Category: The Citizen

Arusha. Top anti-corruption officials from across Africa are meeting in Arusha for a two-day gathering focused on closing gaps that continue to cost the continent an estimated more than $100 billion annually through corruption and illicit financial flows.

The meeting of the Executive Committee of the Association of African Anti-Corruption Authorities (AAACA), held on Monday, April 13 and 14, 2026, brings together heads of anti-corruption bureaus from nine member countries to work on improving continental cooperation in fighting corruption. The session comes at a time when several global reports show Africa loses more than $100 billion every year, with some estimates suggesting the figure could be higher due to hidden financial flows and weak enforcement systems.

Speaking at the meeting, Tanzania’s Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB) Director General Crispin Chalamila said the committee is reviewing progress made on previous resolutions while also preparing new agenda items for the next General Assembly expected in Kenya, which will bring together representatives from 48 African countries. Discussions are focused on strengthening cross-border cooperation in investigations, improving asset recovery systems, and enhancing legal tools for tracking illicit financial flows.

Delegates attending the meeting are from Egypt, Mali, Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Algeria, Sierra Leone, Burundi, Zimbabwe, and host Tanzania. The meeting is expected to conclude with commitments to improve transparency, accountability, and cooperation in tracing and recovering stolen public funds across the continent.

Opening the session, Tanzania’s Minister for Public Service Management and Good Governance, Mr Ridhiwani Kikwete, stressed the need to use modern technology to prevent and detect corruption. He said Tanzania has made progress by digitising many public services, reducing face-to-face interactions and, in turn, opportunities for bribery.

“Most services are now online, which helps reduce direct contact where corruption can occur. The government is also improving reporting systems so people can safely report corruption,” he said.

AAACA President Hisham El Raqaybi said fighting corruption in Africa requires teamwork, strong political will, and enhanced cooperation among countries. He warned that corruption continues to drain resources that should be directed to health, education, and infrastructure.

“This is a shared fight. No single country can win it alone.

We need to work together as Africans,” he said. .

As Africa marks the bicentennial of its modern spice legacy, a powerful opportunity is emerging to redefine the continent’s role in one of the world’s oldest and most valuable industries. The global spices and cloves sector that was once shaped by colonial trade routes and extractive systems, is now being transformed by health-conscious consumers, sustainability demands, and a renewed appreciation for cultural heritage.

For Africa, and particularly for Tanzania, this moment represents not just reflection, but reinvention. The global spices market is currently valued at over $20 billion, with projections indicating steady growth over the next four years, driven by rising demand for natural, plant-based products.

Within this, the global cloves market alone is valued between $5.7 and 6.1 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach $7.7 to 9.

6 billion by 20312033, expanding at an annual growth rate of approximately 5 percent. Despite being a major producer, Africa contributes only a modest share of the total market value–highlighting a significant gap between production and wealth creation.

This growth is being fuelled by five irreversible global shifts. First is the rise of health-conscious consumption, as consumers increasingly turn to natural and plant-based ingredients.

Second is the clean-label revolution, replacing synthetic additives with organic alternatives. Third is the expansion of wellness industries, including pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and aromatherapy.

Fourth is the rapid growth of wellness and wellbeing tourism, and finally, the resurgence of cultural tourism, where authenticity and heritage are central to consumer experiences. Cloves sit at the intersection of all these trends.

With antioxidant levels of approximately 290,000 ORAC units, they are among the most potent functional spices in the world, widely used in medicine, oral care, and health supplements. Today, the food industry accounts for over 49 percent of total clove consumption, but demand is rising sharply in pharmaceuticals, personal care products such as toothpaste and oils, and functional foods and beverages.

Globally, the Asia-Pacific region dominates both production and consumption, accounting for more than 46 percent of the cloves market. However, Africa is now the fastest-growing region, signalling a shift in global dynamics.

Countries such as Tanzania, Madagascar, and Comoros remain among the world’s primary producers, yet they capture only a fraction of the value due to longstanding structural challenges. These challenges are well known: the continued export of raw cloves with minimal processing; vulnerability to global price volatility; limited industrialisation and product diversification; weak branding and market positioning; and fragmented smallholder farming systems.

