The Ministries of Finance and Planning, Investment, Industry, and Trade have been abolished by President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania, who has formed three new dockets in their place.
The President established the Ministry of Finance, the Office of the President, the Planning and Investment Ministry, and the Ministry of Industry and Trade in a mini-Cabinet reshuffle announced Wednesday evening.
Without the planning mandate, Finance Minister Mwigulu Nchemba continues to perform his duties. Ashatu Kijaji will continue to serve as the Minister of Industry and Trade, while Kitila Mkumbo will lead the Planning and Investment docket in the President’s office.
The action is perceived as an effort to simplify investment falling under the purview of the President’s Office.
Lawrence Mafuru, the deputy permanent secretary for finance, will now serve as the National Planning Commission’s executive secretary.
Elijah Mwandumbya, a former Policy Analysis commissioner in the Finance ministry, will take his place and take over leadership of the Economic Management division.
The modifications were made public as President Samia prepared to go on a three-day trip to Malawi, from July 5 to 7; there, she attended the 59th anniversary celebration of the nation’s independence on Thursday in Lilongwe.
