Category: The Citizen

Dar es Salaam’s rugby community is gearing up for another exciting weekend as the Dar Leopards Annual Touch Rugby Tournament returns to Ufundi Stadium in Mikocheni on Saturday, 13 June 2026, with matches and activities running from 9:00am to 6:00pm. Widely regarded as one of the city’s most anticipated social rugby events, the tournament will bring together players, supporters, families and corporate partners for a full day of touch rugby, entertainment and community celebration.

Hosted by Dar Leopards Rugby Club, the annual event continues to play a vital role in promoting rugby across Tanzania by providing a welcoming and inclusive platform for both experienced players and newcomers to enjoy the sport. Beyond the competition, the tournament fosters teamwork, fitness, sportsmanship and the growth of rugby culture throughout the country.

This year’s edition is expected to attract 20 teams from across East Africa. Reigning champions Karen Crusaders will return to defend their title against strong opposition from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, Nairobi, Iringa and Arusha.

While the on-field action promises plenty of excitement, spectators can also look forward to a vibrant festival atmosphere throughout the day at Ufundi Stadium. Entry is free, with food and beverage vendors, live music, a dedicated children’s zone and a family-friendly environment ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The celebrations will extend beyond match day, with a Friday night social gathering at The Slow Leopard on Chole Road, followed by an official after-party, making the tournament a true rugby festival both on and off the pitch. The event is made possible through the support of a strong network of sponsors.

Roadgrip headlines this year’s tournament as Gold Sponsor, while Airswift Workforce Solutions and Baker and Sons Safari Company join as Silver Sponsors. Bronze Sponsors include OLEA Insurance Brokers, Reveurse, Steinweg Logistics, ZanBluu Beach Hotel, AMEL Asset Finance Solutions, Meta and The Slow Leopard.

Additional support has also been provided by Painted Dog Craft Gin, Tanzania Breweries Limited (TBL), GardaWorld and Splendid Cleaning and Events Speaking ahead of the tournament, Dar Leopards Rugby Club expressed its appreciation to sponsors, players and supporters for their continued commitment to the development of rugby in Tanzania. “The Annual Touch Rugby Tournament is more than a competition.

It is a celebration of sport, friendship and community. Every year, we see the rugby family grow stronger, and we are grateful to our sponsors and supporters who continue to stand with the club and help us make this event bigger and better.

” As the countdown begins, Dar Leopards Rugby Club is inviting rugby enthusiasts, families, corporate teams and members of the wider public to join the festivities at Ufundi Stadium on 13 June for a memorable day of sport, fun and community spirit. Spectator entry is free, ensuring that everyone can enjoy what promises to be one of the standout rugby events on the city’s sporting calendar.

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The United States denied entry to Somali football referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan over the weekend, preventing him from becoming the first Somali official to referee at a World Cup. FIFA said on Monday that Artan would be unable to train or officiate at the tournament, which begins on Thursday, after US authorities refused him entry into the country.

“FIFA is not involved in host country immigration processes, including visa adjudications, and has been informed by authorities that Mr Artan’s status will not be changed at present,” a FIFA spokesperson said. Artan said he remained optimistic despite the setback and would continue focusing on his refereeing career.

“I would like to thank FIFA and CAF for all their support, and I promise to keep my refereeing standards high as I concentrate on the future,” he said. “I want to thank the football family for their messages and wish my colleagues every success during the World Cup.

I look forward to joining them again in future competitions.” US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) said a Somali national arrived at Miami International Airport from Istanbul on Saturday and was deemed inadmissible following additional vetting.

The agency did not provide further details, citing law enforcement, national security and immigration considerations. The decision comes amid heightened scrutiny of immigration policies under President Donald Trump.

Last year, Washington imposed a travel ban affecting citizens of 12 countries, including Somalia. Artan, who was named the Confederation of African Football’s Best Male Referee for 2025, reportedly held a valid visa.

Somalia’s embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to requests for comment. .

Dar es Salaam. Singapore and Tanzania have pledged to deepen economic cooperation, with leaders and business executives from both countries identifying trade, investment, logistics, tourism and the digital economy as priority areas for future collaboration.