In addition, Africa has yet to fully capitalise on emerging sectors such as wellness tourism and spice-based cultural experiences. Within these challenges lies immense potential.

Africa possesses a unique combination of agro-ecological advantage, cultural authenticity, and largely untapped value chains. Nowhere is this more evident than in Tanzania.

For nearly 200 years, Zanzibar, widely known as the “Spice Islands”, has been central to the global cloves story. Since the introduction of large-scale spice cultivation in 1821, the islands have built a reputation as one of the world’s leading exporters of premium cloves.

By the 20th century, Zanzibar had become synonymous with quality in the global spice trade. Despite this legacy, Tanzania today still exports primarily raw cloves, with limited penetration into high-value derivatives such as essential oils, extracts, and nutraceutical products.

The absence of a strong pharmaceutical manufacturing base further limits the country’s ability to benefit from the rapidly expanding global demand for plant-based medicine. This is the strategic opportunity that the Africa Women in Spices (AWIS) initiative seeks to unlock.

AWIS envisions repositioning Tanzania and Africa as a global processing hub, a continental centre for spice innovation and excellence, and a world leader in ethical, women-led spice value chains. Central to this vision is the establishment of a global spices cultural centre, including a Spices Museum and Living Laboratory, to preserve the 200 year heritage while driving research and innovation.

A key pillar of this transformation is the wellness and preventive health revolution. Cloves and other spices offer significant potential in anti-inflammatory treatments, immunity-boosting supplements, and natural health products.

By investing in processing and research, Africa will move beyond raw exports to capture high-margin segments in pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals. Women already form the backbone of spice cultivation across Africa, but they remain underrepresented in ownership, processing, financing, and export leadership.

The Africa Women in Spices movement aims to address this imbalance by organising women into cooperatives and enterprises, supporting inclusive industrialisation, and enabling them to lead innovation in value-added products. With a global market growing steadily at around 5 percent annually, rising demand for natural and health-oriented products, and Africa’s unique cultural and agricultural strengths, the continent is well positioned to lead the next phase of the global spice industry.

For Tanzania, the path forward is clear. By shifting from the export of raw cloves to the export of innovation, identity, and value-added products, the country can reclaim its leadership in the global spice economy.

And at the heart of this transformation must be African women. These are the ones to not only sustain the industry, but redefine it.

The next 200 years of spices in Africa will not be written by chance. They will be designed–through vision, investment, and inclusive leadership.

If that vision is realised, Africa will move from being a supplier of raw materials to a global powerhouse of wealth creation, innovation, and cultural influence. .

Dar es Salaam. In a judiciary historically dominated by men, Regional Magistrate Sara Omar Hafidh is redefining leadership on the bench in Zanzibar; her rise from a young law student to one of the region’s most respected judicial officers is a personal triumph.

It is also a symbol of change within the legal profession. Her presence reflects shifting tides.

It signals growing space for women in positions of judicial authority. She began her legal journey at Zanzibar University, where she earned a Bachelor of Law and Sharia.

From the outset, she showed strong academic discipline. She was equally committed to public service.

Studying both civil law and Sharia gave her a deep understanding of Zanzibar’s legal structure. It prepared her to work within a system shaped by statutory law, religion and custom.

Determined to expand her perspective, she pursued an LLM in Jurisprudence specialising in Cybercrime at Beijing Normal University. There, she explored emerging legal challenges linked to technology and transnational crime.

She later completed a Master’s in Human Rights and Democratisation in Africa at the Centre for Human Rights, based at the University of Pretoria. This experience strengthened her grounding in constitutionalism and regional human rights systems.

These academic achievements gave her a dual lens. One lens was rooted in local legal traditions.

The other was shaped by international human rights standards. Together, they formed the backbone of her judicial reasoning.

They also shaped her commitment to gender equality within the justice system. “I began my career in private practice as a legal officer and advocate before joining the public sector as a State Attorney and Public Prosecutor, serving for over six and a half years.

During this period, I handled high-profile criminal and economic cases and focused particularly on violence against women and girls,” she recalls. Her years as a prosecutor were intense.

They were also formative. She worked directly with survivors of gender-based violence.

She saw the fear many carried into courtrooms. She observed how stigma and intimidation could silence victims.

