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Showing posts from April, 2026

Tanzania, Belarus Strengthen Ties as Samia Invites Investors

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Dar es Salaam, April 28, 2026 President Samia Suluhu Hassan has reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Belarus, while inviting investors and business leaders from the European nation to explore opportunities in key sectors including agriculture, fisheries, education, and health. The message was delivered on her behalf by Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba during a meeting with Belarus Foreign Affairs Minister Maxim Ryzhenkov at the Prime Minister’s Office in Magogoni, Dar es Salaam. During the meeting, Dr. Nchemba also received an official invitation for President Samia to undertake a working visit to Belarus, extended by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, signaling growing diplomatic engagement between the two countries. The Prime Minister highlighted Tanzania’s improved investment and business climate, noting its strategic geographical position as a gateway to both East and Southern Africa. He said the country’s Development Vision 2050 aims to ...

Chande calls for full accountability in post-election violence probe*

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The chairperson of Tanzania’s commission of inquiry into violence linked to the 2025 General Election said on Tuesday that accountability for the unrest should be pursued fairly and in accordance with the law. Speaking in Dar es Salaam, Mohamed Othman Chande said there was broad agreement that those responsible for the violence should be held accountable, but warned against unfair prosecutions or the use of scapegoats. “We all agree that there must be accountability. No one has said accountability should be avoided or postponed,” Justice Othman said. “But accountability must be fair. Senior national leaders we consulted advised that those who deserve to be held accountable should face justice according to the law, while those who do not deserve blame should not be punished.” Othman said some contributors to the inquiry had gone further by cautioning against sacrificing innocent individuals during the process of assigning responsibility. “We received that advice and it was important for...

Tanzania Inquiry confirms rioters were paid to fuel post-election violence

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 A member of Tanzania’s commission of inquiry into violence linked to the October 2025 general election said on Tuesday that some witnesses told investigators they had been promised money to participate in the unrest. Speaking to editors and journalists in Dar es Salaam, Said Mwema, retired Inspector General of Police, said the commission gathered testimonies from tens of thousands of people, including individuals who admitted involvement in the violence. “Among the more than 63,000 people we met face-to-face, as well as those who submitted written statements and messages, some explained how they were recruited to participate in these acts,” Mr Mwema said. He said the witnesses included motorcycle taxi riders, food vendors and members of different community groups who acknowledged taking part in the events in one way or another. Mwema also said the commission had found evidence suggesting that the violence was organised and financed. “Evidence, including incidents, images and other...

TARURA CHIEF INSPECTS AFCON ROAD PROJECTS IN ARUSHA, SETS MAY 2027 DEADLINE

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  Arusha The Chief Executive Officer of the TARURA, Eng. Victor Seff, has inspected the ongoing construction of access roads to the stadium designated to host Africa Cup of Nations matches in Arusha. Eng. Seff said the visit aimed to assess progress on the 21.4-kilometre road project, where construction has already commenced on the Essuri section. He noted that the government is committed to ensuring the infrastructure is completed on time, adding that areas yet to begin construction are awaiting the completion of compensation procedures for affected residents. He emphasized continued engagement with communities to secure cooperation and avoid delays. “The government’s goal is to ensure these roads are completed by May 2027 so they are ready ahead of AFCON,” he said. The project is being implemented under a Design and Build model, often used for time-sensitive projects, with all procurement processes already finalized. Eng. Seff said TARURA will maintain close supervision to ensure...

SUA ADVANCES MODERN FARMING TRAINING WITH DRONE TECHNOLOGY

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  Morogoro The College of Agriculture at Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) has intensified the use of drone technology to enhance the teaching of modern agriculture, aiming to equip students with practical, market-relevant skills. The College Principal, Nyambilila Amuri, said the initiative is being implemented in collaboration with Agrimazao Company. He noted that the technology, introduced last year, is designed to boost productivity, improve efficiency, and optimize the use of agricultural inputs. Dr. Amuri made the remarks during practical training sessions for undergraduate agriculture students at the university, where drones are being used to demonstrate precision farming techniques. Meanwhile, the Vice Chancellor of SUA, Rafael Chibunda, said the move is part of a broader strategy to modernize the curriculum and prepare graduates who meet the evolving demands of the job market. He revealed that the university has already acquired three drones, with plans to purchase mo...

