President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan Embraces Private Sector Talent
On February 28th, 2023, President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan presided over the swearing-in of several officials at the Ikulu grounds in Chamwino, Dodoma. During her speech, she addressed the concerns raised about her decision to recruit highly intelligent individuals from the private sector into the government.
According to her speech, she acknowledged that there have been many questions raised on social media and in newspapers regarding this decision. However, President Hassan emphasized that all Tanzanians possess intelligence and capability, and they can work anywhere.
President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan further explained that she needs highly intelligent individuals to help the government, and she will continue to recruit them from the private sector. She added that those individuals who are outside the government tend to criticize it without knowing the challenges of being in government.
The public sector and private sector are two different worlds, and each has its own unique strengths and challenges. However, there are some significant advantages to having people with private sector experience join the government, and this trend has been increasing in recent years. In this article, we will explore some of the benefits of having private sector experience in government.
Firstly, people with private sector experience bring a different perspective to the table. They are used to operating in a highly competitive environment where success is measured by the bottom line. This mindset can be invaluable in government, where there is often a lack of urgency and accountability. People with private sector experience are often better equipped to identify inefficiencies and find ways to streamline processes to achieve results more efficiently.
Secondly, private sector experience can help government organizations become more innovative. The private sector is known for its willingness to take risks and try new things. Government organizations, on the other hand, can be risk-averse and slow to embrace change. Bringing in people with private sector experience can help shake things up and introduce new ideas that can lead to positive change and progress.
Thirdly, people with private sector experience can bring valuable skills and expertise to the government. For example, people with backgrounds in finance or accounting can help improve government budgeting and financial management. People with experience in marketing or public relations can help government organizations better communicate with the public and improve their image. People with technology experience can help government organizations adopt new technologies and systems to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
Fourthly, private sector experience can help bridge the gap between government and the private sector. There is often a disconnect between these two worlds, and bringing in people with private sector experience can help government organizations better understand the needs and challenges of the private sector. This can lead to better collaboration and partnerships between government and the private sector, which can ultimately benefit both.
Finally, having people with private sector experience in government can help attract more talent to the public sector. Many talented individuals are drawn to the private sector because of the potential for higher salaries and more opportunities for advancement. However, if they see that the government is open to hiring people with private sector experience and that there are opportunities for growth and development, they may be more inclined to consider a career in the public sector.
Some notable private sector titans who have made an impact in government include Nehemia Mchechu formerly the Director General of the National Housing Corporation (NHC) and now the Registra at the Ministry of Finance, Lawrence Mafuru the Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Finance. Dr. Blandina Kilama the Personal Assistant and Economic Advisor to the President
Current notable transfers from the private sector to government include Ephraim Mafuru who was the Head of Corporate Affairs for Kilombero Sugar and is now the Managing Director of the Arusha International Conference Centre (AICC), Salum Awadh the CEO of SSG who is now the Chairman of The Cereals and Other Products Board of Tanzania, Hamad Abdallah who was the Managing Director of Gimcoafrica and is now the Director General of the NHC and many others.
In conclusion, there are many advantages to having people with private sector experience join the government. They bring a different perspective, can help spur innovation, bring valuable skills and expertise, bridge the gap between government and the private sector, and help attract more talent to the public sector. As the world becomes more complex and interconnected, it is increasingly important for government organizations to be open to new ideas and approaches, and people with private sector experience can be instrumental in achieving this.
