Drama As Tanzanian MPs Take English Proficiency Tests
A Tanzanian Member of Parliament has been forced to resign from foreign parliamentary seats after failing to pass a mandated English-language proficiency test.
Bakari Shingo, MP for the Ukonga constituency, was unable to progress with his bid for delegate positions in important international bodies due to a language evaluation completed during the selection process.
The elections were held to fill Tanzania’s representation positions in three significant international forums, which remained vacant after the 12th Parliament’s mandate expired, necessitating new appointments.
The affected positions include seats in the Pan-African Parliament, the Inter-Parliamentary Union, and the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region Parliamentary Forum, all of which require English proficiency.
Shingo did not meet the English proficiency criteria, which are still required for anyone intending to participate in these major international forums.
#VIDEO Mbunge wa Jimbo la Ukonga (ACT) Bakari Shingo leo Bungeni Dodoma amejikuta akipata kigugumizi wakati wa kujinadi kwa kutumia lugha ya Kingereza akiomba kura za Wabunge ili akaiwakilishe Nchi ya Tanzania katika Jukwaa la Maziwa Makuu akiwakilisha upande wa walio wachache… pic.twitter.com/8fEdFRGF2T
— millardayo (@millardayo) February 5, 2026
The trend has spurred discussions among Tanzanian legislators regarding language preparation, since they hope to represent the country on continental and global parliamentary stages where English dominates proceedings.
According to the most recent EF English Proficiency Index (EF EPI) 2025 study, Tanzania ranks 77th out of 116 nations, placing it in the “Low Proficiency” bracket overall.
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Tanzania ranks 11th in Africa, with an EF EPI score of 479, indicating that the population’s English language abilities may be improved significantly.
Dar es Salaam leads the country with the highest proficiency score of 508, followed by Arusha with 478, highlighting regional variations in English language competence across Tanzania.
English proficiency remains essential in the Pan-African Parliament because it serves as a working language, facilitating debate on regional integration, policy formulation, and oversight among diverse representatives.
The Inter-Parliamentary Union relies on English alongside French for its e-bulletins, publications, and databases, ensuring members can access vital information on parliamentary trends and international best practices.
Drama As Tanzanian MPs Take English Proficiency Tests