Speaking at the Tanzania-Singapore Business Forum on Tuesday, June 09, 2026, Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam said the two countries were building on long-standing ties rooted in centuries of Indian Ocean trade. Although geographically distant, he said Tanzania and Singapore share a history of exchange that can be leveraged to strengthen economic partnerships in an increasingly uncertain global environment.

“We know the international trading order is not what it used to be. It is more uncertain, and that uncertainty is likely to endure.

In such a world, the answer must be to diversify, build new corridors of opportunity and create more resilient supply chains,” he said. President Shanmugaratnam described Tanzania as a country of immense promise, pointing to its youthful population, abundant natural resources, expanding investment opportunities and strategic location linking regional and global markets.

He said sectors such as agribusiness, tourism, infrastructure, logistics and the digital economy present strong prospects for collaboration between Tanzanian and Singaporean firms. “From sectors like agribusiness to tourism, there is real potential for meaningful partnership, combining Tanzania’s advantages with Singapore’s experience in efficient systems, advanced supply chain management, high-value services and the digital economy,” he said.

He said that stronger cooperation would help create jobs, enhance skills and support inclusive growth in both countries. During the visit, the two governments signed an agreement on the avoidance of double taxation and a memorandum of understanding on carbon credit cooperation.

President Shanmugaratnam said the tax agreement would reduce the cost and risk of doing business while boosting investor confidence. “We signed an avoidance of double taxation agreement, which will lower the cost of doing business, reduce the risks of doing business and thereby give investors greater confidence,” he said.

The two countries are also working towards a bilateral framework to facilitate carbon credit transactions and climate-related investments. On her part, President Samia Suluhu Hassan described the visit as historic, marking the first state visit by a Singaporean Head of State to Tanzania, coinciding with 45 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

She said talks between the two leaders had resulted in agreements aimed at elevating bilateral relations and expanding economic cooperation. President Hassan noted that Singapore’s experience in economic transformation, port development, technology and investment management offers valuable lessons for Tanzania as it advances its industrialisation agenda.

She said Tanzania remains one of Africa’s fastest-growing and most stable economies, strategically positioned as a gateway to East and Southern Africa and the wider African market of more than 1.4 billion people.

“Despite strong diplomatic ties, significant opportunities remain untapped, particularly in trade, logistics, tourism, infrastructure and digital services,” she said. The President added that both countries should work towards building resilient supply chains and diversifying economic partnerships amid growing uncertainty in the global trading environment.

Tanzania Private Sector Foundation (TPSF) chairperson Angelina Ngalula said the long-standing friendship between the two countries should now translate into concrete commercial partnerships, joint ventures and investments. She said Tanzania offers growing opportunities in agriculture, agro-processing, mining, transport and logistics, energy and infrastructure.

According to her, Singapore’s strengths in technology, financial services, logistics, engineering and skills development align closely with Tanzania’s development priorities. “Governments can create an enabling environment and open doors, but it is the private sector that must drive trade and investment.

The real deals will be made by businesses,” she said. Ms Ngalula urged companies from both countries to use business-to-business engagements to identify investment opportunities and commit to practical follow-up actions.

Meanwhile, the Singapore Business Federation (SBF) said it plans to expand its presence in Tanzania and across Africa as part of efforts to deepen commercial ties with the continent. SBF Vice Chairman Mark Lee said Africa is increasingly seen as a strategic growth market, with Tanzania emerging as one of the region’s most attractive investment destinations.

“We believe in Africa and we aspire to do considerably more on this continent than we have done to date,” he said, citing Tanzania’s strategic location, East African Community membership, investment reforms and expanding logistics infrastructure as key attractions for Singaporean investors. He said Singapore has registered 36 investment projects in Tanzania since 1997, valued at more than $500 million and creating over 3,000 jobs.

“Our role is to translate political momentum into commercial substance, into trade, investment and partnerships that endure beyond the headlines of a state visit,” he said. A delegation of 15 Singaporean companies is currently exploring opportunities in industrial logistics, consumer goods, green technology, digital solutions and tourism, signalling growing interest in Tanzania as a gateway to East Africa.

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Dar es Salaam. The opposition party, Chadema, has dismissed viral social media reports claiming it has reinstated former firebrand legislator Halima Mdee to bolster its ranks ahead of a renewed political contest with the ruling CCM.