Sh2.46 Trillion Allocated to Energy Development as Tanzania Expands Power Capacity Plans

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The Parliament of the United Republic of Tanzania has approved a budget of Sh2.53 trillion for the Ministry of Energy for the 2026/2027 financial year, with the bulk of the funds earmarked for development projects. Out of the approved amount, Sh2.46 trillion—equivalent to 97.5 percent of the total budget—has been allocated to development expenditure, while 2.5 percent will cater for recurrent spending. Presenting the ministry’s revenue and expenditure estimates, Energy Minister Deogratius Ndejembi told Parliament that the ministry will continue to implement the vision of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, in line with the ruling party manifesto and the national Development Vision 2050. He said the ministry remains committed to achieving its target of generating 8,000 megawatts of electricity by 2030, noting that preparations are already in place to meet the goal. Looking further ahead, the country aims to produce up to 70,000 megawatts by 2050. “To achieve these targets, we will utilize al...

From Beauty Queen to Tech Advocate: Nancy Sumari Drives Change in Tanzania’s Classrooms

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 DAR ES SALAAM: Former Miss Tanzania and Miss World Africa, Nancy Sumari, is redefining her public role by shifting from the pageant stage to championing education innovation and inclusive technology in Tanzania. In an interview with the Daily News, Sumari said her experience in global beauty pageants did not alter her life’s purpose but instead strengthened her long-standing passion for teaching, children, and sustainable social impact. “My purpose was already clear from a young age,” she said, recalling her early ambition to become a teacher and work closely with children. That vision has since taken shape through her flagship innovation, the Kalimani App, a digital learning platform designed to support deaf and hard-of-hearing pupils in classrooms. The application recently earned international recognition after winning the Zero Project 2026 Innovation Award. The Kalimani App features animated sign language tools and curriculum-based content aimed at improving access to education...

GOVERNMENT STRENGTHENS OVERSIGHT OF CSR IMPLEMENTATION IN THE MINING SECTOR

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📍Dodoma The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the supervision of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) implementation in the mining sector following the establishment of a dedicated legal framework through the 2023 CSR Regulations and its amendments in 2025 aimed at enhancing transparency, accountability and stakeholder collaboration. Opening a technical working session involving experts from the Ministry of Minerals, the Mining Commission and the Prime Minister’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (PMO-RALG) held in Dodoma today, Mining Commission Commissioner, Dr Theresia Numbi, said the regulations were specifically introduced to address recurring disputes between local government authorities and mineral rights holders regarding the execution of CSR projects. Dr Numbi noted that although notable progress has been achieved between 2018 and 2025, several challenges continue to affect effective implementation of the regulations. These include...

Kenya Implements Temporary Fuel Tax Cut to Cushion Economy

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  NAIROBI — The government of Kenya, under President William Ruto, has enacted a temporary reduction in Value Added Tax (VAT) on petroleum products from 16 percent to 8 percent, in a move aimed at stabilizing the economy and easing inflationary pressures. The measure, approved by Parliament on April 16, 2026, is set to run for three months and is part of a broader fiscal response to rising global oil prices that have significantly increased the cost of living. Deputy Majority Leader Owen Baya attributed the surge in fuel prices to external shocks, particularly geopolitical tensions in the Middle East that continue to disrupt global energy supply chains. Economically, the VAT reduction is expected to lower pump prices, thereby reducing production and transportation costs across key sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, and logistics. This could help moderate inflation, which has been partly driven by high energy costs. However, the tax cut may also lead to a short-term decline...

