Dodoma, Tanzania’s newly designated capital city, is experiencing a significant transformation as the country’s administrative center. Following a public referendum held 50 years ago, Dodoma was chosen to replace the coastal city of Dar es Salaam as the capital. Despite initial skepticism and a slow relocation process, the recent inauguration of the new presidential offices in Dodoma signifies a significant milestone in the transition. Ambrose Kessy, a public administration expert, sheds light on the background, reasons, and challenges associated with Dodoma’s rise as the new capital.
The decision to relocate Tanzania’s capital from Dar es Salaam to Dodoma traces back to the German colonial era when Dar es Salaam was chosen as the capital of German East Africa due to its protected harbor. However, the first Tanzanian President, Julius Kambarage Nyerere, announced the planned move to Dodoma in 1973. Although Dar es Salaam continued as the nation’s principal port and commercial capital, the aim was to distribute the population, stimulate economic growth in neglected regions, enhance accessibility, and improve the efficiency of government operations.
Over the years, the relocation process faced numerous obstacles. Political, economic, and logistical factors, coupled with competing development priorities, contributed to the slow progress. However, the determination of former President John Pombe Magufuli and his successor, President Samia Suluhu Hassan, played a pivotal role in revitalizing the relocation efforts. Ultimately, on May 20, 2023, the new State House building in Chamwino, Dodoma was inaugurated, serving as the official residence of the president and marking a significant milestone in the capital city transition.
Dodoma, now comprising the districts of Dodoma and Chamwino, faces several challenges as it assumes its role as the new capital. The city must invest in essential infrastructure, including transportation systems, water supply, and housing, to accommodate government workers and residents. Despite improvements in service provision, Dodoma still lags behind Dar es Salaam in various aspects. For instance, waste management, education, healthcare, and public transport infrastructure require significant attention to meet the rising demand.
To address these challenges, the government has initiated several measures. The detailed design work for constructing 63 ring roads in Dodoma has been completed, enhancing transportation connectivity. Additionally, the city council has established commuter transport routes within the region. The government has also commenced the construction of a new international airport at Msalato, Dodoma, with the aim of enhancing connectivity and accommodating growing passenger numbers.
Efforts have also been made to improve healthcare facilities and water supply in Dodoma, although further advancements are necessary to adequately serve the growing population. Moreover, Dodoma must attract businesses and investors to create a self-sustaining economy, address social issues related to population growth, and develop a robust services sector.
Tanzania can draw valuable lessons from other African countries that have undergone capital city relocations. Nigeria’s shift from Lagos to Abuja in the 1990s provides insights into the importance of stakeholder involvement, infrastructure development, and promoting the new capital as a business hub. Proper planning, financial management, and transparency are crucial to ensure a successful transition.
Additionally, Tanzania can learn from South Africa’s approach of developing multiple cities as capitals. By continuing to invest in the development of Dar es Salaam as an economic hub, Tanzania can maximize its growth potential and promote balanced development across the country.
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