Speaking in a telephone interview with The Citizen yesterday, Chadema secretary-general John Mnyika clarified that the party’s constitution and regulations prescribe a specific procedure for any expelled member seeking readmission. He emphasised that the process requires the individual to formally apply for membership through a written letter.

“After they have applied, the specific meeting or organ that expelled them must convene to deliberate on the letter and decide whether the membership is to be accepted or not,” said Mr Mnyika. He noted that the procedure differs significantly from that of members who resign voluntarily, as expelled individuals must have their reinstatement considered by the same body that removed them.

Mr Mnyika maintained that if such a process had taken place, it would already be a matter of public record. “If all those processes had been conducted, it would have been public knowledge by now,” he added, insisting that such reports are false.

The controversy dates back to November 27, 2020, when Chadema stripped 19 cadres of their membership after they were sworn in as Special Seats Members of Parliament in Dodoma without the party’s authorisation. The legislators included Halima Mdee, Esther Matiko, Grace Tendega, Cecilia Pareso, Ester Bulaya, Agnesta Lambert, Nusrati Hanje and Jesca Kishoa.

Others were Hawa Mwaifunga, Tunza Malapo, Asia Mohammed, Felister Njau, Naghenjwa Kaboyoka, Sophia Mwakagenda, Kunti Majala, Stella Fiao, Anatropia Theonest, Salome Makamba and Conchesta Rwamlaza. The group was expelled for allegedly acting contrary to the party’s position and failing to honour a summons issued by the National Council.

Following their expulsion, the MPs appealed to the party’s Governing Council, which upheld the decision. They subsequently sought legal redress in the High Court in an attempt to challenge the party’s move.

However, their legal battle hit a snag when High Court Judge John Mgetta dismissed their application on a technicality. The court sided with Chadema advocate Peter Kibatala, who argued that the MPs had sued a non-existent institution by naming the ‘Board of Trustees’ instead of ‘The Registered Trustees, Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo-Chadema’.

Judge Mgetta ruled that the defect was substantial enough to warrant dismissal. Following the dissolution of Parliament in June 2025, the political landscape shifted as the 19 former legislators sought new political homes ahead of the October 29, 2025, General Election.

By late 2025, the ruling CCM, ACT-Wazalendo and Chaumma had emerged as the new platforms for at least 11 of the former Chadema members. While several, including Sophia Mwakagenda and Naghenjwa Kaboyoka, had previously held leadership or committee positions in the House, others actively sought CCM’s endorsement for the 2025 polls.

At the time of the realignments, Ms Mdee was among eight former members who had yet to publicly declare a new political affiliation and maintained that she wouldn’t join any other political party. She had previously criticised the process that led to her expulsion as being “clouded by intrigue and lacking transparency.

” As reports of her return continue to circulate in 2026, the lingering question remains whether the time is right for Ms Mdee to rejoin the party she once served with such vigour. For now, however, Chadema insists that its constitutional doors remain closed until a formal application is submitted and duly considered.

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Dar es Salaam. Tanzania’s impressive run to the final of the Caf Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2026 has been further recognised after four of the country’s players were named in the tournament’s Best XI.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) unveiled the team following the conclusion of the competition, with finalists Tanzania and champions Senegal dominating the selection with four players each. The recognition highlights the growing strength of Tanzania’s youth football programme and the impact made by the Young Taifa Stars throughout the tournament.

Tanzania reached the final of the continental championship for the first time in the country’s history before narrowly losing to Senegal on penalties at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat on Tuesday. Despite falling short of the title, the East Africans won praise for their fearless displays and consistency against some of the continent’s strongest youth teams.

The country’s representation in the Best XI includes defender Hussein Mbegu, midfielder and tournament Player of the Tournament Issa Chole, playmaker Dismas Athanasi and winger Razaki Mbegelendi. All four players played pivotal roles in Tanzania’s memorable campaign.

Chole emerged as one of the standout performers at the tournament, leading the team from midfield and earning the competition’s top individual award. Athanasi also enjoyed an outstanding tournament, finishing as the Golden Boot winner with three goals while providing creativity and leadership in attack.

