Category: The Citizen

Women in Dar es Salaam have underscored the importance of climate change education, saying it is helping them turn environmental challenges into economic opportunities while strengthening their resilience against the growing impacts of climate change.

For years, Veronica Julius, a resident of Kivule in Ilala District, struggled with unpredictable weather patterns that disrupted her farming activities. Heavy rains frequently flooded her fields, while prolonged dry spells caused crops to wither in the sandy soil.

However, she says climate and environmental education has transformed her outlook and provided practical solutions to adapt to changing conditions.

Speaking during a stakeholders’ workshop organised by My Legacy on June 23, 2026, Veronica said the training programmes had helped her understand the causes and effects of climate change and how communities could respond effectively.

‘Whenever rainfall was excessive, our farms became waterlogged and difficult to cultivate. During the dry season, the soil dried quickly, resulting in crop losses and reduced income,’ she said.

Agriculture was one of her family’s main sources of livelihood, and the situation had previously forced her to depend on casual work to support her household.

According to Veronica, conditions started improving after she participated in environmental awareness and climate resilience training programmes.

The knowledge gained enabled her and other women in the area to establish community-based environmental initiatives through local gender clubs.

One initiative, known as the “Zero Waste” campaign, promotes waste management as both an environmental solution and an economic opportunity.’Many people see waste as something to dispose of, but we have learned that it can be a valuable resource.

It can be recycled, reused and even generate income for families,’ she said.

Under the initiative, discarded plastic containers are being repurposed as flower pots, while other waste materials are collected and recycled for productive use.

Apart from supporting environmental conservation efforts, the programme is also helping women earn additional income while reducing pollution linked to climate change.

My Legacy programme coordinator, Amina Mtengeti, said women and girls remain among the groups most vulnerable to the effects of climate change because of their traditional responsibilities within households and communities.

She said water scarcity, driven by prolonged droughts and changing rainfall patterns, continues to place a disproportionate burden on women.

‘When water becomes scarce, women and girls are often responsible for searching for it. As a result, they spend considerable time collecting water instead of engaging in education, income-generating activities and other opportunities,’ she said.

Ms Mtengeti said the impact extends beyond household economies and affects health and wellbeing, particularly among adolescent girls.

Limited access to clean water, she explained, can undermine personal hygiene and increase health risks, especially during menstruation.

‘That is why climate change education is important. Communities need to understand these impacts and learn how to build resilience before the challenges become more severe,’ she said.

She added that equipping women and girls with climate knowledge not only helps them cope with environmental challenges but also enables them to identify economic opportunities related to environmental conservation and sustainable resource management.

The workshop formed part of the Green Shores (Mialo ya Kijani) project, implemented by My Legacy in partnership with Hadithi House and funded by the European Union through the Vijana Art Works programme.

The project provides women and girls from different parts of Dar es Salaam with a platform to share experiences, learn adaptation strategies and participate in initiatives aimed at addressing climate change impacts.

Efforts to digitise the COMESA Yellow Card Scheme are expected to enhance regional trade, improve insurance services and ease movement of goods across borders, delegates attending the 64th Management Committee meeting in Dar es Salaam this week heard.

The meeting brought together representatives from about 15 member states to discuss modernising the regional motor insurance system, reducing operational bottlenecks and strengthening compensation mechanisms for accident victims travelling across borders.

The scheme is a cross-border motor insurance arrangement guaranteeing compensation for third-party liabilities arising from road accidents involving motorists travelling within participating countries.

Chairman Mr David Boucher of Djibouti said discussions focused on reforms to make the scheme more efficient and responsive to growing trade demands.

He said two meetings are held annually to prepare changes ahead of the Council of Bureaux meeting, adding that digitalisation is central to addressing challenges.

Member states are increasingly adopting technology to improve service delivery and strengthen confidence among road users and transport operators, he said.

He commended Tanzania for hosting and said delegates received strong support.

‘It is my pleasure to be here. Tanzania has hosted before and we are warmly welcomed,’ he said.

NIC Managing Director Mr Kaimu Abdi Mkeyenge said the scheme facilitates trade by ensuring compensation regardless of where accidents occur.

He said Tanzania benefits due to its strategic position as a gateway for landlocked countries using the Port of Dar es Salaam.

He said the arrangement simplifies cross-border travel and promotes integration and growth.

He acknowledged challenges in claims settlement but said digital improvements have reduced them.

He said system-based issuance has reduced counterfeit insurance cards through verification and security collaboration.

Tanzania Insurance Regulatory Authority (Tira) Commissioner, Dr Baghayo Saqware urged faster digital transformation and integration of regulatory systems.

