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Dodoma. The push for accelerating the integration of nature-based solutions (NbS) into Tanzania’s development and investment frameworks received fresh impetus after leading organisations convened a key meeting to discuss the agenda.

The CEO Roundtable of Tanzania (CEOrt), in collaboration with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the Agricultural Growth Corridor of Tanzania (AGCOT), convened a high-level workshop in Dodoma to discuss ways to address climate change solutions in agriculture. The NbS Mainstreaming Workshop brought together leaders from agribusiness, finance, and policy institutions to explore how nature-driven approaches can help businesses respond to climate risks while unlocking new opportunities for sustainable growth.

The event was officiated by Deputy Director of Environment at the Vice President’s Office, Mr Thomas Chali, who reaffirmed the government’s commitment to scaling up nature-based solutions as a key tool in achieving Tanzania’s climate goals. “As the country advances towards its emission reduction targets, nature-based solutions present a practical, scalable way to link environmental protection with socio-economic growth,” said Mr Chali.

Participants examined how ecosystem-based approaches such as agroforestry, soil and water restoration, and circular bio-economy models can strengthen supply chains, reduce operational risks, and align with global sustainability and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards. The CEOrt is positioning the private sector as a key driver of climate adaptation and green transformation.

Its work under the NBS-RESOLVE Project–funded by the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (Norad) and implemented in partnership with IUCN–seeks to equip businesses with the tools to integrate NbS into corporate sustainability strategies, financial planning, and reporting processes. The session was facilitated by Country Co-director and Associate Partner at Auxim, and the organisation’s lead on nature-based solutions, Mr Syakaa William.

CEOrt Project Manager, Ms Hawa Urungu, said that by 2050, Tanzania aspires to rank among Africa’s top three investment destinations, anchored on green, inclusive, and competitive growth. “To get there, we must see sustainability not as a compliance exercise but as a strategic opportunity–and NbS sits right at the intersection of the climate, ESG, and investment agenda,” she said.

Adding a voice from the agricultural sector, Cluster and Partnerships Manager at AGCOT, Mr John Nakei, highlighted the sector’s readiness to scale up action. “Agriculture sits at the centre of both climate vulnerability and opportunity.

By adopting nature-based solutions, agribusinesses can restore soil health, improve water efficiency, and unlock green investment,” he said. “This approach is not just good for the environment; it’s smart economics that ensures long-term competitiveness for Tanzanian farmers and agribusinesses,” he added.

The workshop emphasised that integrating NbS can address several of Tanzania’s most pressing challenges–from soil degradation, water scarcity, and biodiversity loss to the need for climate-smart investments that deliver both financial and environmental returns. .

Dar es Salaam. With just eight days to go before Tanzania’s general election on October 29, 2025, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Election Observation Mission (SEOM) has begun preparations to assess the country’s democratic foundations, including human rights.

SEOM, which arrived in Tanzania on October 12, has deployed observers to 27 regions, though logistical challenges have prevented coverage in four regions: Mtwara, Tabora, Shinyanga, and Tanga. Speaking at the launch of the observation activities on October 21, SEOM head in Tanzania and former Speaker of Malawi’s National Assembly, Richard Msowoya, said the mission would examine citizen participation in democratic processes.

He said that the observers would assess whether Tanzanians enjoy human rights and freedoms such as freedom of assembly, expression, and association, as well as the legal frameworks governing elections. The mission will also evaluate measures to prevent corruption, bribery, bias, political violence, intimidation, and suppression of opinions.

Observers will review whether all political parties have equal access to government media and information channels. “To fulfil its mandate, SEOM will assess, among other things, whether the constitutional and legal frameworks guarantee freedom of expression, freedom of assembly, freedom of association, and human rights,” Msowoya said.

He said that the mission would also examine the electoral system, the Electoral Management Body (EMB), election laws and regulations, and the scope of civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights. Msowoya noted that SEOM will ensure electoral boundaries are drawn transparently and legally and that any changes follow legitimate, lawful reasons.

The head of the mission said SEOM has met various electoral stakeholders and will continue consultations throughout the pre-election, election, and post-election periods. Deputy Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Said Saib Mussa, said Tanzania’s elections are conducted according to democratic principles, and SADC observers have been invited to ensure a free and fair process.

