Category: The Citizen

Arusha. A group of six Form Five students from Arusha Science Secondary School has developed a digital platform aimed at turning Tanzania’s growing waste challenge into economic opportunity while promoting environmental sustainability.

The project, dubbed “Cyclo turning waste into wealth”, is a digital marketplace and smart waste management system designed to connect waste producers, collectors and recyclers on a single coordinated platform, supporting a more efficient circular economy. The innovation comes at a time when Tanzania is grappling with rising volumes of solid waste.

According to the National Environment Management Council (NEMC), the country generates between 14.4 million and 20.7 million tonnes of solid waste annually. However, less than 50 percent is formally collected, while only five to 10 percent is recycled.

NEMC warns that low recycling rates continue to contribute to environmental pollution, blocked urban drainage systems, disease outbreaks, and the deterioration of urban landscapes. Presenting the project during the school’s first Science-to-Use (SITU) innovation graduation exhibition on Sunday, May 31, 2016, a team member, Ms Shawn Mareale, said Cyclo seeks to bridge the information gap between waste generators, collectors, and recycling companies.

“CYCLO is a digital platform that streamlines waste management by connecting producers, collectors, and recyclers within one coordinated system. By improving communication, and reducing information gaps, it enables more efficient, transparent, and organised waste handling,” she said.

The platform features a waste collection request system, digital tracking of waste movement, recycling, and sorting coordination, a marketplace for recyclable materials, and data analytics tools to support waste reduction strategies. According to Ms Mareale, the innovation is expected to reduce landfill waste, create green jobs, stimulate recycling industries, improve urban cleanliness and support Tanzania’s Vision 2050 ambitions for a green and sustainable economy.

Another team member, Ms Janelle Dominick, said rapid urbanisation, and industrialisation have significantly increased plastic and industrial waste, while weak waste management systems continue to pose environmental, and public health risks. “Many valuable recyclable materials such as clothes, bottles, electronic waste, plastics, and others are discarded instead of being reused because there is no efficient mechanism linking waste producers with collectors, and recyclers,” she said.

She noted that the platform allows users to request waste collection services, locate nearby collectors, and manage transactions digitally, improving efficiency, and transparency across the waste value chain. The system, she added, has the potential to reduce pollution, generate income for collectors, and recyclers, and create cleaner, and more organised urban environments.

Team member Theo Kikula explained that users submit waste pickup requests through the application, after which the system automatically matches them with verified nearby collectors. “Collectors then coordinate transportation, and collection services, while all transactions and updates are managed digitally within the platform,” he said.

Beyond waste collection, Cyclo also promotes the transformation of waste into value-added products, including environmentally friendly construction materials, creating new business opportunities from materials that would otherwise end up in landfills. The innovation was showcased during the school’s inaugural SITU graduation ceremony, which focuses on practical scientific innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Head of Science Department, Mr Ally Msangi, said the programme is designed to nurture confidence, competence, and excellence among students by encouraging them to identify real-world challenges, and develop practical solutions. “These projects demonstrate students’ ability to think critically, innovate, and solve societal problems.

Our goal is to ensure their ideas contribute meaningfully to communities while creating economic opportunities,” he said. Mr Msangi said the SITU programme was launched in 2025, with Form Five students undergoing a year-long innovation training course.

Out of 28 projects developed in the first cycle, 19 have been successfully completed. The projects span science, technology, renewable energy, entrepreneurship, environmental conservation, and health.

He said the school is committed to supporting promising innovations beyond the classroom so they can evolve into viable products, and services that address societal challenges while generating income for young innovators. “We want these innovations to open doors for students, create jobs, and become drivers of economic development.

We are therefore calling on stakeholders to support student-led projects through funding and mentorship,” he said. The School Headmaster, Prof Nuhu Habibu, said continuity remains one of the biggest challenges facing student innovators after secondary education.

He said many promising projects lose momentum when team members join different universities, making it difficult to continue collaboration. “Students may develop excellent innovations while at school, but sustaining them after graduation becomes difficult when teams are separated.

Parents should work closely with schools and help young innovators remain connected so they can continue developing their ideas and even establish companies,” he said. Prof Habibu said many successful global enterprises began as student collaborations, stressing the importance of maintaining partnerships to transform school innovations into sustainable businesses.

