Gwajimanization: Bishop Gwajima Turns Tanzanian President’s Rebuke Into a National Call Against State Inaction on Abductions
Ujasusi Blog | East Africa Political Risk Desk | 1 June 2025
Estimated Read Time: 11 minutes
Introduction: From Political Label to Moral Narrative
On 30 May 2025, President Samia Suluhu Hassan introduced a new political phrase into Tanzania’s national discourse: “Gwajimanization.” The term, coined during a speech in Dodoma, was intended to describe what she viewed as disruptive conduct within the ranks of her own party. But within 24 hours, the man implicitly referenced—Bishop Josephat Gwajima—had redefined the word entirely.
Rather than refute the term, Gwajima embraced it and gave it new meaning: a symbol of patriotic responsibility and moral courage, especially in confronting the growing crisis of abductions in Tanzania.
His response resonated not just with his followers but with many Tanzanians who have grown increasingly frustrated with government silence and lack of accountability surrounding politically motivated violence.