Category: The Citizen

Kampala. The East African Development Bank has unveiled a $13 million fund targeting women and youth-led businesses across East Africa, as the regional lender also announced changes in its top leadership.

According to the bank statement, the new facility, announced during the bank’s Governing Council meeting in Kampala, is aimed at expanding access to finance for enterprises led by women and young entrepreneurs through partner financial institutions across member states. The initiative forms part of EADB’s 20242028 Strategic Plan, which focuses on promoting inclusive and sustainable economic development in the region.

The announcement came as the bank reported a strong financial performance for the year ended December 2025, with profit before tax rising by 51 percent to $16.93 million from $11.20 million recorded in the previous year. Loan disbursements also increased sharply by 140 percent, while outstanding loans rose by 52 percent at the close of the financial year, reflecting stronger lending activity and improved operational performance.

Outgoing Governing Council chairperson and Uganda’s Minister for Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Mr Matia Kasaija, said the performance demonstrated the bank’s growing capacity to mobilise resources and finance projects across strategic sectors in member states. “This strong performance is a testament to EADB’s enhanced capacity to mobilise resources and deploy innovative financing solutions.

In the past year, we supported a more diverse range of projects across key sectors in our member states,” he said. He added that the bank remained committed to implementing its five-year strategic plan while expanding its investment portfolio and deepening its development impact across the region.

Mr Kasaija said the newly established fund underscored the bank’s recognition of the role played by women and young people in driving economic growth and innovation in East Africa. “We recognise that youth and women are critical drivers of economic growth and innovation across East Africa.

The establishment of this fund is a strategic step towards scaling enterprises led by these groups through prudent and targeted financing,” he said. According to him, a significant share of the fund will be financed through the bank’s profits, while management has also been tasked with mobilising additional resources from development partners to ensure sustainability and broaden its reach.

The meeting brought together senior government officials and members of the EADB Board of Directors from member states, including Rwanda’s Minister for Finance and Economic Planning, Yusuf Murangwa, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for the National Treasury and Economic Planning, John Mbadi, and Tanzania’s Minister for Finance, Khamis Mussa Omar. The session also marked leadership changes within the institution in line with the bank’s charter.

Mr Murangwa was confirmed as the new chairperson of the Governing Council, succeeding Mr Kasaija, while Uganda’s Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Ramathan Ggoobi, was appointed chairperson of the Board of Directors for a two-year term. He replaces Tanzania’s Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Finance, Dr Natu Mwamba.

Established in 1967 under the Treaty for East African Cooperation, EADB was mandated to provide financial and technical assistance to projects that contribute to the region’s socio-economic development. The institution was later re-established under a new Charter in 1980, expanding its mandate to offer broader financial services aimed at supporting regional integration and economic growth.

Today, the bank is jointly owned by Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Rwanda, alongside development finance and commercial institutions, and continues to play a key role in financing regional development projects. .

Dar es Salaam. The Tanzania Agricultural Development Bank has launched a new green financing strategy aimed at helping farmers and agribusinesses adapt to the growing effects of climate change through increased access to climate-resilient agricultural financing.

The Green Agri-Finance Strategy 20252027 seeks to support environmentally sustainable farming practices while strengthening food production, livelihoods and environmental protection across the country. The initiative comes when many farmers in Tanzania continue to grapple with unpredictable rainfall, prolonged dry spells and floods that have disrupted agricultural production and reduced incomes.

Speaking during the launch, Minister of State in the Vice President’s Office (Union and Environment), Hamad Yussuf Masauni, said climate change remains a major threat to agriculture, food security, water resources and livelihoods. He noted that financial institutions have a critical role to play in helping farmers adapt to changing climatic conditions.

“Sustainable agriculture and environmental protection must go hand in hand,” he said, adding that financial institutions have a responsibility to support investments that enable farmers to continue producing food while protecting the environment for future generations. Mr Masauni commended TADB for integrating environmental sustainability into agricultural financing, saying the move supports government efforts to build a resilient and sustainable economy.

He also stressed the importance of collaboration among the government, banks, development partners, researchers, civil society organisations and the private sector in addressing climate financing challenges. “Building a strong agriculture sector requires cooperation, practical solutions and sustainable financing,” he said.

TADB Managing Director Frank Nyabundege said the bank’s new strategy is intended to help farmers and agribusinesses sustain production despite increasing climate-related risks. “As an agricultural development bank, we remain committed to supporting farmers and agribusinesses across the country.

Through this strategy, we want to increase financing for projects that improve food production, protect the environment and improve people’s livelihoods,” he said. Under the strategy, the bank plans to finance projects involving irrigation, renewable energy, water conservation, sustainable livestock keeping, fisheries and environmentally friendly farming technologies.

Agriculture remains the backbone of Tanzania’s economy, supporting millions of livelihoods, but warned that changing weather patterns continue to affect productivity in many regions. Mr Nyabundege noted that the strategy builds on the bank’s decade-long experience in agricultural financing and responding to evolving needs within the sector.

According to him, TADB has disbursed more than Sh1.42 trillion in loans over the past 10 years, including about Sh67 billion directed towards projects linked to climate-related challenges. The bank said the financing has benefited more than 2.