Beyond Cyclo, students also showcased other innovations aimed at solving everyday challenges through technology. One is an artificial intelligence-powered smart lighting system that allows users to switch electrical lights on and off remotely using a mobile phone.

Student Mohamed Abubakari, one of the developers, said the system can be integrated into smart electrical setups, allowing homeowners to control lighting even when away from home. “The technology saves time by eliminating the need to physically switch lights on or off.

It is also beneficial for people with disabilities, who can control lighting directly from their phones without using wall switches. In addition, it helps reduce electricity wastage when users forget to switch off lights before leaving home,” he said.

Another group developed a Smart Water Card System designed to improve water management and reduce wastage through a prepaid mechanism. According to student Constantine Dominic, users purchase water credit similar to mobile airtime, which is stored on a smart card.

“The user loads the card with a selected amount of water and uses it at a dispensing machine. By tapping the card, the user selects the required number of litres, and water flows until the limit is reached, after which the system stops dispensing,” he said.

He said the technology could significantly reduce water wastage by giving users greater control over consumption. .

Budapest. Arsenal’s hierarchy need to make quick, smart and bold decisions if they are to keep progressing, manager Mikel Arteta said on Saturday, after his side lost on penalties to Paris St Germain in the Champions League final.

The defeat is the second time Arsenal have lost in the final of Europe’s premier competition, although this time they will console themselves knowing they have just won their first English domestic title in 22 years. The London club took the lead in Budapest when Kai Havertz lashed in after just six minutes, but they were eventually pegged back by an Ousmane Dembele penalty and then suffered penalty shootout heartbreak after extra time.

A crestfallen Arteta said his club now needed to make some “very important decisions” if they wanted to become a dominant force both domestically and in Europe. “First of all, I would take a few days with my family and then we will start the process to review what we’ve done,” Arteta told reporters.

“If you want to reach another level, we’re going to have to show that ambition because we are more than capable of doing it, but it demands to be very, very ambitious, very fast and very smart.” PSG dominated possession after Arsenal shocked the reigning champions by taking the early lead.

It was only once the French side equalised in the 65th minute that Arsenal pushed on, although that left more of the kinds of spaces in behind on which PSG’s dangerous attack thrives. The centre-back pairing of Gabriel and William Saliba put in near-faultless performances as Arsenal stifled PSG.

But the Brazilian was the unfortunate one to miss the final penalty and leave the French side the winners. Arteta said he felt Arsenal could have had a penalty of their own when Noni Madueke fell under pressure in the box in extra time, but he didn’t want to use that as an excuse.

“If, if, if is not what happened,” the Spaniard said. “So we need to do better, to improve and find different margins to get the outcome.

” Both Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard and the team’s midfield engine, Declan Rice, echoed Arteta’s disappointment. They put in a hard shift.

PSG had 72 percent of possession compared to Arsenal’s 28 percent and made roughly four times as many attacks and completed passes. “It’s small margins that will decide a game like this and when it’s penalties even more so,” Odegaard said.

“That’s the reality of football and we have to deal with that.”ent .

Dar es Salaam. The Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) has officially launched Season Two of the Samia Kalamu Awards, an initiative aimed at strengthening journalism standards and recognising journalists’ contribution to national development.

Speaking during the launch on Sunday, May 31, 2026, TCRA Director General, Mr Peter Mwasalyanda said the awards form part of government efforts to enhance professionalism in the media sector by promoting integrity, accountability, and quality reporting. The awards are jointly organised by TCRA, the Tanzania Media Women’s Association (Tamwa) and the Journalists Accreditation Board (JAB).

This year’s edition will also feature a special category recognising outstanding journalism that combines news reporting with sector-specific coverage. Mr Mwasalyanda said eligible entries must have been published between July 1, 2025 and June 30, 2026, with the awards ceremony expected between October and December this year, following a structured selection process designed to ensure transparency, credibility, and broad participation.

He said the second season places greater emphasis on quality journalism, with priority given to well-researched stories supported by data and credible sources. “Content demonstrating clear contribution to national development will be given special consideration,” he said.

“We are encouraging journalism that is grounded in thorough research, reliable statistics and credible sources. Stories that highlight development impact and create opportunities for citizens will be prioritised,” he said.

