“The overriding issue to me has been: Let’s have political policies that will ensure equal opportunity for every Tanzanian; no discrimination against anyone because of his tribe, race, religion, political affiliation, or which part of the country he or she comes from. It has worked well in the past. We think it’s the best policy for us to ensure that we continue that process.

We have to ensure that we continue to entrench democracy. Economic growth thrives best where there is good governance. If there is democracy, if there is rule of law, if there is respect for human rights, respect for basic freedoms –– freedoms of expression, freedom of association, freedom of religion –– things will always be good, because when we are doing that vibrantly, we have a very vibrant place.”

President Jakaya M. Kikwete of Tanzania speaking at the Washington D.C.-based Center for Strategic and International Studies in May 2012.