The Vice President of Tanzania, Dr. Philip Isdor Mpango, has officially launched a housing Scheme for public servants aimed at improving their living conditions. The event took place on December 11, 2024, at Njedengwa in Dodoma.
During the launch, Dr. Mpango urged local government authorities to allocate land for building houses close to workplaces to make it easier for public servants to perform their duties. He emphasized the importance of constructing high-quality houses that meet proper standards to ensure durability and avoid additional costs for buyers.
“To make this program successful, the process of applying for and allocating houses must be fair, transparent, and based on realistic assessments. Special attention should be given to junior and mid-level employees,” Dr. Mpango said.
He also encouraged buyers to maintain the houses properly, including planting trees and flowers to enhance the environment. “Good maintenance of these homes includes keeping the surrounding areas clean and beautiful. Involve experts in landscaping to make the homes attractive,” he added.
Dr. Mpango further directed Watumishi Housing Investments (WHI) to prioritize selling houses to staff at the nearby Benjamin Mkapa Hospital due to a shortage of housing for doctors and nurses. He also called on WHI to include essential facilities like playgrounds, parks, schools, and health services in their housing projects.
Additionally, he challenged WHI and the President’s Office for Public Service Management to explore alternative funding sources, such as bonds, insurance companies, development partners, and individual investors, to expand the project.
Minister George Simbachawene Highlights WHI’s Role
George Simbachawene, Minister of State for Public Service Management, explained that WHI was established in 2014 under Tanzanian company laws to address housing challenges for public servants. WHI partners with pension funds, including PSSSF and NSSF, to build affordable houses across the country.
The WHI Real Estate Investment Trust Fund (WHI-REIT) has already constructed over 1,000 houses in 18 regions. These houses are designed to enable public servants to buy homes using flexible payment plans based on their salaries.
WHI CEO Dr. Fred Msemwa’s Remarks
WHI CEO Dr. Fred Msemwa highlighted that the organization is committed to providing quality housing for public servants while maintaining affordability. He emphasized that housing is not just a product but an essential service that improves lives.
“We ensure houses meet modern standards, are built efficiently, and are sold at reasonable prices. This helps public servants access decent housing while also investing in their future,” Dr. Msemwa said.
He also assured that WHI has strengthened its construction processes to ensure timely delivery and cost control, making it easier for public servants to own homes without delays.
Dodoma Regional Commissioner’s Input
The Dodoma Regional Commissioner, Rosemary Senyamule, praised the housing project as a sign of the government’s commitment to improving the lives of public servants. She also noted that tree planting in residential areas is part of efforts to make Dodoma a green city.
“These homes are not just buildings; they represent the value we place on our public servants. Alongside this, we’re working on greening the city to create a better environment for families,” she said.
Tree planting initiatives in schools, hospitals, roads, and housing areas aim to reduce climate change effects, improve air quality, and beautify the city.