6 million smallholder farmers and supported over 812 agribusinesses operating across various agricultural value chains. Mr Nyabundege also acknowledged support from President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration in strengthening the bank’s operations and expanding financing to the agricultural sector.

He said partnerships would remain essential in ensuring successful implementation of the strategy. “We will continue working closely with the government, development partners and other stakeholders to support programmes that help farmers cope with climate change,” he said.

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By Anna Tibaijuka Last week I explained why Tanzania remains underinsured and why insurance penetration is still very low. The key message was simple: we are living with high risks but very little protection.

Today I am address a widespread misunderstanding that is quietly damaging the insurance sector: The belief that insurance companies have unlimited money. This belief is not correct–and if it continues, it will undermine the entire system.

Insurance companies do not create money. The funds used to pay claims come from premiums paid by ordinary people: workers, farmers, traders, and business owners.

In simple terms, insurance is a pool of money contributed by the public to support those who suffer losses. It is not free money.

It is shared money. Insurance works on a simple principle: many people contribute small amounts so that the few who suffer losses can be compensated.

For example, if 1,000 people contribute Sh100,000 each, the total fund becomes Sh100 million. If only a few people suffer accidents, the fund is sufficient to compensate them.

This system works because not everyone suffers loss at the same time. It is based on what economists call high risk but low probability.

Events such as accidents, illness, fire, and death are serious, but they do not happen to everyone at once. This allows risks to be shared across many people.

However, the system depends on balance. It cannot work if claims become too many, too large, or exaggerated.

No system can pay out more than what it collects. In Tanzania today, we are seeing a growing problem of unrealistic claims.

Some claimants expect very large compensation, sometimes hundreds of millions of shillings, regardless of the level of insurance cover. This is especially common in third-party motor accident claims.

There is an important distinction that must be understood. A court may award compensation based on the damage suffered.

But an insurance policy pays only up to the limit agreed in the contract. If the policy limit is Sh100 million and the court awards Sh300 million, the insurer will pay only Sh100 million.

The remaining amount may be the responsibility of the vehicle owner or driver. This distinction between legal liability and insurance liability is not well understood, and this misunderstanding is creating unrealistic expectations, prolonged court disputes, and pressure on the insurance system.

If insurance is treated as if it has unlimited capacity, the consequences will be serious. Premiums will rise, insurance will become unaffordable, companies may withdraw from the market, and fewer people will be insured.

Ultimately, it is the public who will suffer. There is therefore a need for greater understanding of insurance principles within the legal system.

Courts, lawyers, and claimants need to appreciate that insurance is a contract-based system with defined limits. It is not an open-ended compensation mechanism.

Another challenge is what economists call moral hazard. This occurs when people take advantage of insurance because they believe someone else will always pay.

It can lead to exaggeration of claims, careless behaviour, and even fraud. This weakens the system for everyone.

Many people also rely on third-party claims after accidents instead of protecting themselves. This is risky.

Third-party claims take time, may be disputed, and may not be fully paid. That is why individuals should consider taking personal insurance, such as health insurance, personal accident insurance, and life insurance.

These provide direct and reliable protection. Insurance is not just a business.

It is a collective system of protection. When one person is compensated, the money comes from others.

Therefore, excessive or unrealistic claims affect all contributors. The way forward is clear.

Tanzania needs stronger public education on how insurance works, better training within the legal system, control of fraud and exaggerated claims, and greater promotion of personal insurance products. Insurance companies are not unlimited sources of money.

They are custodians of funds contributed by the public. If the system is misunderstood or misused, it will become expensive, shrink, or fail.

But if it is respected and properly managed, it will protect society. Next week I will examine how Tanzania can build a strong, inclusive, and sustainable insurance sector for the future.

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Dar es Salaam. Rising numbers of Tanzanians being diagnosed with depression have raised concern among experts, who link the trend to economic pressure, changing social structures and limited access to mental health services.

Government data presented in Parliament on May 11 show that 1,709 people were screened for mental health conditions between July 2025 and March 2026. Of these, 1,362 were diagnosed with depression and placed on treatment. Health Minister Mohamed Mchengerwa told lawmakers that the figures reflect ongoing community screening and early intervention efforts aimed at improving mental health care.

He said the government has also expanded training for health workers to improve early identification and management of mental health conditions, with a focus on community-level care. Despite these efforts, specialists say the numbers point to a growing but largely under-recognised mental health challenge.

Sociologists and psychologists cite economic hardship, unemployment, family breakdown and social pressure as key drivers of depression, particularly among young people and urban residents. A sociologist at the University of Dar es Salaam, Ms Faudhia Mfaume, said financial strain and rising social expectations are contributing to emotional exhaustion.

“Many people are struggling to survive economically while meeting family and social demands. This creates pressure that can develop into depression,” she said.

She noted that weakening family and community support systems have left many individuals without traditional safety nets for coping with stress. Saint Augustine University of Tanzania (SAUT) sociologist Mr Alfani Mduge pointed to youth unemployment and prolonged job searches as major risk factors.