“This is a way to assess ourselves internally and within SADC, of which we are members. Their main role is to observe the elections, not direct them.

They are not allowed to intervene,” Mussa said. He said that SEOM will monitor election campaigns, voter turnout and the announcement of results, before issuing a preliminary report.

Senior Officer for Politics and Diplomacy in SADC’s Secretariat, Terry Rose, said that following an official invitation from the Tanzanian government, Malawi President Prof Arthur Peter Mutharika — who also chairs SADC’s Organ on Politics, Defence and Security — established SEOM to observe Tanzania’s elections. “SEOM will engage key electoral stakeholders to gather perspectives and understand opinions on the electoral process.

The SADC Secretariat will facilitate consultations, while our observers work directly with stakeholders across the country,” Rose said .

MsoTitleFrom over 12,000 brands across the continent, SportPesa Tanzaniahas emerged as a continental champion — recognized as Africa’s Best Sports Betting Brand at the Best Brand Africa Awards.This recognition isn’t just a title; it’s proof that the brand’s commitment to trust, technology, and customer experience is setting new benchmarks for sports betting in Africa.

A journey built on vision and trust SportPesa Tanzania’s journey began with one clear mission — to redefine how fans experience sports betting in Tanzania through innovation and integrity. Out of thousands of competing brands, SportPesa’s customer-first approach distinguished it as the ultimate leader.

The Best Brands Africa Awards evaluation — combining market data and consumer sentiment — validated SportPesa’s influence beyond borders, reshaping how Africa engages with sport, betting, and entertainment. Customer trust at the core In an industry where credibility is king, SportPesa Tanzania has made unprecedented investments in secure betting systems, fast payment options, and data protection protocols to safeguard every user.

Players can bet confidently, knowing their funds and personal data are protected by top-tier encryption and compliant standards. “This win is proof that with a clear vision, consistency, and dedication, we truly make it count,” said Jason Ndambala, head of PR at SportPesa Tanzania.

That trust has transformed SportPesa into a household name — synonymous with reliability, integrity, and fair play. Innovation that keeps fans ahead SportPesa’s success lies in its relentless drive to innovate.

From live betting and mobile-first platforms to a growing portfolio of casino games in Tanzania, the brand is redefining what a modern, interactive betting experience feels like. Continuous updates, smarter tools, and improved personalization keep SportPesa ahead of trends — giving users a truly world-class experience designed for both excitement and safety.

A win that reflects passion and consistency This award is a celebration of SportPesa’s commitment to responsible gaming, customer satisfaction, and technological leadership. But beyond the accolades, it honors the millions of fans and players who make SportPesa their home for entertainment, community, and winning moments.

“Being named Africa’s Best Sports Betting Brand is not just a milestone — it’s a celebration of belief, innovation, and doing things right,” added the company. Setting the standard for Africa This continental recognition cements SportPesa Tanzania as a true leader in the digital gaming industry.

For fans, it’s a mark of quality. For competitors, it’s a challenge.

For Africa, it’s proof that homegrown excellence can rival global standards. Choosing SportPesa means choosing reliability, innovation, and trust — values that continue to power the brand’s rise beyond Tanzania’s borders.

SportPesa Tanzania’s victory at the Best Brand Africa Awards signals more than industry leadership — it’s a defining moment for African innovation. As the brand continues to inspire with its commitment to transparency and customer-first thinking, it’s clear that SportPesa is not just betting on sports — it’s betting on Africa’s potential.

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Unguja. Zanzibar President Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi has said that, for the first time, the share of domestic revenue has risen significantly, enabling the Isles to finance much of its operations using its own resources–thanks to robust digital systems and tighter revenue controls.

He said that through the Zanzibar Sukuk initiative, the government has successfully financed several strategic projects, strengthened investor confidence, and opened new avenues for private sector participation in national development. He said every strong economy depends on efficient revenue institutions, adding that his administration had implemented major reforms in tax collection and strengthened the Zanzibar Revenue Authority (ZRA) along with its internal systems.