He said efficiency, reduced paperwork and system connectivity would improve service delivery and claims processing.

He called for simpler processes and reduced documentation for motorists crossing borders.

Delegates also noted that digital reforms are expected to reduce delays at border posts by enabling real-time verification of insurance cover, improving coordination between national bureaux and enhancing trust among transport operators across the region.

They further said harmonised digital systems would help member states share data more efficiently, particularly on claims management and fraud prevention, thereby strengthening the credibility of the scheme and reducing disputes.

Officials said the Yellow Card Scheme remains a key pillar in facilitating intra-regional trade under COMESA integration efforts, particularly for economies reliant on road transport corridors linking ports to inland markets.

Tanzania’s role as a logistics hub for neighbouring landlocked countries was highlighted as central to the success of the scheme, with stakeholders noting increasing cargo volumes moving through Dar es Salaam port.

Participants agreed that continued investment in digital infrastructure and regulatory cooperation would be critical in ensuring the scheme keeps pace with growing cross-border transport demand.

Stakeholders said reforms will also support safer roads, faster claims settlement, and improved accountability across the insurance value chain, reinforcing regional economic integration and boosting confidence in cross-border transport systems within Comesa member states.

Zanzibar President, Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, has sworn in Mansura Mossi Kassim as Secretary of the Revolutionary Council and Chief Secretary of the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar (RGZ).

The ceremony took place on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at the State House in Zanzibar and was attended by senior government officials.

Ms Kassim, who was appointed on Monday, June 22, 2026, previously served as Permanent Secretary in the Office of the President (Constitution, Legal Affairs, Public Service, and Good Governance).

She replaces former Chief Secretary, Ms Zena Ahmed Said, who was appointed the Ambassador to Saudi Arabia by Tanzania President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

Ms Said had served as Chief Secretary since 2021, following Dr Mwinyi’s assumption of office, before her reassignment to the diplomatic post earlier this year.

Career profile

Ms Kassim becomes the second woman to hold the position in Zanzibar’s history, after Ms Said.

She began her public service career as a junior officer in the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, later advancing her education while in service.

She was subsequently appointed director within the ministry during the administration of the former President, Dr Ali Mohamed Shein.

Following President Mwinyi’s election in 2020, she was appointed Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Constitution, Legal Affairs, Public Service, and Good Governance.

In 2023, she was promoted to Permanent Secretary in the same ministry, succeeding Mr Seif Shaaban, who was later transferred to the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Irrigation before retirement.

Her appointment marks a steady rise through Zanzibar’s civil service ranks, culminating in her elevation to one of the government’s top administrative posts.

Architect Alex Temu was arraigned before the Kisutu Resident Magistrate’s Court, allegedly on three counts, including obtaining $299,925 (about Sh788.2 million) by false pretences.

Mr Temu appeared before Principal Resident Magistrate Romuli Mbuya, where State Attorney Salome Martin read the charges.

State visits often come with colourful ceremonies, formal speeches and diplomatic courtesies.

But some visits carry significance that extends far beyond protocol. The recent State Visit by Namibia’s President, Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, to Tanzania was one such occasion.

The visit was not merely about strengthening bilateral relations between two friendly nations.

It served as a reminder that Africa’s liberation history still carries strategic value in shaping the continent’s future political and economic direction.

For Tanzania and Namibia, relations have never been built solely on trade interests or political convenience. They were forged during Southern Africa’s liberation struggles, when Tanzania stood firmly behind Namibia’s quest for independence.

Tanzania provided political, diplomatic and logistical support to the South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO), while many Namibian freedom fighters found a home and a support system within the country.

President Nandi-Ndaitwah herself was among those who spent part of their liberation journey in Tanzania. Her return, this time as Head of State, was therefore more than symbolic.

It represented a full-circle moment in a relationship rooted in sacrifice, solidarity and shared aspirations.

However, while history creates strong foundations, it cannot by itself sustain modern relations. Nostalgia does not create jobs, expand markets or strengthen economies.

Historical goodwill must be transformed into practical cooperation that delivers measurable benefits to citizens.

Encouragingly, this appeared to be one of the central messages of the visit.

The strong focus on economic diplomacy and the Tanzania-Namibia Business Forum demonstrated recognition that political friendship must evolve into stronger trade and investment partnerships.

Agriculture, mining, tourism, manufacturing, logistics and energy are sectors where both countries possess opportunities for mutual benefit.

Tanzania can benefit from Namibia’s expertise in sectors such as livestock and mining development, while Namibia can leverage Tanzania’s strategic geographic position and access to East African markets.

Such partnerships become increasingly important as African countries seek to reduce dependence on external markets and strengthen intra-African trade.