Mr Mwasalyanda said the selection process will combine professional assessment and public participation, with 40 percent of the final score determined by a panel of judges and 60 percent through public voting via an official online platform. According to him, submissions will be reviewed through an online system, where entries will undergo editorial and technical screening before being opened for public voting.

“These awards continue to provide an important platform for promoting excellence, creativity and ethical journalism, while encouraging media institutions to play a stronger role in national development,” he said. The TCRA chief also said the government views the media as a key partner in promoting transparency, accountability, and public awareness on social and economic issues.

For her part, Tamwa chairperson, Dr Kanaeli Kaale, encouraged journalists to participate in large numbers, urging them to dismiss concerns that the awards are intended to silence the media. She said some journalists had expressed fears that such initiatives could be used to discourage critical reporting, but insisted the awards are meant to promote professional, and development-oriented journalism.

Dr Kaale said development journalism remains essential as it informs the public about progress in various sectors, and assesses whether government policies are addressing citizens’ challenges. “We urge journalists to take advantage of this opportunity and participate fully.

The awards are meant to recognise excellence and encourage high-quality reporting, not limit media freedom,” she said. Meanwhile, JAB Director General, Mr Patrick Kipangula, said that unlike last year, this year’s awards will require accreditation verification to ensure compliance with legal requirements, and enable all eligible journalists to participate.

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Dar es Salaam. Amsons Group director Salim Baabde has been elected chairman of the Tanzania Association of Oil Marketing Companies (TAOMAC), taking over leadership of the petroleum industry lobby group at a time when operators are grappling with supply chain pressures, regulatory demands and shifting market dynamics.

Mr Baabde was elected during TAOMAC’s 26th Annual General Meeting in Dar es Salaam on May 29, succeeding TotalEnergies Tanzania managing director Mamadou Ngom, who completed his term of office. Oryx Energies managing director Imani Mtafya was elected vice chairman.

The new leadership assumes office as the petroleum sector continues to play a critical role in Tanzania’s economy, supplying fuel for transport, power generation, manufacturing and other productive sectors. The industry has in recent years faced challenges linked to global fuel price volatility, foreign exchange pressures and the need to maintain reliable fuel supplies.

In a statement, TAOMAC said the newly elected Board of Governors was expected to steer the association through one of the most demanding periods for the industry. “This election comes at a time when the industry is facing unprecedented challenges.

The new board is expected to guide the organisation through one of the most turbulent periods in its history,” the association said. Mr Baabde brings experience from the association’s leadership, having served as vice chairman and as a member of the outgoing Board of Governors.

The annual meeting drew companies representing more than 97 percent of Tanzania’s petroleum import market, highlighting TAOMAC’s influence in industry policy discussions and engagement with government regulators. Members also approved the association’s 2026 budget and elected a 10-member Board of Governors.

Most board members retained their seats, while three new companies joined the board: GM and Company, Mansoor Industries Limited (MOIL) and Petroafrica Tanzania Limited. TAOMAC said MOIL and Petroafrica had previously served on the board between 2020 and 2024, while GM and Company secured representation for the first time.

Newly elected members of the Tanzania Association of Oil Marketing Companies (TAOMAC) Board. The association noted that the new board reflects the diversity of Tanzania’s petroleum industry, bringing together companies operating through the ports of Dar es Salaam, Tanga and Mtwara, as well as multinational, regional and local firms.

TAOMAC represents oil marketing companies operating in Tanzania and serves as a key platform for industry coordination, policy advocacy and engagement with government agencies on fuel supply, regulation and market development. The association plays an important role in discussions on petroleum imports, storage, distribution and pricing, making its leadership significant for a sector that remains central to Tanzania’s economic growth and energy security.

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Dar es Salaam. Tanzania’s music industry is mourning the loss of veteran Hip Hop and Bongo Flava artiste ZAY B, who died in the early hours of Sunday, May 31, 2026. According to family members, the singer, whose real name was Zaynab Lipangile, had been battling stomach ulcers for some time before her death.

She is expected to be laid to rest at her family home in Kinyerezi, Dar es Salaam, today. The news has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, with fellow artists and fans paying tribute to one of the pioneering female voices in Tanzania’s early Hip Hop and Bongo Flava scene.