“We have introduced digital tax collection systems that have significantly reduced revenue leakages, improved efficiency, and made compliance easier for taxpayers,” said Dr Mwinyi during a ceremony held at State House grounds in Zanzibar to celebrate the Isles’ economic and financial reforms, distribute dividends to investors in the Zanzibar Sukuk, and launch a new Islamic-compliant social security scheme. He noted that Zanzibar is now reaping the results of these efforts, with the economy growing by more than 7.

2 percent annually. He added that sound policies, modern systems, and prudent management of public finances continue to support Zanzibar’s economic expansion.

Dr Mwinyi further cited increased domestic and foreign investment, stable single-digit inflation, and a 278 percent rise in domestic revenue over the past five years, alongside strong performance in the services, tourism, agriculture, and fisheries sectors. He said the reforms are grounded in accountability, transparency, and effective use of modern technologies.

Speaking about the Sukuk, Dr Mwinyi said that after launching it in 2024, the government is now witnessing the first payout to investors–a milestone that demonstrates its effectiveness in managing sovereign instruments. “Through Sukuk, the government has financed strategic projects, strengthened investor confidence, and opened new doors for private sector participation in national development,” he said.

“This marks a new financial chapter that places Zanzibar on the global map of Islamic investment. We have every reason to celebrate these achievements and thank everyone who made them possible.

” Dr Mwinyi added that inclusive economic growth cannot be achieved without a solid insurance framework. To that end, the government, through the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC), has launched an Islamic insurance (Takaful) scheme designed to provide Sharia-compliant coverage.

He said the scheme is already improving access to health services, ensuring that hospitals and clinics receive timely funding, and giving citizens greater confidence in accessing quality healthcare. Speaking on the newly launched Sharia-based social security scheme, Dr Mwinyi said the initiative will allow the Zanzibar Social Security Fund (ZSSF) to invest in Sharia-compliant ventures–including facilitating Hajj (pilgrimage) arrangements for members.

Meanwhile, the Minister of State in the President’s Office (Finance and Planning), Dr Saada Mkuya Salum, commended Dr Mwinyi for steering significant financial and economic reforms over his five-year leadership term. “Leadership demands creativity and forward thinking, and the President has demonstrated both.

When he assumed office, the financial management systems were not in good shape, but he has turned that around,” she said. Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Finance and Planning, Mr Aboud Hassan Mwinyi, said that over the past five years, the Eighth Phase Government has implemented major reforms across the economic and financial sectors–forming the backbone of national development.

He said that during this period, actual revenue rose from Sh671 billion to Sh2.9 trillion, the central government budget increased from Sh1.5 trillion to Sh6.9 trillion, and the development budget share grew from 24 to 65 percent. Similarly, the national GDP expanded from S trillion to Sh6.5 trillion.

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Dar es Salaam. The Drug Control and Enforcement Authority (DCEA) has arrested four people accused of making cannabis biscuits during a house party in the city.

The suspects, all aged 26 and reported to be university students, were found celebrating a friend’s birthday at a house in Mlalakuwa, where the biscuits were allegedly being prepared. This is not the first time such products have been seized in incidents involving students, a trend that authorities say signals a growing risk among young people.

DCEA Commissioner General Aretas Lyimo said the suspects were found with 140 cannabis biscuits, eight rolls of marijuana, and nine packets of cannabis weighing a total of 2.858 kilogrammes.

“This shows how our young people are putting their lives in danger by engaging in the production of drug-laced products for leisure,” Mr Lyimo said. He urged university students to stay away from drug abuse and focus on their studies to achieve their dreams.

“Our youth are the country’s workforce. We want them to live healthy lives and avoid being misled into using drugs for entertainment.

The authority will not hesitate to take firm action against anyone involved in such offences,” he warned. In a separate operation, DCEA seized a total of 10,763.94 kilogrammes of various narcotic drugs, 6,007 kilogrammes and 153 litres of precursor chemicals during nationwide operations conducted between September and October 2025. At Kariakoo, Dar es Salaam, the authority intercepted 40.32 kilogrammes of dried khat disguised as spices and packed in 80 packets labelled “Dry Basil Leaves.

” The consignment was being shipped to Canada and Italy through courier companies. Two suspects were arrested, and initial investigations revealed that the drugs had been smuggled into Tanzania from a neighbouring country.