Mbegu was instrumental in Tanzania’s solid defensive displays, while Mbegelendi’s pace and attacking threat caused problems for opponents throughout the competition. Senegal’s champions were represented by goalkeeper Assane Sarr, who won the Golden Glove award, defenders Thierno Sow and Lamine Mbengue, and winger Mouhamed Wagne.

Their contributions helped the Young Lions of Teranga secure a second U-17 AFCON title in three editions, having also lifted the trophy in Algeria in 2023. Hosts Morocco, who finished fourth after losing to Egypt in the third-place playoff, contributed defender Adam Soudi and forward Mohamed Amine Moustache to the Best XI. Egypt’s Ahmed Abdelhalim completed the team after helping his nation secure the bronze medal.

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Africa has stories powerful enough to move the world, yet very few African media brands have managed to establish true global influence. This raises an important question for the future of the continent’s media industry: can African media build global brands, or will it remain largely dependent on international platforms to tell its stories? For decades, global media narratives about Africa have been shaped primarily by international organisations.

When major global events occur on the continent, audiences often turn first to international broadcasters for coverage and interpretation. This is not necessarily because African media lacks talent or stories.

In many cases, it reflects deeper structural challenges involving investment, scale, technology, and strategy. Yet the media landscape is changing rapidly, and for the first time in history, African media has an opportunity to compete globally without relying entirely on traditional systems of distribution.

The rise of digital platforms has removed many of the barriers that once limited African content. Today, a podcast recorded in Nairobi, a documentary produced in Lagos, or a Swahili commentary show from Dar es Salaam can reach audiences across continents instantly.

Distribution is no longer controlled exclusively by satellite networks and international broadcasters. Smartphones, streaming platforms, YouTube, TikTok, and social media have created a more open playing field.

However, access alone does not automatically create global brands. Visibility is not the same as influence.

One of the biggest challenges facing African media is consistency in long-term brand building. Many media organisations focus heavily on daily survival generating traffic, managing operational costs, and competing for advertising revenue.

While these pressures are understandable, they often leave little room for strategic investment in global positioning. Building a global media brand requires patience, quality control, innovation, and sustained identity over many years.

Another challenge is confidence. Too often, African media underestimates the value of its own stories.

In an attempt to imitate international formats, some organisations lose the authenticity that could have differentiated them globally in the first place. Yet authenticity is increasingly becoming one of the most valuable assets in modern media.

Global audiences are no longer looking only for polished international perspectives; they are seeking real voices, local insight, and culturally grounded storytelling. Monetisation remains another major obstacle.

Global media expansion requires funding, yet many African media houses operate within constrained advertising markets. International platforms capture a large share of digital advertising revenue while local publishers struggle to convert audience growth into sustainable income.

Without stronger business models, even promising media brands risk stagnation. This is why partnerships could become increasingly important.

Collaborations between African media companies, technology firms, investors, and content creators may help accelerate scale and visibility. Rather than competing in isolation, regional cooperation could strengthen the continent’s media ecosystem and create brands capable of reaching global audiences more effectively.

There is also a generational shift taking place. Younger African creators are already building international audiences through podcasts, YouTube channels, digital publications, and creator-led platforms.

In many cases, they are moving faster than traditional media organisations because they understand digital culture intuitively. They engage directly with audiences, adapt quickly to trends, and build communities rather than simply broadcasting information.

Traditional media should pay close attention to this shift. The future of global African media influence may not come from replicating old models.

It may emerge from hybrid ecosystems that combine journalism, storytelling, entertainment, technology, and creator culture. Importantly, building a global brand does not mean abandoning local audiences.

In fact, strong global brands are often deeply rooted in their local identity. The global success of African music, fashion, and entertainment demonstrates this clearly.

Audiences around the world are increasingly drawn to content that feels distinct and culturally confident. African media therefore faces both a challenge and an opportunity.

The challenge is overcoming structural limitations, inconsistent investment, and fragmented strategies. The opportunity is that the world is more connected and more curious about Africa than ever before.

The question is no longer whether African media can reach global audiences. Technologically, that is already possible.

The real question is whether African media organisations are ready to think beyond survival and begin building institutions, brands, and stories designed not only for local relevance, but for lasting global influence. .

Dodoma. The President of the Tanzania Teachers’ Union (TTU), Mr Suleiman Ikomba, has been arraigned at Dodoma Resident Magistrate’s Court and read 14 charges involving corruption allegations, forming a criminal gang, and economic sabotage.