Veteran rapper Juma Nature confirmed receiving news of her passing and described it as a major loss to the industry. “It is true that I have received news of ZAY B’s death.

It is very sad because she was among the artistes who fought to build our music industry at a time when everything was difficult. May God rest her soul in eternal peace,” he said.

ZAY B is best remembered for her hit song ‘Nipo Gado’ featuring Inspector Haroun, which became one of the most recognizable tracks of the early 2000s. The song later gained even wider popularity through a remix featuring Juma Nature.

She also enjoyed success with songs such as ‘Monica’ and ‘Ananitesa’, the latter featuring Unique Dadaz, Odinali and Banana Zoro. Beyond her hit singles, ZAY B released the album Mama Africa, which performed strongly in the market and helped establish her as one of the leading female artists of the first generation of Bongo Flava musicians.

Throughout her career, she earned widespread recognition for her lyrical ability and strong presence in Tanzania’s Hip Hop movement. She was also known for her artistic rivalry with fellow rapper Sister P, a competition that captured the attention of fans and contributed to the growth and visibility of Tanzanian Hip Hop during its formative years.

Although she became less active in the music industry in later years and made fewer public appearances, ZAY B’s legacy remains firmly intact. She is remembered as one of the trailblazing women who helped shape the foundations of Bongo Flava and Hip Hop in Tanzania, inspiring future generations of female artists and leaving behind a catalogue of music that continues to resonate with fans.

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Budapest. Paris St Germain equalled the Champions League record for goals scored in one season in the competition as they retained the trophy by edging out Arsenal in a penalty shootout but their triumph was as much about grit as their renowned flair.

A year after demolishing Inter Milan 5-0 in Munich with an attacking master class, this time they found another way to win despite bashing into a solid red wall in the Puskas Arena. “One of the best things we have as a team is our resilience.

We’re able to overcome all the problems,” PSG manager Luis Enrique, whose side dominated the final which ended 1-1 after extra time, told reporters. “Today we showed that even if Arsenal are the best with a one-goal advantage that we could make it.

” The PSG of old might have been spooked after falling behind to a Kai Havertz goal after six minutes on Saturday against an Arsenal team that had conceded only six goals and kept a record-equalling nine clean sheets on the way to the final. Especially as the silky interplay and bewildering movement PSG have become known for under Luis Enrique was lacking throughout a frustrating first half in which they barely tested Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya despite overwhelming possession.

With the likes of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Desire Doue shackled by an oppressive Arsenal side who were content to smother the game, things looked ominous for PSG. They showed patience though, and refused to panic.

PSG ended the game with 837 completed passes to Arsenal’s 199 and more than 70% possession. Yet until Kvaratskhelia burst into the box midway through the second half and drew a foul from Cristhian Mosquera to earn a penalty, which Ousmane Dembele converted, it looked as though the puzzle set by Mikel Arteta’s side would go unsolved.

That was PSG’s 45th goal in this season’s competition, equalling the record of Barcelona in 1999-2000, but this was not a night for expansive flair. The Parisians probed for openings in a scrappy period of extra time without any joy but prevailed 4-3 in the penalty shootout after Arsenal defender Gabriel blazed his kick over.

While it lacked the swagger of last year’s thrashing of Inter, PSG’s triumph against a clinical Arsenal side on a high after claiming their first English title for 22 years was perhaps even more satisfying. It was further proof that Luis Enrique has built a team with resilience at its core and one that finds ways to win as Real Madrid have so often done in Europe’s elite club competition.

PSG have become only the second club, after Real, to retain the European Cup in the Champions League era and, worrying for their rivals, this young squad will get even better. “We have to stay humble,” winger Desire Doue said “It’s not over yet — the second (star on the jersey) is here — so we’re going to keep working hard and go for the third one.

” His words would have been music to the ears of Luis Enrique who has instilled a tenacious work ethic into a gifted team that has dispensed with the big egos who always used to fall short. “(The feeling) is stronger than last year because we knew before the match how difficult it would be to play against Arsenal,” the Spaniard, who has now won the trophy three times as a coach having also taken Barcelona to the title in 2015. “The final was a real battle.