IEA Warns of Jet Fuel Shortage in Europe Amid Global Energy Disruptions

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  PARIS — The Executive Director of the International Energy Agency, Fatih Birol, has warned that Europe could face a critical shortage of jet fuel, with reserves potentially lasting only about six weeks if supply disruptions persist. Speaking in an interview, Birol attributed the situation to ongoing military tensions in the Middle East and disruptions to oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy corridor. He cautioned that the supply constraints could force airlines to suspend some flights in the near term unless urgent measures are taken to restore energy flows. From an economic perspective, the warning signals heightened risks to global energy markets, with the potential for significant supply-side shocks. Reduced fuel availability is likely to drive up prices of oil, gas, and electricity, further intensifying inflationary pressures across major economies. Birol described the situation as potentially one of the most severe energy crises in recent history, ...

Mwanza Regional Commissioner Urges Public to Protect Environment, Enforce Environmental Laws

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  MWANZA — The Regional Commissioner of Mwanza, Said Mtanda, has called on residents to actively participate in environmental conservation, while urging the National Environment Management Council (NEMC) and local government environmental officers to intensify regular inspections to ensure environmental cleanliness and safety. Speaking during a meeting with NEMC officials and members of the press, Mtanda emphasized the importance of strict enforcement of environmental laws to safeguard natural resources and public health. He noted that under the Environmental Management Act No. 191, the government has prohibited all activities that contribute to environmental pollution, particularly in water sources and protected areas. Mtanda further explained that Section 57 of the law forbids any individual from constructing buildings, carrying out activities, or disposing of waste within 60 meters of water sources or protected zones. The measure aims to preserve these critical resources. He sai...

Meteorological Update: TMA Forecasts Heavy Rains in Nine Regions Tomorrow

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  The Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) has issued a weather advisory forecasting heavy rainfall across nine regions of the country tomorrow, as part of its ongoing seasonal outlook. According to TMA, the anticipated rainfall will be associated with strong winds and thunderstorms in several areas, particularly within the coastal belt and parts of the highlands. The agency noted that these weather conditions are driven by prevailing atmospheric instability and moisture influx over the region. Rainfall intensity is expected to be significant in the highlighted regions, raising the likelihood of localized flooding, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Disruptions to transport and daily activities are also anticipated in areas that will experience prolonged downpours. TMA has urged the public to stay updated with official forecasts and advisories, and to take precautionary measures to reduce potential risks. Residents in vulnerable locations have been specifically advis...

Dar es Salaam to Host Pan-African Comedy Festival as Punchline Launches PICF 2026

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Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – April 15, 2026: Punchline Africa has officially announced the launch of the Punchline International Comedy Festival (PICF) 2026, a major continental comedy event set to take place in the city from May 25 to June 1, 2026. The week-long festival will bring together comedians from across Africa, featuring a series of live performances, media engagements, and cultural exchange activities. The event will culminate in a Grand Finale at the Superdome, expected to draw large audiences. PICF 2026 will showcase both English and Swahili stand-up comedy performances, highlighting the diversity and richness of Africa’s comedy scene. Beyond entertainment, organizers say the festival aims to promote mental wellness by emphasizing the importance of laughter as a tool for emotional relief and social connection, particularly at a time when many people face personal and societal challenges. Speaking at the launch, Punchline Africa Co-Founder Evans Bukuku said comedy plays a deep...

Africa Competition Bodies Meet to Tackle Trade Challenges Amid Global Economic Pressures

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  Deputy Minister for Industry and Trade, Dennis Londo, has said that the ongoing African competition authorities’ conference has brought together key stakeholders from across the continent to address challenges affecting the business sector. Londo noted that the meeting involves participants from more than 37 countries and is aimed at strengthening cooperation among competition institutions in Africa. Speaking at the conference, he emphasized that one of the main objectives is to exchange experiences and build capacity in regulating fair market competition. He stressed the importance of sharing strategies and approaches to address common challenges facing different countries, noting that globalization has made economies more interconnected. “Today’s world has become like a global village, where challenges in one country can easily affect another. This conference provides an opportunity to learn from one another and find joint solutions to issues affecting trade across Africa,” he ...