She encountered evidentiary gaps that complicated prosecutions. These experiences shaped her deeply.

They formed her judicial philosophy. Justice must be impartial.

It must be evidence-based. But it must also recognise vulnerability.

It must respond to social realities. It must protect dignity without compromising fairness.

That philosophy now defines her courtroom. As a Regional Magistrate in the Judiciary of Zanzibar, Sara presides over a wide range of criminal matters.

She applies legal rigour in every case. She also leads with empathy.

In cases involving gender-based violence, she adopts trauma-informed approaches. She ensures survivors are not re-traumatised during testimony.

She explains procedures clearly. She maintains a strict courtroom order.

She prevents intimidation. She upholds privacy safeguards where necessary.

At the same time, she protects the rights of the accused. She grounds her decisions in statutory provisions.

She relies on evidence. She references constitutional guarantees.

She aligns her reasoning with international human rights principles. For her, gender sensitivity and impartiality are not opposites.

They work together. They strengthen justice.

“A major milestone in her career was co-authoring the 2023 Gender Bench Book on Women’s Rights for Judges and Magistrates in Zanzibar. The bench book created a structured guide for gender-responsive judicial practice.

It addressed inconsistencies in rulings. It clarified standards in cases involving women and children.

It strengthened responses to gender-based violence. It promoted uniform interpretation of rights,” she said.

The publication has since become an important judicial tool. Magistrates and judges rely on it for guidance, reinforces constitutional protections and encourages gender-sensitive reasoning.

As a law school trainer, Sara integrates the bench book into her teaching. She mentors emerging lawyers.

She encourages them to internalise human rights standards early. She prepares them to carry forward gender-responsive justice.

Her advocacy does not end at the courtroom door. She serves as Zanzibar Coordinator for the Tanzania Women Judges Association.

In that role, she promotes professional development for women in the judiciary. She organises workshops on Women’s Rights in Africa.

She supports training on Judicial Enforcement of Socio-Economic Rights. She helps women judicial officers strengthen subject-matter expertise.

She also supports structured mentorship programs. Young female lawyers receive guidance on leadership pathways.

They are encouraged to pursue specialisation. They are advised on balancing professional growth with public service.

Participation in initiatives such as the Women Leadership Program at the Uongozi Institute strengthens decision-making and executive skills. These programs build confidence.

They build competence. They prepare women for senior judicial roles.

Despite improvements, women remain underrepresented in higher judicial positions. Historical exclusion plays a role, societal expectations add pressure, professional and community responsibilities often compete.

Sara acknowledges these realities. She advocates for institutional reform, supports leadership training as part of career progression, encourages specialisation in areas such as Disability Rights and Socio-Economic Rights.

She believes preparation creates opportunity. One of her most delicate responsibilities involves navigating Zanzibar’s legal pluralism, customary norms, religious principles and statutory law often intersect.

These intersections can create tension. Sara approaches them carefully.

Her grounding in Sharia provides cultural fluency. Her human rights training ensures constitutional alignment.

She interprets statutes with sensitivity. She evaluates religious and customary arguments with caution.

She ensures that no interpretation undermines fundamental rights. For her, tradition has value.

It shapes identity. It guides communities.

But it cannot override constitutional protections. It cannot justify discrimination.

Especially not against women or children. This balance defines her judicial approach.

Mentorship remains central to her mission. “As a Regional Magistrate, I prioritise mentorship and integrity,” she says.

“The next generation of legal professionals — especially women — must pursue advanced expertise, communicate effectively and remain committed to social, economic and political advancement for women and children.” Looking ahead, Sara envisions a judiciary that is firm and fair.

She sees a system that responds decisively to gender-based violence. She imagines stronger protections for children’s rights.

She hopes for more women in leadership roles. She aims for efficiency, transparency and integrity in every court.

Her legacy, she believes, should go beyond judgments delivered. It should be measured in systems strengthened.

It should be seen in women promoted. It should be reflected in survivors treated with dignity.

Above all, it should ensure that the courtroom doors she has opened remain open — not temporarily, but permanently — for the generations of women who will follow. .

Dar es Salaam. The Dar es Salaam Gymkhana Club, in partnership with Mwananchi Communications Limited MCL, has taken a bold step to improve the environment by planting 600 trees within its premises as part of efforts to make the area more attractive while promoting environmental conservation.