Mr Ikomba appeared in court on Monday, June 8, 2026, where he joined nine other CWT leaders who are facing the same charges filed by the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB). Initially, his co-accused were arraigned on May 25, 2026, when he was absent, but he has now joined them, including former TTU president, Ms Leah Ulaya, former secretary general, Mr Maganga Japhet, treasurer, Mr Nashon Kidudu, and the current secretary general, Mr Joseph Misalaba.

Others are Mr Baraka Mbonalibha, who is alleged in the charge sheet to have been an internal auditor, Mr Wambura Kihengu, Ms Angelina Wambura, as well as Pyrite and Industries Company Limited The prosecution alleges that the accused jointly obtained Sh2.2 billion contrary to the TTU constitution, and also benefited from Sh1.3 billion from Pyrite and Industries Company Limited, with the intention of influencing a tender for the production of T-shirts and caps for the union. After the charges relating to economic sabotage were read, Mr Ikomba was not required to enter a plea, as the court does not have jurisdiction to hear and determine such matters at this stage.

Before Principal Resident Magistrate Denis Mpelembwa, State Attorney Gothard Mwingira told the court that investigations into the case were incomplete. However, Magistrate Mwingira also said the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) had not yet issued consent on whether the case should proceed in the current court or be transferred to the Economic Crimes Court.

Defence lawyer, Mr Meshack Ngamando, said bringing the accused to court before investigations has completely denied them freedom, as they remain in custody. “Out of the 14 charges facing them, some are bailable.

The delay in completing investigations means the accused continue to remain in remand, whereas the case could have started, and some of them could be out on bail under conditions while attending court from home,” said advocate Ngamando. In his ruling, Magistrate Mpelembwa ordered the prosecution to speed up investigations and complete all required procedures so that the case can begin promptly and ensure that the DPP’s consent is obtained, so that justice can be served.

Meanwhile, TTU, in a meeting held on Monday, June 1, 2026, under the Vice President, Mr Shaban Ambindwile, proposed the name of James Asagwile as its new treasurer. The National Executive Council (NEC) meeting said it was empowered under Article 31(c) of TTU to appoint one of its members as treasurer, while the vice president and deputy secretary general positions have been temporarily filled In a related development, the Dodoma Resident Magistrate’s Court has adjourned an economic sabotage case involving employees of the Tanzania Electrical, Mechanical, and Services Agency (Temesa) to Monday, June 22, 2026, after the prosecution informed the court that investigations were incomplete The accused in the case include Lazaro Kilahara, Mathias Rutaguza, Sambayeti Magoko, Kennedy Manene, Peter Bongole, Clavery Busunzu, Mbisho Kinguti, Renatha Juma, Vicent Lutebuka, Michael Assey, Caesar Chambo, Nassoro Igangule, Deus Matiku, and Kentra Tanzania Limited The court was also informed that, in addition to incomplete investigations, consent from the DPP to proceed with the trial has not yet been obtained.

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Bagamoyo. The Catholic Bishop of Bagamoyo Diocese, Stephano Musomba, has called on Mkombozi Bank officials to uphold transparency, accountability and responsibility in their operations to strengthen public trust and enhance the institution’s efficiency.

He made the remarks during the official inauguration of the bank’s 16th branch in Bagamoyo, where he also urged the lender to continue expanding its services to bring banking closer to the people. Bishop Musomba said transparency, accountability and responsibility were essential principles for the bank’s continued growth and effective service delivery.

“If we uphold these principles, we will bring honour to the bank and make it a trusted institution for many people. This bank belongs to the people, and we must ensure that the public fully understands its existence and the services it offers,” he said.

He noted that the opening of the branch would greatly benefit residents of the newly established diocese, who previously had to travel to Dar es Salaam to access banking services. According to him, the branch will improve access to financial services and support economic activities in the area, while financial literacy programmes should be extended to grassroots communities.

“We must educate people at the community level so that they can fully utilise banking services, including loans, savings and other financial products that support business growth,” he said. Mkombozi Bank Managing Director Mr Respige Kimati said the Bagamoyo branch is the bank’s 16th outlet since its establishment in 2009, marking another milestone in its expansion strategy.