“Our investigation has uncovered a khat trafficking network using motorcycle riders and some courier agents to move drugs discreetly. This network risks damaging the country’s international image, and we will not tolerate it,” said Mr Lyimo.

He added that the authority is also investigating the use of cannabis in consumer products such as beverages, food, cosmetics, and electronic cigarettes (vapes), some of which have been found to contain cannabis compounds. Mr Lyimo said joint operations between DCEA and other security agencies across the regions led to the seizure of 9,164.92 kilogrammes of cannabis, 1,555.46 kilogrammes of khat, 367 grammes of skunk, and 7.

498 grammes of heroin, as well as the destruction of 11.5 acres of cannabis farms. He also warned motorcycle riders, transport company owners, and courier agents to be cautious with the goods they handle to avoid falling into legal trouble.

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Chalinze. In a small village in Chalinze District, laughter fills the air as 63-year-old Mwanaidi Seleman, a traditional birth attendant, welcomes visitors.

Her eyes gleam with life–a sharp contrast to the years she endured the blinding pain of trachoma, a disease that once robbed her of hope. Her left eye had gone blind, and many in her community believed she was cursed for “bearing too many children.

” Today, she shares her story with renewed joy. “I had lost all hope,” she says softly.

“But after receiving treatment through the government’s programme, I can now see clearly. God is good.

” Behind her recovery is Margreth Mumbua, a clinical officer and skilled trachoma trichiasis (TT) surgeon, whose compassion and precision have restored sight to hundreds across Chalinze. After graduating from Mvumi Clinical Training College in 2005, she received specialised training under the Ministry of Health’s trachoma elimination initiative.

“For nearly two decades, I’ve travelled to remote villages, performing eye surgeries for people who might otherwise have gone blind,” she says. “When I see my patients regain their vision, my heart is full.

” Breaking superstition Ms Margreth admits that superstition remains a major obstacle. “Many believe elderly people suffering from trachoma are witches.

It takes time to convince them that this disease is preventable and treatable,” she explains. To build trust, she learned local languages, saying this helped “break down walls of fear and mistrust.

” Among the hundreds she has treated, one patient remains unforgettable: Emmanuel, a commuter bus driver from Bagamoyo. He suffered from painful inward-turning eyelashes caused by trachoma.

His case was complicated by a heart condition and the use of blood-thinning drugs. Despite the risks, Margreth performed surgery.

Hours later, Emmanuel began bleeding and was rushed back. Margreth stabilised him but was called again late that night.

She drove through rough roads, reaching Bagamoyo at 1 a.m.

“My heart sank when I saw him,” she recalls. “But I knew I had to act.

” She worked tirelessly until 3:30 a.m.

, when the bleeding stopped. Two weeks later, Emmanuel’s eye had healed completely.

“That night will stay with me forever,” she says. Restoring hope For Margreth, her work is more than a profession–it is a calling.

She urges people to seek help early. “If something feels wrong with your eyes for more than two or three days, go to hospital.

Don’t wait for a miracle,” she advises. Ms Mwanaidi, who suffered for two years before getting surgery, says, “Margreth operated on my eye, cleaned it and kept checking on me.

Within two months, I was healed.” Another patient, Rosemary Masanja, known locally as Bibi Tito from Fukayosi in Bagamoyo, endured eye discomfort for nearly 20 years.

“One day, health workers came to register people with eye problems,” she recalls. “I was diagnosed with trachoma in both eyes and had surgery.

” After the operation, I could see clearly again.” National efforts According to Dr Faraja Lyamuya, the Ministry of Health’s Manager for Lymphatic Filariasis and Hydrocele Control, community participation remains a challenge in eliminating trachoma.

“To end this disease, community involvement is crucial,” he says. National NTD Programme Manager Dr Clarer Mwansasu says over 41,000 trachoma surgeries have been conducted since 2014. When the SAFE strategy–Surgery, Antibiotics, Facial cleanliness, and Environmental improvement–was introduced in 1999, 69 communities had active trachoma cases.

“As of 2025, 64 districts have reached elimination thresholds,” he notes. “TT cases have dropped from 167,000 in 2004 to about 10,000 in 2023.” However, over one million people remain at risk, especially in pastoral communities that migrate frequently.

