Samia Suluhu Hassan is the first female president of Tanzania and a transformative figure in East African politics. Born on January 27, 1960, in Zanzibar, a semi-autonomous region of Tanzania, Samia’s journey to leadership is rooted in her dedication to public service and her resilience as a woman navigating the traditionally male-dominated political landscape of East Africa.

Samia began her career in government service with a role in the Ministry of Planning and Development in Zanzibar, after which she advanced her education in Tanzania and the United Kingdom, focusing on public administration. She earned a postgraduate degree in economics from the University of Manchester, which prepared her for increasingly significant roles in Tanzanian politics. She entered the Zanzibar House of Representatives in 2000, marking her formal entry into politics and her first step toward national influence. Her work in Zanzibar was distinguished by her commitment to development and policies aimed at improving public welfare, particularly in health and education sectors.

Her career gained national attention when she served as Minister of State for Union Affairs from 2010 to 2015 under President Jakaya Kikwete. Her leadership on union matters, bridging the often-complex relationship between the mainland and Zanzibar, earned her respect across the nation. In 2015, she was selected as the running mate for John Magufuli and became Tanzania’s first female vice president. During her time as vice president, she was lauded for her calm demeanor and skillful diplomacy, particularly as she managed the sometimes controversial policies enacted under Magufuli’s administration.

On March 19, 2021, following the sudden death of President Magufuli, Samia Suluhu Hassan was sworn in as the sixth president of Tanzania, making history as the first woman to hold the office. Her presidency has marked a shift in Tanzanian politics, with a renewed focus on openness, international cooperation, and COVID-19 management—a stark contrast to the previous administration’s controversial pandemic policies. Samia has since championed efforts to rebuild Tanzania’s economy, bolster healthcare, and foster democratic principles.

Her tenure has also strengthened Tanzania’s international relations, opening doors to increased foreign investment and diplomatic engagement. Samia’s commitment to women’s empowerment, economic reform, and regional stability has positioned her as a leading voice for progressive change in East Africa and a role model for women across the continent. Her balanced approach, humility, and emphasis on national unity continue to resonate with Tanzanians and the international community alike, marking her leadership as a significant chapter in the history of Tanzania.