This is particularly relevant at a time when implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area continues to gather momentum.

Africa has spent years discussing regional integration, yet practical outcomes have often lagged behind political commitments. Strong bilateral partnerships can serve as building blocks for broader continental ambitions.

The visit also highlighted another important reality: the growing role of women in African leadership.

The meeting between President Samia Suluhu Hassan and President Nandi-Ndaitwah projected a strong image of female leadership at the highest level.

Beyond symbolism, it reflected changing governance realities across the continent and demonstrated that leadership effectiveness is not determined by gender.

Perhaps the most memorable moments of the visit came when President Nandi-Ndaitwah revisited places associated with her liberation journey, including Magomeni and Kongwa.

Such moments reminded many people that the freedoms enjoyed today were achieved through difficult struggles and collective sacrifice.

But Africa cannot afford to remain captive to memories alone. The continent’s liberation history should not simply be remembered; it should be utilised as a source of political trust and strategic cooperation.

The significance of President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s visit ultimately lies in its broader message. Shared history matters.

But it matters even more when it becomes a foundation for economic transformation, regional integration and future prosperity.

That is where the true value of this visit should be measured.

Mining stakeholders have welcomed the government’s decision to reinvest a portion of mineral revenues back into the sector, saying the move could boost exploration, productivity, and value creation in Tanzania’s mining industry.

The move is expected to improve the long-term sustainability of mining sector governance.

On Monday, Minerals Minister, Mr Anthony Mavunde, said the government will, for the first time, retain 10 percent of gross mineral revenues and reinvest in sector development.

Funds will be channelled through the Mineral Research Fund for geological surveys, research, and investments to support growth, especially small-scale miners.

‘The government will retain 10 percent of gross mineral revenue collections for research and investment,’ Mr Mavunde told Parliament in Dodoma.

He said the initiative targets challenges like poor geological data, limited financing, outdated technology, and low productivity.

It also aligns with broader reforms in extractive sector management.

‘For the first time since Tanzania’s independence, 10 percent of revenue generated from the mining sector will be reinvested into developing the industry.

The funds will support geological research, mineral exploration, and strategic investments aimed at improving productivity, particularly among small-scale miners,’ said Mr Mavunde, pledging that authorities will closely monitor the implementation.

The report launched on small-scale mining development aligns with the government’s strategy to boost sector contribution.

Tanzania Chamber of Mines executive secretary, Mr Benjamin Mchwampaka, welcomed the move, saying it would strengthen exploration, noting that better data would help small miners and reduce risk for investors.

‘This is a positive development. The government plans to allocate about Sh1 trillion annually from non-tax revenues to finance geological exploration across the country. The aim is to identify mineral potential areas,’ said Mr Mchwampaka.

‘Experts believe it could also attract new investment into exploration activities. This is expected to enhance efficiency in the allocation of resources across the mining value chain,’ he added.

He said better data will help small miners and reduce risk for investors, noting that the initiative will provide valuable information to small-scale miners, helping identify prospecting areas and reduce costs and risks in exploration. Federation of Miners Associations of Tanzania President, Mr John Bina, said the move is a milestone for the sector.

He said there was a need for inclusive growth and capacity building among artisanal miners.

According to him, the primary goal should be to support small-scale miners to grow into medium-scale operators and ultimately large-scale mining companies

‘For us, this is a major achievement and a transformative reform for the industry. It demonstrates that the government recognizes the strategic importance of the mining sector and is committed to long-term development,’ said Mr Bina.

As the sector grows, he said, Tanzanians will be better positioned to participate and benefit from mineral wealth

‘We are also encouraged by the government’s move, which will enable guarantees and support mechanisms for miners similar to practices in other mining countries,’ he added.

‘This is an important step that will help miners access financing, expand operations, and contribute to the growth of the industry,’ he added.

Policy analyst, Mr Silas Olang, welcomed the initiative but questioned the legal basis, highlighting concern about the importance of clear legislative backing for fiscal reforms.

‘It is a good initiative, but we would like to know the legal basis under which it will be administered as a provision not in the Mining Act,’ he said.

The Minerals Ministry Permanent Secretary, Mr Yahya Samamba, said the Finance Bill process is underway, noting that Parliament is expected to conclude the review during the ongoing budget session.

‘The Minister for Finance has submitted a proposal to Parliament through the Finance Bill. Under the proposal, 10 percent of revenues collected by the Mining Commission will be set aside for sector development,’ he said.

‘The matter is under parliamentary consideration as part of the Finance Bill and is expected to receive approval after the process,’ he stressed.

These developments signal a growing commitment to strengthening Tanzania’s mining sector through reinvestment of revenues and improved governance structures for sustainable growth, supporting the national economic transformation agenda, and sector resilience.