DCEA Impounds Bus Owned by MP Abood After Major Drug Seizure

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The Tanzania Drugs Control and Enforcement Authority (DCEA) has seized 101.2 kilograms of khat in Tabata Kibo, Dar es Salaam, after the drugs were discovered hidden inside a passenger bus. Speaking on April 14, 2026, DCEA Commissioner General Aretas Lyimo said the consignment had been concealed in various compartments of the bus, including within its air conditioning (AC) system, in an attempt to evade detection. The bus, a Yutong model belonging to Abood Company and registered as T 181 EMJ, was operating a route between Mombasa, Kenya and Dar es Salaam. Five suspects were arrested in connection with the incident, including the driver, Ramadhan Mohamed (52), conductor Salma Sanga (26), and three others identified as Twahilu Athuman (38), Mohamedy Mikidadi (37), and Ibrahim Mohamed (39). In a related operation in the Pwani Region, authorities seized an additional 419.09 kilograms of khat that was being transported to Dar es Salaam. Lyimo explained that, under the law, those found in pos...

Tanzania Positions Itself as a Regional Transport and Economic Hub

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By Joseph Mahumi, Washington D.C. Tanzania is strengthening its position as a key regional transport and economic hub in Africa, driven by strategic investments in transport corridors aimed at boosting trade, employment, and regional integration. This was highlighted by the Minister of Finance, Ambassador Khamis Mussa Omar, during a high-level panel discussion hosted by the World Bank on the role of transport corridors in accelerating Africa’s economic growth. The session took place on the sidelines of the 2026 IMF/WBG Spring Meetings in Washington, D.C.. Speaking at the forum, Ambassador Omar emphasized Tanzania’s proactive approach in connecting regional economies through modern infrastructure, including the historic TAZARA Railway, established in the 1970s as one of the earliest cross-border transport corridors linking Tanzania and Zambia. He noted that while the corridor has traditionally served as a transport route, the government is now advancing efforts to transform it into a fu...

Taifa Gas, Amber Energy Strike Strategic Deal to Acquire Orca’s Tanzania Gas Assets

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  DAR ES SALAAM — Taifa Gas Tanzania Limited, owned by businessman Rostam Azizi, in partnership with Amber Energy Investment L.L.C-FZ, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the Tanzanian gas business of Orca Energy Group, including the strategic Songo Songo project. In a statement released on April 13, 2026, Orca confirmed the signing of a final share purchase agreement for the divestment of its subsidiary, PanAfrican Energy Corporation (PAEM), which oversees all its gas operations in Tanzania. Under the terms of the transaction, Taifa Gas will acquire a 49 percent equity stake in PAEM, while Amber Energy will take a 51 percent controlling interest, marking a significant shift in ownership to new investors. Orca said the decision to exit the Tanzanian market follows a comprehensive strategic review of its operations, citing heightened business risks, including ongoing disputes, claims, and uncertainty over the renewal of the Songo Songo license and production-sharing a...

Peace Is a Vital Resource for National Development, Must Be Protected – Mangu

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  Former Inspector General of Police in Tanzania, Ernest Mangu, has called on citizens to avoid actions that could disrupt peace and instead promote national unity, emphasizing that peace is a critical resource for the country’s development. Speaking in a special interview published by the Uhuru newspaper, Mangu warned that any signs of incitement or attempts to destabilize the nation should be condemned early, noting that the cost of losing peace is high and affects all sectors of the economy and social well-being. “We all have a responsibility to safeguard our peace. History shows that once peace is disrupted, the consequences are widespread, impacting the economy, investment, and people’s livelihoods,” he said. Mangu noted that Tanzania has built a strong reputation as a peaceful and stable country over the years, a factor that has helped attract investment and support social and economic activities. He stressed that these achievements must be protected and sustained through acc...