” For Arsenal, their dream of lifting the European Cup proved a step too far after a marathon 63-game season in which they won the Premier League title for the first time in 22 years. They will still celebrate with a parade around the streets of North London on Sunday and, once the dust has settled and the smoke has cleared, they will be back next season as the team most likely to knock PSG off their perch.

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Dar es Salaam. Minister for Industry and Trade, Judith Kapinga, has directed the Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) to work closely with the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) and other relevant institutions to address and eliminate challenges arising from permit issuance systems for cargo entering the country.

The directive was issued on May 29, 2026, during a meeting held at the ministry’s sub-office in Dar es Salaam. Ms Kapinga, accompanied by the Permanent Secretary, Ambassador Salum, met with the TBS Director General, Dr Ashura Katunzi, and her delegation following concerns raised over disruptions experienced by some traders.

The challenges emerged during the integration of TRA’s Tanzania National Electronic Single Window System (TANeSW) with TBS’s Online Application System (OAS), a process that led to operational difficulties affecting the clearance of certain import consignments. Ms Kapinga instructed TBS to strengthen collaboration with TRA and other stakeholders to ensure the smooth functioning of the integrated systems and prevent unnecessary delays for businesses.

She emphasised the importance of efficient digital systems in facilitating trade, improving service delivery and enhancing the country’s business environment. The minister also commended the ongoing efforts by TBS and TRA to integrate their electronic platforms, noting that the initiative would simplify procedures and improve the efficiency of issuing permits for imported cargo.

She said the successful integration of the systems would contribute to faster processing of consignments, reduce administrative bottlenecks and support the government’s broader agenda of promoting trade facilitation and economic growth. The integration forms part of wider efforts to modernise public service delivery through digital technologies and enhance coordination among institutions involved in trade and customs clearance.

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Mbeya. Three people have died and four others sustained injuries following a road accident involving two vehicles at Mambi village in Kongolo Ward, Ilongo Division, Mbarali District in Mbeya Region.

The accident occurred in the morning of Saturday, May 30, 2026, on the MbeyaNjombe highway, when a fuel tanker travelling from Dar es Salaam to Songwe Region involved in a head on collision with an ABC Upper Class bus travelling in the opposite direction. Confirming the incident, Mbeya Regional Police Acting Commander, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Wilbert Siwa, said the lorry belonging to Syenergy Company, veered off its lane and rammed into the bus.

He said the lorry was driven by a resident of Dar es Salaam, Mr Mohamed Seif, who allegedly drove carelessly and drifted into the right side of the road before colliding with the ABC bus, which was travelling from Mbeya to Dar es Salaam. “Those who died in the accident are Ased Asad, also known as ‘Tembo’, the bus driver, the bus conductor, Ms Letisia Bujabi; and the truck driver, Mr Mohamed Seif, also known as ‘Maurid’,” said ACP Siwa, adding that the injured include, Ms Mariam Abdul.

He added that out of the four injured persons, three had been treated and discharged, while Ms Abdul, remained admitted at Inyala Hospital where she is receiving treatment. He further noted that both vehicles sustained extensive damage.

ACP Siwa said preliminary investigations indicate that the cause of the accident was negligence by the lorry driver, who failed to maintain proper lane discipline while attempting to overtake, leading to the fatal collision. He urged drivers to observe road safety regulations and exercise caution at all times to prevent avoidable accidents on the country’s roads.

One of the bus passengers, Mr Charles Isack, said the bus was not speeding and suggested the driver may not have noticed the approaching lorry in time to avoid the crash. “We were travelling at a normal speed, especially since it was still morning.

I think our driver did not see the truck in time to avoid it. We are thankful that some of us survived,” said Mr Isack.

Police said investigations into the incident are continuing as authorities reiterate calls for stricter adherence to traffic laws among road users. .

Dar es Salaam. Deputy Minister for Industry and Trade Dennis Londo has urged students at the College of Business Education (CBE) to take pride in the education they are receiving and make the most of the opportunities available to build knowledge and skills that will shape their future careers.