He said the bank currently operates in 12 dioceses out of the 37 dioceses within its target market and remains committed to expanding its footprint to improve accessibility. “Having branches is important because it brings services closer to the people.

Opening a branch in Bagamoyo has been a long-standing ambition for us, given the strategic importance of this area to our operations,” he said. Mr Kimati said the bank currently has branches in several regions, including Mwanza, Bukoba, Geita, Kahama, Dodoma, Morogoro, Iringa, Njombe, Kilimanjaro, Arusha and the Coast Region.

He added that once expansion across all 37 dioceses is completed, the bank intends to extend its services further to parish level. Mkombozi Bank Board Chairman Mr Gasper Njuu said the lender is embracing technological innovation to reach a wider customer base, particularly young people who increasingly rely on digital platforms.

“Our services are designed to empower every citizen seeking financial services,” he said. Mr Njuu described Mkombozi Bank as one of the fastest-growing financial institutions in the country, citing growth in share value and dividend performance as evidence of its progress.

He noted that the bank’s shares, which were initially sold at Sh1,000 in 2014, are now valued at S,000, reflecting growing investor confidence and strong business performance. He added that the bank is among the leading financial institutions in dividend distribution and will continue to expand its reach through agent banking and digital channels to serve more customers, especially young people.

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Dar es Salaam. Analysts have defended President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s assertion that Tanzania does not align itself with competing geopolitical blocs, saying her recent state visit to Russia is consistent with the country’s long-established foreign policy of non-alignment and pragmatic engagement.

However, they have cautioned that Tanzania must carefully navigate an increasingly complex international environment as major powers intensify competition for influence across the globe. President Hassan made the remarks during an interview with Tanzanian journalists on the sidelines of the 29th St Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF 2026) on Friday, June 5.

She dismissed suggestions that her state visit to Russia signalled a shift in Tanzania’s foreign policy orientation, maintaining that the country remains committed to working with all nations in pursuit of its development objectives. “We work with everyone.

We don’t choose who to work with. By coming to Russia, we are simply expanding the scope of those with whom we closely cooperate,” she said.

Her comments followed speculation that selecting Russia for her first state visit after re-election indicated a move away from Western partners towards Eastern powers. President Hassan rejected that interpretation, arguing that Russia is not a new partner but one of Tanzania’s oldest diplomatic allies.

A political analyst from the University of Dar es Salaam, Mr Salbinus David, said Tanzania’s engagement with Russia should be viewed within the broader context of the country’s longstanding diplomatic principles. “Tanzania has historically maintained a non-aligned and pragmatic foreign policy posture.

The country has never subscribed to choosing friends or partners based on global power rivalries. What matters is whether a partnership advances national interests and contributes to economic development,” he said.

According to Mr David, Tanzania’s approach has traditionally centred on maintaining constructive relations with a wide range of countries while safeguarding its sovereignty and development priorities. For his part, a political analyst from the State University of Zanzibar, Prof Ali Makame Ussi, said the current global environment requires countries such as Tanzania to place greater emphasis on economic diplomacy rather than geopolitical alignments.

“The focus should be on expanding opportunities for trade, investment, technology transfer and industrial development. Any country that presents such opportunities should be considered a potential partner.

Tanzania should not sideline any nation simply because of the strategic interests or preferences of other powers,” he said. He added that developing economies increasingly need diversified partnerships to support growth, attract investment and enhance competitiveness in a rapidly changing global economy.

A political scientist from the University of Dodoma, Dr Paul Loisulie, said broadening international partnerships was important, but warned that Tanzania must remain alert to evolving geopolitical realities. “The world is becoming increasingly complex, with major powers competing for influence across different regions.

Tanzania must continue engaging strategically, guided by its development priorities rather than ideological camps,” he said. “The key is to cooperate with partners based on mutual benefit and national interests, not on who is aligned with whom in global politics.

” President Hassan noted that relations between Tanzania and Russia date back to the country’s independence struggle and the liberation movements that helped shape Africa’s political history. She said the former Soviet Union recognised Tanganyika’s independence in 1961 and became the first country to recognise the union between Tanganyika and Zanzibar that created the United Republic of Tanzania in 1964. “Russia is not a new friend.