For health workers like Margreth, every successful surgery is more than a medical milestone–it is a victory against darkness, ignorance, and avoidable blindness. .

Dodoma. The Public Service Commission (PSC) has reinstated 34 public servants who were dismissed by their employers, while nine other cases have been referred back to lower authorities for rehearing.

The Commission has also upheld disciplinary actions imposed on 38 other employees. Out of these, ten appeals were dismissed for being filed out of time, while two others were deferred for further review by the Secretariat.

Releasing the figures yesterday, the Acting Secretary of the PSC, Mr John Mbisso, said the Commission had received a total of 15 complaints. Of these, six were upheld, six rejected and three struck out for specific reasons.

Mr Mbisso said the Commission met in Dodoma from September 29 to October 17, under the chairmanship of retired Judge Hamisa Kalombola, to review and determine 108 appeals and complaints filed by public servants. He recalled that on September 26, the Commission held a press briefing to explain its approach to handling appeals and complaints, stressing its commitment to fairness through advisory and corrective mechanisms, as well as ensuring justice in the public service.

According to him, local government authorities accounted for the majority of the cases, particularly involving ward, village and street-level officials. The Commission summoned 18 appellants and three respondents to provide further clarification on the matters raised.

“The most common offences committed by public servants included breaches of the code of ethics, absenteeism, forgery of certificates and falsification of information, negligence in performing duties and theft of public property,” he said. The Commission’s legal officer, Mr Hussein Mussa, said the employees who won their appeals must be reinstated immediately and paid all their dues.

He added that if the employers wished to contest the decision, they could appeal to the President of the United Republic of Tanzania. Mr Mussa further said that the nine employees whose cases were returned for rehearing should also be reinstated and paid their salaries before the new proceedings begin.

“There is no loss to the government compared to the injustice that public servants suffer when their fundamental rights are violated. The law requires that those whose cases are to be reheard must first be reinstated and paid before proceedings resume,” he said.

He urged employing authorities to follow proper procedures before dismissing staff, warning that many cases reviewed by the Commission show employees being unfairly treated by lower-level administrative bodies. .

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania’s national women’s football team, Twiga Stars, has received a major boost ahead of their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifier against Ethiopia, as all players selected for both the first and second leg encounters have now joined camp.

The update was confirmed by Tanzania Women Football Association (TWFA) chairperson Somoe Ng’itu, who expressed satisfaction with the players’ arrival and the team’s preparations ahead of the crucial first-leg match scheduled for tomorrow in Dar es Salaam. Somoe said that all foreign-based players reported to camp on time in accordance with FIFA regulations and are blending well with the locally based squad under the guidance of head coach Bakari Shime.

“Basically, all players are in top shape and waiting for the clash against Ethiopia, who were expected to arrive in the country by last night,” said Somoe. “The spirit in camp is very high, and the technical bench is impressed with how quickly the players have adapted to the game plan.

” Among the foreign-based stars is Diana Lucas, who has been in impressive form for Trabzonspor in the Turkish Women’s Super League. She is expected to play a key role in leading the attack for Twiga Stars.

bAlso joining the squad are the Mexico-based duo of Enekia Kasonga and Julitha Singano, both featuring for FC Juarez. Their inclusion brings valuable international experience, composure, and creativity in the midfield, assets that could make a difference against a disciplined Ethiopian side.

The list of overseas professionals is completed by Hasnath Ubamba of Al Masry in Egypt and Noela Luhala, who plays for Asa Tel Aviv in Israel, both of whom strengthen Tanzania’s defensive options. The locally based contingent features some of the best talents from the domestic league, including Najat Abbas, Asha Mrisho, Donisia Misnja, Lidya Maximilian, Ester Maseke, Fumukazi Ally, Christer Bahera, Janeth Pangamwene, Elizabeth Chenge, Stumai Abdallah, Jamila Rajab, and Winifrida Gerald.

Also named in the squad are Asha Ramadhan, Fatuma Issa, Aisha Mnunka, Maimuna Kaimu, Nusrat Jaffar, and Suzan Adam, completing a well-balanced lineup that combines youth and experience. Somoe added that the team has shown excellent chemistry in training sessions and that focus now shifts to executing the tactical plan effectively.

