DO WE SAIL ON THE SAME BOAT OF GOOD GOVERNANCE?

We as Tanzanians should ask ourselves how the essence of good governance operates in our country. I would like to present a message following wise words spoken by US President when he delivered speech to Ghana citizens following his visit on 11th July, 2009. Actually the speech is so inspires and narrative. I believe that the speech itself entails the true focus of what is going on not only in Ghana but also in most African countries like here in our country (Tanzania) I would like to quote one party “So I believe that this moment is just as promising for Ghana and for Africa as the moment when my father came of age and new nations were being born. This is a new moment of great promise. Only this time, we've learned that it will not be giants like Nkrumah and Kenyatta who will determine Africa's future. Instead, it will be you -- the men and women in Ghana's parliament -- (applause) -- the people you represent. It will be the young people brimming with talent and energy and hope who can claim the future that so many in previous generations never realized.

Now, to realize that promise, we must first recognize the fundamental truth that you have given life to in Ghana: Development depends on good governance. (Applause.) That is the ingredient which has been missing in far too many places, for far too long. That's the change that can unlock Africa's potential. And that is a responsibility that can only be met by Africans” This is a historical speech as it tries to touch different angles on how every individual should understand his/her contribution in his/her country so as to bring economic changes and improvement of life standard. On his speech, he mentions the theme of “Good governance” as he says “Developments depends on good governance” do this theme operates accordingly in Tanzania? I don’t think, and if we are not sailing on the same boat meaning that the theme of good governance is still a problem in our country to different sectors. As we can see there is over utilization of natural resources with low earning to raise economic status of every individual. One non governmental organization called UNGO realized the severe deforestation occurs in Morogoro District while its people are in dam of poverty. As one interviewed from Mvuha Village said “There is no good government since there is narrow participation of villagers to discuss environmental issues like, though we have our local authorities”.

I agree with Obama’s Speech as he pointed out issue of good governance as a tool for development. I here put emphasis that we Tanzanians should consider the existence of good governance by having so we shall have development changes to a better stage.

Angelus Runji
runjifred@yahoo.com