It is a traditional friend that has stood with Tanzania for many years,” she said. The President reiterated that Tanzania’s foreign policy remains rooted in non-alignment and constructive engagement with all nations, regardless of geopolitical divisions.

To illustrate the country’s balanced diplomatic approach, she cited China’s contribution to infrastructure development, India’s position as one of Tanzania’s leading trade and investment partners, and ongoing cooperation with Japan, Europe and the United States across various sectors. “Europe remains a major source of investment capital, while the United States is our leading source of tourists and development support,” she said.

She added that strategic projects such as the liquefied natural gas (LNG) project and major mining investments involve partners from Europe and the United States. “When we talk about LNG and natural gas, we are working with Europe and America.

Kabanga Nickel also involves American investment,” she said. President Hassan was in Russia for a three-day state visit at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

During the visit, she held bilateral talks with President Putin, received an honorary doctorate from the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University) and addressed investors at SPIEF 2026, where she promoted Tanzania’s investment opportunities. She also attended the Tanzania-Russia Business Forum and urged investors to support Tanzania’s ambition of becoming a $1 trillion economy under Vision 2050. Despite growing diplomatic engagement between the two countries, trade volumes remain relatively modest.

Official figures indicate that bilateral trade increased from $178.8 million in 2020 to approximately $307.5 million in 2025. Tanzania’s exports to Russia also rose from $7.5 million to $29.5 million during the same period. Russia’s largest investment in Tanzania remains the $1.2 billion Mkuju River Uranium Project in Ruvuma Region.

The project is being developed by Mantra Tanzania Ltd, a subsidiary of Russia’s state nuclear corporation, Rosatom. Analysts say the growing relationship demonstrates Tanzania’s determination to diversify its international partnerships while maintaining a foreign policy that prioritises national development interests over geopolitical alignments.

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Dar es Salaam. Tanzania’s national golf team produced an impressive performance to finish joint third at the Africa Region IV Men Team Championship held at Tamarina Golf Club in Mauritius.

The result ranks among Tanzania’s best performances at the regional event, which attracted some of East and Southern Africa’s emerging golf nations, including hosts Mauritius, Kenya, Seychelles, Reunion Island and Burundi. The Tanzanian team, comprising Jumanne Mohamed, Isiaka Dunia, Enoshi Wanyeche and Victor Mbunda, displayed consistency and determination throughout the three-day tournament to finish tied for third place on 39-over-par.

Hosts Mauritius emerged champions after posting a winning score of one-over-par, while Kenya finished second on 32-over-par. Tanzania shared third place with Seychelles and Reunion Island in a tightly contested championship.

Played over 54 holes in a stroke-play format across three rounds, the tournament tested both individual skill and team depth, with each country fielding four golfers. Tanzania head coach Fadhyl Nkya praised his players for their resilience and commitment, saying they had done the country proud by competing strongly against some of the region’s leading golfers.

“The players made the country proud by finishing third. They showed resilience, determination and professionalism throughout the week.

I am very pleased with the way they conducted themselves both on and off the course,” said Nkya. He attributed the achievement to thorough preparations spearheaded by the Tanzania Golf Union (TGU), including a pre-tournament training camp at Kili Golf Club in Arusha.

According to Nkya, the camp played a key role in helping the golfers fine-tune their game, strengthen team chemistry and prepare mentally for the championship. “The preparations were excellent.

TGU organised a camp for us at Kili Golf Club in Arusha and the hard work we put in there has paid off. The players remained focused throughout the competition and the results speak for themselves,” he said.

Nkya also extended his appreciation to all stakeholders who supported the team’s campaign. “A special thank you to the Chairman of the Tanzania Golf Union, Gilman Kasiga, the executive committee, our sponsors, supporters, team management and everyone who made this journey possible,” he said.

Meanwhile, TGU Chairman Gilman Kasiga has congratulated the national golf team for bringing pride and recognition to Tanzania through their impressive performance. Kasiga said that thorough preparations, the players’ experience, and quality coaching were the key factors behind the team’s success.

He added that the results have inspired both the players and officials, expressing confidence that Tanzania will one day become champions in international golf competitions. “This team could do even better and we shall consistently keep the team competing in various tournaments to keep improving and bring trophies,” he said.

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