“Coach Shime and his technical team have prepared the players very well. Everyone knows what’s at stake — qualifying for the WAFCON finals is our biggest goal,” said Somoe.

The return leg is set for October 28 in Ethiopia, with the aggregate winner over the two matches earning a spot in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations finals, to be hosted in Morocco. The tournament will feature 16 of Africa’s best national women’s teams.

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Tokyo. Hardline conservative Sanae Takaichi was elected Japan’s first female prime minister on Tuesday, shattering the political glass ceiling and setting the country up for a decisive turn to the right.

An acolyte of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and an admirer of Britain’s Margaret Thatcher, Takaichi is expected to return to Abe-style government stimulus as she attempts to jumpstart an economy saddled with slow growth and rising prices. While her victory marks a pivotal moment for a country where men still hold overwhelming sway, she named just two women to her cabinet, far fewer than what she had promised.

Takaichi is also likely to usher in a sharp move to the right on issues such as immigration and defence, making her the latest leader in tune with the broader rightward shift in global politics. She received 237 votes in the election in parliament’s 465-seat lower house on Tuesday and then won a similar vote in the less powerful upper house.

Her victory was secured after her Liberal Democratic Party, which has governed Japan for most of its postwar history, agreed on Monday to form a coalition with the right-wing Japan Innovation Party, known as Ishin. Together the parties are two seats short of a majority in the lower house.

That means Takaichi’s success will depend on her winning the cooperation of more opposition lawmakers, said Tadashi Mori, a professor of politics at Aichi Gakuin University. “The two parties do not command a majority in either chamber and to ensure a stable government and gain control of key parliamentary committees, they will need to secure more than half the seats,” he said.

previous coalition broke up after quarter century Takaichi takes over when Japanese politics appears more fractured than at almost any other time in recent memory, thanks in part to the rise of the smaller, hard-right Sanseito Party, which has siphoned voters away from the LDP. “Since former Prime Minister Abe passed away, we’ve felt that both national politics and the LDP itself have drifted leftward,” Sanseito head Sohei Komiya told broadcaster NHK, adding he hoped Takaichi would steer national politics back to the middle.

“While we won’t hesitate to oppose her when necessary, we intend to maintain a friendly working relationship,” he said. The LDP’s former coalition partner, the more moderate Komeito, broke up their 26-year-old alliance this month after the LDP chose the right-wing Takaichi as its new leader.

no ‘nordic’ cabinet after all Takaichi named just two women to her cabinet: fellow Abe disciple, Satsuki Katayama becomes the country’s first female finance minister while Kimi Onoda becomes economic security minister. In her leadership campaign she promised to boost the number of women in the cabinet to match socially progressive Nordic countries.

The percentage of female ministers in Nordic governments ranges from Denmark’s 36% to Finland’s 61%. Under Takaichi, women will make up 16% of Japan’s cabinet, including her.

“Only two female ministers, no surprise,” said Yoko Otsuka a professor of welfare policy and gender studies at Ritsumeikan University. “A female prime minister might slightly improve Japan’s Global Gender Gap Index ranking, but the reality barely changes.

” takaichi trade moves stocks higher Takaichi’s endorsement of Abe-style fiscal stimulus has prompted a so-called “Takaichi trade” in the stock market, sending the Nikkei (.N225) , opens new tab share average to record highs, the most recent on Tuesday.

But it has also caused investor unease about the government’s ability to pay for more spending in a country where the debt load far outweighs annual output. Both the yen and bond prices have weakened as a result.

Any attempt to revive Abenomics could also run into trouble because the policy was devised to fight deflation, not higher prices, said Aichi Gakuin’s Mori. Some analysts say Ishin, which has advocated for budget cuts, could restrain some of Takaichi’s spending ambitions.

Takaichi has said defence and national security would be core pillars of any administration she led. She pledged to raise defence spending, deepen cooperation with the United States and other security partners.

U.S.

President Donald Trump may visit as early as her first week in office. A frequent visitor to the Yasukuni war shrine in Tokyo that some Asian neighbours view as a symbol of wartime aggression, Takaichi has also called for a revision of Japan’s postwar pacifist constitution to recognise the existence of the nation’s military forces.