The exercise took place last Saturday, bringing together club members and staff from Mwananchi Communications Limited who joined forces to ensure the success of the initiative. Guided by the powerful reminder that the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago and the second best time is now, participants embraced the activity with a shared sense of urgency and responsibility toward the environment.

Speaking during the event, the club’s General Manager, Lilian Msangi, said the main objective of the initiative is to enhance the club’s surroundings and make it a more appealing place for both members and visitors. She emphasized that the exercise is sustainable and will be conducted annually as part of the club’s culture of environmental conservation.

“We sincerely thank Mwananchi Communications Limited for being a key partner in making this initiative successful. It is something we are proud of.

We also appreciate all staff and members who actively participated,” said Msangi. On his part, the club’s Board management Chairman, Francis Kiwanga, noted that the club, which boasts a history of over 100 years, continues to improve its infrastructure and environment to meet modern demands.

Kiwanga added that tree planting has numerous benefits, including improving air quality by increasing oxygen levels, reducing environmental heat, preventing soil erosion, and supporting biodiversity. He further said that trees help mitigate the effects of climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide, making the club a safer and healthier place for people.

Speaking at the event, Mwananchi Communications Limited Head of Marketing, Corporate Affairs and Sustainability, Edson Sosten, said the company is proud to partner with the club in the initiative. “We are a purpose driven media organization guided by our mission of empowering the nation.

This means not only informing and educating the public but also taking responsibility for the impact we create in the communities and environment we serve,” he said. Sosten explained that as a media house, their work largely depends on paper, which creates a responsibility to give back to the environment.

“In collaboration with Dar es Salaam Gymkhana Club, the initiators of this commendable program, we are proud to plant 600 trees as part of our commitment to restoring what we use and contributing to a more sustainable future,” he said. He added that the initiative reflects the company’s belief that true empowerment goes beyond content and must be demonstrated through action.

According to him, the move creates a balance between development and responsibility, ensuring that as they lead conversations today, they also protect the future. “We extend our sincere gratitude to Dar es Salaam Gymkhana Club for leading these efforts, as well as all partners and stakeholders who made this initiative possible.

Together, we demonstrate that meaningful and sustainable impact is achieved through collaboration,” he said. He added that as MCL continues its journey toward becoming a more digitally driven media institution, it remains committed to reducing its environmental footprint, promoting sustainable practices, and using its platforms to inspire collective action.

“Because at MCL, empowering the nation also means protecting it for future generations.” .

Dar es Salaam. The Controller and Auditor General (CAG), Mr Charles Kichere, has revealed that 22 out of 54 public institutions, equivalent to 41 percent, continue to operate at a loss due to unproductive investments, high operating costs, and weak internal control systems.

Presenting the audit report for the 2024/25 financial year in Parliament on Friday, April 10, 2026, the CAG said the situation is also driven by the institutions’ limited capacity to generate internal revenue and their heavy reliance on government subsidies, a trend that threatens long-term financial sustainability. Data show an increase in loss-making institutions from 37 percent (19 out of 52) in 2023/24 to 41 percent (22 out of 54) in 2024/25, with total losses reaching Sh307.1 billion.

“The main reasons for the continued rise in these losses are poor performance, low returns on investment, and weak expenditure controls,” he said. The report highlights several institutions leading in losses, including Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC), Air Tanzania Company Limited, UDART, Mkulazi, National Ranching Company (NARCO), Tanzania Biotech Products Limited, Tanzania Geothermal Development Company (TGDC), TTCL Pesa, Keko Pharmaceutical Industries, Tanapa Investment, STAMIGOLD, and the University of Dar es Salaam Computing Centre (UCC).

According to the report, Air Tanzania recorded the highest loss at Sh191.19 billion, up from Sh91.79 billion the previous year, despite receiving a subsidy of Sh114 billion. “TRC also continued to face efficiency challenges, while UDART recorded a loss of Sh15.78 billion.

Freight volumes on the Central Railway Line declined from 302,714 tonnes to 246,824 tonnes, reducing revenue for the railway corporation,” the document reads in part. The report further notes that government subsidies increased significantly from Sh29.08 billion to Sh137 billion, but without delivering direct efficiency gains.

