moved to reform wage structures in the private sector.
A new wage order took effect in January 2026, revising minimum pay across multiple sectors.
These reforms aim to harmonise labour standards and ensure fair compensation across the economy.