Speaking at the Career Fair 2026 on May 29, 2026 held under the theme “Innovation and Skills for Youth: The Foundation of Business and Industrial Growth in Tanzania,” Mr Londo said today’s world requires more than academic qualifications, calling on young people to acquire practical skills, innovation, work discipline and technological competence to remain competitive in the labour market and business environment. He said the government, through the Ministry of Industry and Trade, continues to create an enabling environment for young people to participate actively in production, trade, entrepreneurship and industrial development through various economic empowerment policies and programmes.

“We are prioritising the growth of small, medium and large-scale industries, promoting the use of locally produced goods and equipping young people to participate in industrial value chains through entrepreneurship education, technology, access to capital and markets,” he said. Mr Londo noted that, in pursuit of the National Development Vision 2050, the Sixth Phase Government under President Samia Suluhu Hassan continues to invest in education, innovation, technology and entrepreneurship to build an inclusive, resilient and competitive upper-middle-income economy.

He commended CBE for organising the Career Fair, describing it as an important bridge linking education, employment, business and industry by providing young people with opportunities to learn from professionals, showcase innovations, access information on available opportunities and build professional networks. The Deputy Minister also praised the institution for its recent achievements, including its ranking among the country’s top higher learning institutions.

He said CBE’s growing contribution to research, particularly studies published in national and international journals, had played a significant role in strengthening its academic standing. Mr Londo further applauded the college for continuing to improve its educational infrastructure, including the construction of a metrology building, whose first phase has reached 99 percent completion, as well as the expansion and development of its campuses.

Speaking at the event, CBE Governing Board Chairman, Prof Zakaria Mganilwa said the institution would continue strengthening quality, accountability and collaboration with stakeholders to ensure its programmes respond to national needs in business, entrepreneurship, management, finance, technology and employability skills. He encouraged young people to use the Career Fair as a platform for self-discovery and to explore opportunities for self-employment, innovation, technology-driven solutions and collaboration, rather than relying solely on formal employment.

Prof Mganilwa also called on stakeholders to support the 9th Business and Economic Development Conference (9BEDC 2026), scheduled to take place in Mwanza on October 22 and 23, 2026. The conference will provide a platform for the presentation of academic research findings by experts from Tanzania and abroad. For her part, CBE Rector, Prof Edda Lwoga said the Career Fair forms part of the institution’s efforts to bridge classroom learning with the realities of the labour market, business sector and industrial development.

She said the event offers students an opportunity to engage with experts on a wide range of topics, including career development, banking, entrepreneurship, business incubation, economic empowerment, technology, business registration, innovation and employment opportunities. .

Tanzanian singer-songwriter Ben Pol has opened up about his emotional journey through fame, financial hardship and personal recovery, giving fans a rare glimpse into the realities behind his music career. In a heartfelt Instagram narration titled “Stori yangu Mwaka 2014,” the award-winning artist reflected on entering the music industry at a young age and quickly becoming one of Tanzania’s most promising stars.

By his mid-teens, Ben Pol had already released successful songs, performed at major events and earned significant income from music. “At 15 years old, I had already bought my first car and was doing many shows across the country,” he recalled.

“Money was coming in, but I was spending without thinking about the future.” Despite the public image of success, the singer admitted that poor financial decisions and the pressures that came with fame eventually pushed him into serious hardship.

He revealed that there was a time when he struggled so badly he could not even afford basic household necessities. “One morning my friend’s niece told me there was no tea in the house, and I realised I didn’t even have a small amount of money left,” he said.

“That moment forced me to reflect on my entire life.” According to the musician, debts continued piling up and he was eventually forced to sell personal belongings, including his car.

The difficult experience pushed him to return to his family home in Vingunguti, Dar es Salaam, where he decided to rebuild his life from the ground up. “I told myself that I started music with nothing, so I could start again,” he explained.

“I packed my bag and went back home to my mother.” Ben Pol described that chapter as one of the most important turning points in his life.

With support from family and close friends, he slowly regained focus and returned to recording music, often spending long nights in the studio with limited resources. His comeback eventually gained momentum with the release of his hit song “Sofia,” which helped reconnect him with audiences and revive his music career.

“The love from fans and support from friends gave me strength,” he said. “That was the beginning of my comeback.

” The singer also praised fellow artists and supporters who stood by him during his lowest moments, saying their encouragement motivated him to keep pushing forward despite the setbacks. .