The CAG explained that the reduction in total losses from S12.31 billion to Sh307.10 billion was largely due to operational subsidies rather than improved performance. Additionally, the government invested Sh159.60 billion through development grants, but the CAG warned that such dependence has become a recurring burden instead of a sustainable solution.

The report also shows that 49 institutions have liquidity ratios ranging between 0.00 and 0.

98, indicating an inability to meet short-term obligations. Sixteen non-commercial public entities have continued operating under financial deficits for more than a year.

Meanwhile, wasteful expenditure in 16 institutions stood at Sh117.62 billion, a 68 percent decrease compared to the previous year. However, irregular expenditure rose to Sh8.56 billion, involving payments that did not comply with laws, contracts, and accounting standards.

For Air Tanzania, the challenges were linked to high aircraft maintenance costs, salaries, leasing expenses, low passenger volumes on some routes, and stiff competition in the international market. The CAG warned that without meaningful efficiency reforms, public institutions will continue to burden the government and increase the risk of economic instability.

To address the situation, he recommended fast-tracking the development and implementation of risk management systems and anti-fraud policies. He also advised the establishment of risk registers to identify, monitor, and mitigate risks, alongside conducting regular assessments and reporting to internal boards of directors to ensure accountability and strengthen the performance of public institutions.

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Kenyan singer-songwriter Nadia Mukami has sparked conversation across East Africa’s entertainment scene after opening up about what she described as her “worst collaboration”, a project with a Tanzanian artiste that, by her own account, reduced her to tears. Speaking in a candid moment that has since gone viral on social media, the Radio Love hitmaker revealed that the experience was particularly difficult, though she chose not to name the artiste involved.

“Nililia, alitutesa,” she said, hinting at a strained creative process and challenging working conditions behind the scenes. Her remarks have quickly set off speculation among fans, especially given her strong track record of cross-border hits with Tanzanian stars such as Phina, Marioo, Maua Sama, Darassa and others, collaborations that have largely been well received.

She has also worked with Rosa Ree on ‘Criminal Lover’, a track that fuses rap with melodic Afro-pop, as well as collaborations with Rayvanny on ‘Falling in Love’ and ‘Nimeumia’, both exploring romantic and emotional themes. While Mukami did not go into specifics, her comments shine a light on the often unseen realities of the music business, where artistic differences, tight schedules and management dynamics can complicate even the most promising partnerships.

So far, no Tanzanian artiste has publicly responded, but the conversation her comments have ignited continues to ripple through the industry, raising fresh questions about professionalism, creative control and the realities of cross-border music collaborations. .

Dar es Salaam. While the Controller and Auditor General (CAG), Mr Charles Kichere, has identified gaps and issued recommendations in the 2024/25 audit reports, he has also highlighted poor implementation of recommendations made in previous years, with some remaining unaddressed for up to 19 years.

The CAG report tabled in Parliament on Friday, April 10, 2026, shows that out of 10,391 recommendations issued to 225 public entities and institutions, only 35 percent have been fully implemented, while 47 percent are still in progress. “Sixteen percent have not been implemented or have recurred, and 2 percent are obsolete,” the report states.

He noted that this leaves 63 percent of recommendations incomplete, reflecting delays in corrective actions and weak accountability discipline within public institutions. CAG Kichere said some institutions have left recommendations unaddressed for more than 17 years, including the Export Processing Zones Authority (EPZA), the Marine Parks and Reserves Unit, the Tanzania Cashew Board, the Tanzania Shipping Company (Tashico), and the National Examinations Council of Tanzania (Necta).

Within these institutions, challenges such as asset ownership, unpaid debts, uncollected revenue, and weaknesses in internal control systems have continued to recur without permanent solutions. Despite this, the report shows that out of 225 audit opinions issued, 221–equivalent to 98 percent, were unqualified, three were qualified, and one institution received a disclaimer of opinion.

Institutions that received qualified opinions include the Tanzania Cashew Board, Keko Pharmaceutical Industries, and the Tanzania Tea Board, while the KyelaKasumulu Water Supply and Sanitation Authority received no audit opinion. However, the CAG warned that clean audit opinions are not a direct measure of good performance, noting the existence of weaknesses in governance, procurement, revenue management, and internal control systems.