EAST AFRICAN STUDY EXPOSES FUNDING CRISIS FOR YOUNG FEMINISTS

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 EAST AFRICAN STUDY EXPOSES FUNDING CRISIS FOR YOUNG FEMINISTS A new study launched during the Feminist Conversation Space has revealed significant funding challenges facing girls and young feminist organizations across East Africa, highlighting structural barriers that continue to limit their impact despite growing influence. Speaking at the event, representatives from Msichana Initiative noted that while young feminists have been at the forefront of driving change—championing issues such as gender-based violence, child marriage, sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR), and economic justice—their access to sustainable funding remains critically low. The study found that lack of reliable financial support is the leading challenge, with many organizations struggling to pay staff, sustain programs, or maintain basic operations. According to the findings, funding available to these organizations is often short-term, inconsistent, and insufficient, sometimes lasting only a few mon...

PM Mwigulu Nchemba: Government Won’t Bow to Pressure from Self-Interested Opponents

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 Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba has stated that it is normal for some individuals to oppose government decisions, particularly when those decisions affect their personal interests—especially for those who previously benefited through unlawful means. Speaking in Dodoma after inspecting the construction progress of the 76-kilometer Ntyuka–Mvumi–Kikombo tarmac road, as well as the 5-kilometer Chololo–Mapinduzi (TPDF Headquarters) road, the Prime Minister emphasized that the government will not be swayed by criticism from a small group opposing reforms that benefit the nation. He explained that individuals affected by such decisions often organize and fund others to attack the government and its leaders through social media and other public platforms. “Citizens should not be intimidated by these individuals, because they are being sponsored. For their contracts to continue, they must keep criticizing us,” he stressed. Dr. Nchemba noted that this trend is not new, recalling that similar...

Police Dismiss Reports of Officer’s Alleged Abduction in Pwani Region

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  The Tanzania Police Force in the Pwani Region has dismissed circulating social media reports claiming that Assistant Inspector of Police, Nassoro Mana, was abducted after raising concerns before the Prime Minister, Mwigulu Lameck Nchemba. In an official statement issued on Friday, April 10, 2026, the Pwani Regional Police Commander, Assistant Commissioner of Police Salim Morcase, clarified that the reports are false and misleading. He noted that the claims initially surfaced through a broadcast allegedly aired by Kyela FM, which the police say lacks factual basis. According to Morcase, the officer in question is safe, currently on duty, and continuing with his official responsibilities. He explained that the officer had been in Tanga since February 15, 2026, attending military-related disciplinary proceedings, which have since been concluded and forwarded to the relevant authorities for determination. The police further stated that the officer’s family is fully aware of his situa...

DIT Makes History with International ISO Certification

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  DAR ES SALAAM, April 10, 2026 — The Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology (DIT) has made history by becoming the first institution in Tanzania to be awarded the ISO 21001:2018 certification, an international standard for educational organization management systems. The milestone is expected to significantly enhance the quality of technical and technological education in the country. Speaking at the certificate awarding ceremony in Dar es Salaam on behalf of the Minister for Education, Science and Technology, Deputy Permanent Secretary Hussein Mohamed described the achievement as a major step in ongoing education sector reforms aimed at strengthening skills development, innovation, and productivity for national growth. He noted that DIT’s success aligns with the vision of the Sixth Phase Government under President Samia Suluhu Hassan to build an education system that produces competent professionals capable of competing in both local and global job markets. “The government has con...

Heavy Rainfall Alert Issued for Four Consecutive Days

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Authorities have issued a warning of heavy rainfall expected to persist for four consecutive days, urging the public to take necessary precautions to ensure safety and minimize potential damage. The alert highlights the likelihood of intense downpours in several areas, which may lead to flooding, disruption of transport services, and damage to infrastructure and property. Residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas have been advised to remain vigilant, avoid crossing flooded rivers and roads, and follow guidance from local authorities and emergency services. The warning also calls on stakeholders, including local government leaders and disaster response agencies, to be on high alert and prepared to respond to any emergencies that may arise during the period. Citizens are further encouraged to stay updated through official communication channels for timely information and advisories as the situation develops.