Samia tells Dodoma leaders to get rid of red tape
Vice President Samia Suluhu Hassan yesterday warned Dodoma regional authorities against their red tape that risks stalling the development of six satellite cities planned in the designated capital.
The VP issued the caution here during her meeting with regional leaders after receiving a report from the government formed task force to coordinate the relocation of the administrative capital from Dar es Salaam to the central region. She challenged the leaders to get prepared and organised to receive investors seeking to undertake investment projects in the region.
“As we receive potential investors, let us be vigilant of bogus investors who may end up frustrating the government plans to transform Dodoma into a modern city,” Ms Samia charged, instructing regional leaders to ensure that they protect and preserve protected areas against environmental degradation following the envisaged development.
Ms Samia was on the other hand impressed by efforts by the regional authorities to wisely plan for the land use, setting up industries and social amenities. “You should also allocate special areas to accommodate small-scale businesses and enable them to explore the business opportunities that will be created under the capital relocation.
The areas for small-scale traders should have all the required amenities to provide them with conducive environment for efficient operations,” Ms Suluhu emphasised during the meeting.
She further challenged the regional authorities to involve the business community before deciding on their business areas to avert complaints that may come up in the future.
Speaking at the meeting, Dodoma Regional Commissioner Jordan Rugimbana briefed the VP on improvements made on social amenities to allow the region to host the seat of the government.
“As we speak, we have already allocated land for residential areas, government offices and embassies as well as industries and other uses,” he explained.
He assured that his office was committed to work closely with the government institutions, international organisations and diplomatic missions in the country to ensure the allocated land is developed as planned.
Mr Rugimbana proposed for the extension of the natural gas pipeline to Dodoma from Dar es Salaam, arguing that implementation of the six satellite cities and other investments in Dodoma will require adequate and reliable power supply.