At the same time, the CAG noted in the Central Government audit report that some audit queries and related recommendations from previous years have remained unresolved for extended periods, with some persisting for up to 19 years, reflecting weaknesses in follow-up systems and delays in implementing corrective measures. He further observed that where such weaknesses persist despite changes in accounting officers, management teams, or institutional leadership, the deficiencies are institutional rather than individual, pointing to systemic control challenges rather than isolated administrative shortcomings.

CAG Kichere said that at the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), Sh17.8 million arising from dishonoured collection cheques has remained outstanding for 19 years (since 2006/07), pending approval from the Accountant General. Similarly, Sh50.6 million relating to imported goods remains unresolved for 19 years (since 2006/07), pending completion of procedures and documentation required for write-off in the financial statements.

For the 2008/09 financial year, Sh7.24 billion in tax arrears remains unpaid after 17 years. For 2010/11, Sh1.25 billion in tax arrears and Sh281.99 million in assessed taxes are still under verification or appeal after 15 years, with management required to provide supporting evidence and resolve disputes before the Tax Revenue Appeals Board.

Likewise, in the Immigration Department (Vote 93, 2007/08), S0.84 million in unbanked revenue has remained unresolved for 18 years, with management awaiting Treasury approval to write it off as a bad debt following the death of the responsible officer in 2011. “I recommend that the government, through the Accountant General and relevant accounting officers, establish a structured mechanism for implementing the Controller and Auditor General’s recommendations and the directives of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) in order to strengthen follow-up on audit recommendations and ensure timely implementation of audit queries and PAC directives,” the CAG stated. .

Arusha. Export expansion has emerged as the main driver of economic growth in the East African Community (EAC), pushing the bloc’s international merchandise trade to $42.4 billion in the fourth quarter of 2025, up from $40.3 billion recorded in the previous quarter.

According to the latest quarterly statistics report released by the EAC Secretariat, imports rose by 15.4 percent to $79.6 billion, while exports surged by 37.7 percent to $77.0 billion during the OctoberDecember 2025 period. “This development resulted in a sharp reduction in the trade deficit to $2.5 billion, down from $13.0 billion in 2024,” the report states, underscoring an improved external trade position for the region.

Trade within Africa also recorded strong growth, rising by 40.1 percent to $39.0 billion, representing 25.2 percent of total trade. Intra-EAC trade expanded by 28.0 percent to $19.3 billion, reflecting continued progress in trade facilitation and deeper economic integration among Partner States.

Mineral commodities remained the leading export category, particularly copper, alongside precious metals and gemstones. Agricultural exports such as coffee, tea and spices continued to play a key role in supporting export earnings and rural livelihoods across the region.

On the global stage, China maintained its position as the EAC’s largest trading partner, followed by the United Arab Emirates, South Africa, India, Japan and the United States. Imports were largely driven by energy products, machinery and manufactured goods, supporting industrial production, infrastructure development and consumer demand.

“The stronger growth in exports relative to imports, together with the narrowing trade deficit, underscores a positive trajectory towards sustainable economic growth and deeper regional integration,” the report added. Inflationary pressures across the region showed signs of easing towards the end of 2025. Annual headline inflation declined to 13.3 per cent in December 2025, down from 15.2 per cent in November, and significantly lower than 27.1 percent recorded in December 2024. However, average annual inflation for 2025 rose to 22.9 per cent, compared with 13.6 percent in 2024, largely driven by persistently high inflation in South Sudan and Burundi.

Core inflation, which excludes food and energy prices, fell to 9.6 percent in December 2025 from 12.0 percent in November, indicating easing underlying price pressures.

Growth in broad money supply (M3) moderated to 14.7 percent year-on-year, supported by a 12.6 percent expansion in credit to the private sector, reflecting continued lending to businesses and households. Net foreign assets increased by 20.4 percent, signalling improved external financial stability across the region.

Arusha resident Federdaus Mosha emphasised the need for increased investment in trade infrastructure and economic opportunities to sustain the region’s growth momentum. “There is a need to expand financial inclusion, reduce cross-border trade barriers, and align financial systems with the economic realities of individual countries to ease business operations, especially for entrepreneurs,” he said.

