Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Appoints Ridhiwani Kikwete as Minister of Public Service

Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan has appointed Ridhiwani Jakaya Kikwete, the son of former President Jakaya Kikwete, as the new Minister in the President’s Office responsible for Public Service Management and Good Governance.

The appointment was announced in Dodoma during a major cabinet reshuffle that brought in younger political figures and replaced several long-serving ministers.

Ridhiwani, a lawyer and Member of Parliament for Chalinze under the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), steps into a portfolio central to shaping public sector efficiency, civil service reforms and governance accountability.

His elevation from a previous deputy-level role marks a significant rise within the administration.

The reshuffle—one of President Samia’s most sweeping since taking office—was described by the presidency as part of an effort to build a “leaner, younger and more responsive government.” Analysts note that the new cabinet features a blend of technocrats and politically trusted figures, including individuals with strong party lineage.

Ridhiwani’s appointment has generated public attention largely because of his family background. His father, Jakaya Kikwete, served as Tanzania’s president from 2005 to 2015 and remains an influential figure within CCM.

While some critics see the move as political consolidation by the ruling party, government officials argue that the choice reflects competence and the need for energetic leadership in a portfolio tied to key reform agendas.

President Samia also swore in several new ministers and deputies, making adjustments to the finance, agriculture, energy, and internal affairs ministries, while retaining others in strategic sectors such as foreign affairs and mining.

The overall reshuffle signals the administration’s push to accelerate service delivery, strengthen institutions and prepare for upcoming policy priorities.

Ridhiwani is expected to drive reforms aimed at improving the effectiveness and accountability of the public service—a task viewed as central to Tanzania’s long-term governance goals. His office has yet to issue a detailed roadmap, but officials say directives will be released in the coming days.

The new cabinet has already begun work, with President Samia urging the appointees to focus on transparency, responsiveness and measurable results as Tanzania navigates economic reforms and ongoing public sector modernization.