Rising political star Shinjiro Koizumi will serve as defence minister while veteran lawmaker Toshimitsu Motegi will be foreign minister. Takaichi will be sworn in as Japan’s 104th prime minister on Tuesday evening to succeed the incumbent Shigeru Ishiba, who last month announced his resignation to take responsibility for election losses.

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Dar es Salaam. Tanzania is rapidly expanding its horticultural footprint across regional and global markets, driven by major upgrades in cooling infrastructure at the Dar es Salaam Port.

Tanzania exports horticultural produce such as avocado, seaweed, cocoa beans, flower seeds, vegetable seeds, cut flowers, eggplant, bitter gourd, cinnamon and cloves among others. The improvements have bolstered the country’s access to international markets, increased export volumes, and strengthened its competitive position in East Africa and beyond.

Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) Director General, Mr Plasduce Mbosa, told The Citizen that the Port of Dar es Salaam has been undergoing a “refrigeration revolution” in recent years–one that is transforming Tanzania’s role in global trade. “We have invested heavily in advanced cooling infrastructure.

The port currently boasts more than 400 reefer plugs, dedicated to powering refrigerated containers (reefers) that transport temperature-sensitive goods such as fruits, vegetables, and seafood,” he said. Mr Mbosa added that this was only the beginning, as the port plans to more than double its reefer handling capacity to over 1,000 plug points within the next three years–a strategic move aimed at tapping into Tanzania’s growing potential as a major exporter of perishable goods.

He noted that uninterrupted cooling is crucial in the perishable logistics industry. To ensure reliability, the port has installed a redundant power system, with diesel generators on standby to provide emergency backup during grid failures.

Even in the event of power outages, reefer cargo receives priority power allocation to maintain an unbroken cold chain. To further preserve quality and reduce spoilage, all terminal operators at the port offer 24-hour temperature monitoring services for reefer containers.

“These constant checks ensure that perishable goods remain at optimal temperatures throughout their stay at the port, preserving freshness and preventing costly losses,” he explained. Mr Mbosa said the upgraded cooling infrastructure is already paying off, enabling exporters of Tanzanian-grown avocados, mangoes, seafood, and other fresh produce to ship larger quantities with improved quality.

The products now reach overseas markets fresher and with extended shelf life–reducing waste and increasing profitability. Meanwhile, Tanzania Horticultural Association (TAHA) Chief Executive Officer, Ms Jacqueline Mkindi, said the horticulture sector has achieved remarkable performance in 2024, driven by strong export growth across key international and regional markets.

She said this reflects Tanzania’s rising status as one of Africa’s leading horticultural producers. According to TAHA data, Tanzania’s horticultural exports to the East African Community (EAC) recorded explosive growth of 225 percent in volume and 470.45 percent in value–from 22,400 tonnes worth $1.32 million in 2023 to 72,800 tonnes valued at $7.53 million in 2024. Kenya emerged as the top destination, absorbing 91 percent of Tanzania’s regional horticultural exports, with oranges leading the list of exported crops.

In Asian markets, exports to China and India rose by 30.25 percent in volume–from 95,200 tonnes in 2023 to 124,000 tonnes in 2024–although the total export value fell sharply by 43.53 percent, from $56 million to $31.6 million. Exports to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) also surged, with a 131.54 percent increase in volume and a 43.52 percent rise in value, reaching 60,200 tonnes worth $13.9 million in 2024. “Avocados dominated, accounting for 89 percent of the export volume, reinforcing Tanzania’s growing reputation as a leading avocado exporter in global markets,” Ms Mkindi said.

She added that exports to South Africa grew impressively, with volumes increasing by 110.73 percent and values soaring by 579.21 percent–from 0.9965 tonnes worth $1.8 million in 2023 to 2.

1 tonnes valued at $12 million in 2024. Exports to the European Union (EU) also recorded modest gains, rising by 27.45 percent in volume and 3.7 percent in value–from 24 tonnes worth $253.8 million in 2023 to 31.85 tonnes worth $263.3 million in 2024. The Netherlands led the EU market, receiving 47 percent of Tanzanian horticultural exports.

Avocados accounted for 46 percent of the export volume, while vegetable seeds represented 28 percent of export value. “This shift toward high-value horticultural products reflects a strategic positioning in premium European markets,” Ms Mkindi added.

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