He added that such measures would be critical in unlocking further growth and ensuring the EAC continues to record stronger economic gains in the years ahead. .

Wizkid publicly blasted Burna Boy over an alleged physical altercation involving Wizkid’s official DJ, Michael Babatunde Adeyinka, known as DJ Tunez. The incident, which has gone viral across social media platforms, has sparked fierce reactions from fellow artistes, industry bodies, and fans alike.

The controversy stems from a reported disagreement between Burna Boy and DJ Tunez at Obi’s House, a popular weekly nightlife event in Lagos. According to circulating eyewitness videos and posts online, what began as a verbal exchange escalated into a physical scuffle.

DJ Tunez later confirmed in a series of social media posts that he was hit from behind and outnumbered during the clash. He also hinted that he expected his “oga” (boss) to intervene but had to fend for himself, emphasising the intensity of the encounter.

Wizkid weighed in on social media, sharply criticising Burna Boy for allegedly instigating the confrontation and attacking DJ Tunez with the help of multiple associates. In his posts, Wizkid described Burna Boy as a “coward” and mocked the incident, saying the altercation showed the rapper’s reliance on numbers rather than courage.

In a viral video posted online, Burna Boy responded directly to Wizkid’s criticisms, challenging him to a physical confrontation. Speaking in Pidgin English, he said, “Wizkid comes and goes, and he is tweeting.

Na internet, their own power dey. In real life, our own power is there.

I thought DJ Tunez would go call his oga, and his oga would do something or send people, but na tweet Wizkid con dey tweet.” Burna Boy also mocked DJ Tunez in a separate clip, dancing to a track with altered lyrics referencing the DJ’s nickname.

Despite the virality of these clips, Burna Boy’s management has yet to release an official statement addressing the incident. Meanwhile, DJ Tunez confirmed the altercation on his own social media channels, explaining that he was attacked from behind and had to defend himself.

He expressed frustration over the situation and thanked fans for supporting him during the ordeal, highlighting how the event has affected him personally and professionally. The Nigerian DJ Association (NDJ) swiftly responded, announcing a temporary suspension of Burna Boy’s music from DJs’ playlists nationwide.

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Dar es Salaam. Tanzania Mainland Premier League giants Simba and Azam FC failed to close the gap on defending champions Young Africans (Yanga) after both sides were held to goalless draws in matches played today at different venues.

Simba were frustrated by TRA United in a barren draw at the Sheikh Amri Abeid Stadium in Arusha, while Azam FC also settled for a 0-0 result against Mbeya City at the Tanzanite Kwaraa Stadium in Manyara Region. The results leave Simba in second place with 36 points from 17 matches, still trailing leaders Yanga, who have amassed 44 points from 18 matches.

TRA United remain seventh with 24 points from 18 outings. Azam FC stay third with 34 points after 18 matches, while Mbeya City sit 12th with 17 points.

The stalemates handed Yanga a significant advantage in the title race, stretching their lead to eight points ahead of Simba and 10 ahead of Azam FC. The gap places the Jangwani Street giants in a comfortable position at the top of the standings as the season heads into a crucial phase.

Even if Simba win their upcoming fixtures, including a direct clash against Yanga, they would still face a points deficit, underlining the magnitude of the task ahead. In Arusha, the Simba-TRA United match started at a quick pace, with both teams showing attacking intent from the opening whistle.

Simba were the first to threaten, creating early chances that highlighted their desire to take control. However, poor finishing let them down, with Anicet Oura twice firing wide from promising positions just outside the box.

Simba continued to press, and Seleman Mwalimu came close to breaking the deadlock, only to see his powerful effort crash against the goalpost. The missed chances allowed TRA United to grow into the contest and respond with attacks of their own.

The hosts tested Simba’s defence with quick transitions and forward runs, creating two clear chances but failing to convert. They thought they had taken the lead in the 37th minute when Valentine Nouma scored, but the goal was ruled out for offside.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with both teams pushing forward but lacking the clinical edge in front of goal. In the end, neither side could find a breakthrough, settling for a share of the points.

For Simba and Azam FC, the dropped points could prove costly in the title race, while Yanga continue to strengthen their grip at the summit. .