Kenya’s government has signed a 154.2 billion Kenyan shilling ($1.2 billion) agreement with China Road and Bridge Corporation to expand Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Transport Minister Davis ?Chirchir said on Tuesday.

The East African nation ?plans to nearly triple the annual passenger ?capacity at the Nairobi airport to 22 ?million people from 7.5 million. The project was previously ?halted last year after Kenya cancelled a 2024 agreement with India’s Adani Group following the indictment of its founder ?in the United States.

“The project scope includes ?the construction of a new terminal building and associated support , ?the modernization and upgrading of existing infrastructure, the improvement of airside and landside operations,” Chirchir said on his X account.

Kenya is aiming to maintain ?its role as ?a regional ?aviation hub as countries such as Ethiopia and Rwanda invest heavily in ?new airport construction to attract airlines ?and ?travellers.

Last week, Chirchir said the government had appointed Africa’s Trade and Development Bank and the Africa Finance ?Corporation ?to arrange financing for the project.

Tanzania and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have expressed a commitment to strengthening cooperation in diplomacy, culture, education, science and world heritage.

The commitment emerged during talks between the UAE Minister of Culture, Sheikh Salem bin Khaled Al Qassimi, and Tanzania’s ambassador to France, Saidi Yakubu, at the Tanzanian Embassy in Paris on Wednesday.

The two leaders agreed to continue consultations and strengthen cooperation between institutions from both countries to promote people-to-people relations, preserve and promote cultural heritage and enhance their contribution to peace, mutual understanding and global development.

Sheikh Al Qassimi, who also serves as chairperson of the UAE National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, visited the Tanzanian Embassy in Paris as part of efforts to strengthen relations between the two countries.

During the meeting, Ambassador Yakubu said Tanzania and the UAE continue to enjoy close relations built on mutual respect, economic cooperation and a shared vision for sustainable development.

The discussions come at a time when Tanzania and the UAE are recording growing political, economic and social ties following efforts by leaders from both countries to deepen cooperation for mutual benefit.

The new head-to-head World Cup tiebreak rule has already produced group winners and early exits, while the scramble for one of the eight best third-placed spots means plenty still hinges on the final round of group games beginning on Wednesday.

When goal difference was the first deciding factor in separating side’s level on points, a three-point deficit could still be clawed back in the last group game.

Now, FIFA has made the result between tied teams the first criterion, ahead of goal difference, goals scored, fair play, and, if necessary, FIFA rankings.

At the last ?World Cup, three countries secured qualification to the knockout rounds after two group games, but no group winners had been confirmed.

Those three teams had beaten the second-placed sides but the three-point gap meant they could still be overhauled on goal difference.

That led to possible drama where a goal either way could shake things up. In the end, all three stayed top, though Brazil came within one goal of losing first place to Switzerland.

This time, four teams enter the final matchday already assured of top spot, a direct consequence of beating their ?closest rivals under the new system.

Mexico, the United States, Germany and Argentina all hold three-point leads that cannot be overturned on the final day. The same logic applies to those already out.

In 2022, two teams were out after two rounds, but they were both four points off second spot, so their elimination owed nothing ?to tiebreak scenarios.

Now, Haiti, Turkey, Tunisia, Jordan and Panama all sit three points off third place but their earlier results mean even a win will not salvage their tournament.

The US play Turkey in Group D on Thursday, and ?this is the only dead-rubber across the 12 groups, because for the first time since the 1994 World Cup, finishing third in your group does not automatically mean elimination.

With eight ?of the 12 third-placed sides reaching the Round of 32 – and goal difference likely to come into play – many will not know their fate until the final whistle of the last group game on Saturday.

Qatar’s sports minister and national team player Assim Madibo visited Canada midfielder ?Ismael Kone to check on his after he was injured during their World Cup game, the Qatar Football Association said on ?Wednesday.

Qatar suffered a heavy 6-0 defeat ?by Canada in their Group B clash, ?during which Kone sustained a broken ?leg following a clumsy second-half tackle from ?Madibo. Kone has since undergone surgery.

“They were received by the President of the Canadian Soccer Association,” ?the Gulf country’s soccer governing body ?said on Facebook.

“This visit reflects the spirit of sportsmanship ?the strong relationships on and off the field. We wish the player a speedy recovery and a quick return to ?the pitch,” ?it ?added.

The Qatar Football Association posted photos of the visit, with one ?showing the two players hugging ?each ?other. Kone was sitting in a wheelchair.

Qatar are set to play against Bosnia and ?Herzegovina ?in their final group ?match, while tournament co-hosts Canada take on Switzerland.