DAR ES SALAAM, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan on Monday announced a new 27-member cabinet, retaining several key figures while introducing new faces to strategic portfolios.

In a televised address from Chamwino State House in the capital Dodoma, Hassan confirmed that Mahmoud Thabit Kombo will continue serving as Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation.

Khamis Mussa Omar has been appointed as the new minister for finance, succeeding Mwigulu Nchemba, who recently assumed the position of Prime Minister.

The president also appointed Rhimo Simeon Nyansaho as minister for defense and national service, replacing Stergomena Lawrence, who retired from public service.

As part of the restructuring, Hassan announced the creation of a new ministry dedicated to youth development, underscoring the government's focus on empowering young people.

The newly appointed ministers are scheduled to be sworn in on Tuesday at Chamwino State House. ■