Tanzania President Samia Suluhu Acquires State-of-the-Art Sh10.9B Gulfstream G700 Presidential Jet

Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan has officially unveiled the country’s new presidential jet, a Gulfstream G700, marking a significant upgrade to the nation’s VIP fleet.

The new aircraft, which replaces the aging Gulfstream G550 purchased 23 years ago, was used for the first time yesterday as President Suluhu flew from Dar es Salaam to Dodoma.

The acquisition of the Gulfstream G700 comes after Tanzania’s Parliament directed the government last year to modernize its VIP fleet, citing the need for more efficient and reliable aircraft for presidential and high-level government travel.

Cost and Features of the Gulfstream G700

The Gulfstream G700 is one of the most advanced business jets in the world, with a price tag of approximately $78 million (approx 10.9 billion Kenyan shillings).

The jet is powered by cutting-edge Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 engines, offering a remarkable range of up to 7,500 nautical miles (13,890 kilometers). This allows non-stop flights to virtually any global destination, reducing travel time and minimizing jet lag for passengers.

The G700 is equipped with state-of-the-art amenities, including a spacious cabin that can accommodate up to 19 passengers, advanced noise reduction technology, and customizable interiors.

It also features the latest in-flight entertainment systems, high-speed internet connectivity, and a low cabin altitude, ensuring maximum comfort for long-haul flights.

Comparison with Regional Leaders’ Jets

The acquisition places Tanzania among the few African nations with a modern presidential jet. Here’s how the G700 compares to aircraft used by other regional leaders:

– Kenya: President William Ruto uses a Gulfstream G550, a slightly older model with a range of 6,750 nautical miles. The G550, purchased in 2014, cost approximately $53 million (7.4 billion Kenyan shillings).

– Uganda: President Yoweri Museveni’s fleet includes a Gulfstream G550 and a Bombardier Global Express, both of which are less advanced than the G700.

– South Africa: The South African government owns a Boeing Business Jet (BBJ), a modified version of the Boeing 737, which is larger but less efficient for shorter trips compared to the G700.

Globally, the Gulfstream G700 is favored by prominent figures such as Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who own similar models for their private use.

Reducing Reliance on Commercial Flights

Aviation experts have praised the purchase, noting that the G700 will reduce Tanzania’s reliance on Air Tanzania planes for presidential trips. This move is expected to enhance the efficiency and security of presidential travel while freeing up commercial aircraft for routine operations.

Public Reaction

While the acquisition has been hailed as a step toward modernizing Tanzania’s aviation capabilities, it has also sparked debate over the cost. Critics argue that the funds could have been allocated to pressing social and economic needs, such as healthcare and education. However, supporters contend that the investment is justified, given the need for reliable and secure transportation for the head of state.

President Suluhu’s administration has emphasized that the new jet will also be used for diplomatic missions, boosting Tanzania’s presence on the global stage.

As Tanzania continues to position itself as a key player in East Africa, the Gulfstream G700 symbolizes the nation’s commitment to progress and modernization.

(Exchange rate used: 1 USD = 140 Kenyan Shillings)