“Many young people spend years without stable income or employment, which leads to frustration and hopelessness,” he said. He also highlighted stigma around mental illness as a barrier to treatment, noting that some people still associate depression with spiritual causes.

SAUT lecturer Ms Linah Kabula said social media, relationship conflicts and loneliness are also contributing to emotional strain. “People compare their lives to unrealistic standards online, which increases feelings of inadequacy,” she said.

Clinical psychologist Dr Kelvin Kiberiti of Bugando Medical Centre said untreated stress is one of the main pathways to depression. “When stress is prolonged without support, it affects emotional stability and daily functioning,” he said.

He called for stronger mental health services at lower-level health facilities to improve access to care. At Muhimbili National Hospital, Dr Isaac Lema said substance abuse, financial pressure and family breakdown are increasingly linked to mental health cases.

“Mental health challenges are often connected to alcohol use, debt stress and unstable relationships,” he said. He urged integration of mental health services into general healthcare to improve early detection and treatment.

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Arusha. Change is taking shape within the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania (ELCT), which says it plans to convene a General Assembly before the end of this year to endorse its proposed new constitution.

The move follows a resolution reached on August 25, 2023, when 214 of the 248 delegates at the ELCT’s 21st General Assembly approved a proposal requiring all dioceses to operate under one unified constitution. If adopted, the reforms would abolish the existing 28 diocesan constitutions, which currently grant full autonomy to each diocese, and introduce a stronger central governance structure headed by a more powerful church leader.

On May 10, 2026, ELCT Secretary General Rogath Mollel said the church had been conducting an internal self-assessment to determine how effectively its systems were functioning and where improvements were required. Speaking during the installation service of the Secretary General of the Central Western Diocese at Tabora Town Parish Cathedral, Mr Mollel said the review had identified gaps requiring reform to enhance efficiency, church growth, and long-term sustainability.

He said one of the key recommendations from the process was the need to rewrite the church constitution, a reform initiative that has been ongoing for some time. “The Executive Council meeting held in April received a report showing that the process has now reached an advanced stage, and possibly before the end of this year we will have a constitutional assembly so that we can proceed to approve the new constitution after the views submitted by all dioceses have been endorsed,” he said.

“Our centres, and now the special Executive Council, will meet specifically for this purpose in July, and we expect a constitutional assembly to be held in September. We sincerely ask that this matter be placed in prayers and that people pray for this major task,” added Mr Mollel.

“Because once we have a strong and solid constitution, it will greatly help us avoid conflicts and also move faster and more efficiently as a church, which is the second largest in the world, and our operational system should reflect that as well,” he said. ELCT Karagwe Diocese Bishop, Dr Benson Bagonza, said church constitutions play an important role in guiding leadership in managing disputes when they arise.

“Regarding conflicts, ever since the early church of Jesus Christ after His departure, conflicts have never ended. Conflicts are not caused by the constitution.

They are part of church growth and challenge leadership to develop conflict resolution skills,” he said. “So no one should assume that one constitution will eliminate conflicts.

No conflict will end simply because of a constitution, but a constitution helps leadership manage conflicts whenever they arise,” added Dr Bagonza. “What I know is that what is coming in July and September is an improved church constitution.

Members of the constitutional committee travelled across all 28 dioceses and collected opinions on improving the constitution. That is what is coming,” he stressed.

Earlier in 2023 The approval of the proposal means the head of church will have authority to take disciplinary action against bishops and pastors who violate ethical standards. However, such powers will not be exercised unilaterally but through a constitutional organ to be established.

The framework is intended to address long-standing challenges in handling disputes and disciplinary matters across dioceses. Under the previous constitution, each diocese operated as a fully autonomous entity with its own decision-making structures, limiting the head of church’s ability to intervene in internal conflicts.

Under the proposed changes, each diocese will retain its bishop, assistant bishop, and governing organs, but these will operate under subsidiary regulations to be developed. Announcing the August 25, 2023, decision at Tumaini University Makumira (Tuma), outgoing ELCT Head of Church, Bishop Dr Fredrick Shoo, said 86 percent of delegates supported the proposal.

Dr Shoo, who also heads the Northern Diocese, said 252 delegates were expected, but 248 attended. Of these, 214 voted in favour, equivalent to 86 percent, while 36 voted against, representing 14 percent.

“No ballot was spoiled, and I am very pleased. It shows the maturity of delegates, and therefore our proposal has passed with 86 percent support, which is more than the required two-thirds majority,” he said.

Supporters of the changes ELCT lawyer Azaeli Mweteni said the proposed single constitution would replace all diocesan constitutions and strengthen church unity. “Legally, the 21st ELCT General Assembly has approved the process of establishing one church constitution, as a proposal was tabled to prepare a single constitution that will replace diocesan constitutions,” he said.

“This constitution is intended to strengthen the church so that it continues to remain united as originally intended,” added the lawyer. He stressed that while the reform would introduce operational changes, it would also enhance administrative systems, improve leadership structures, and strengthen accountability.

One delegate from the North Eastern Diocese, Dr Aneth Mnzava, said a single constitution would reinforce unity and strengthen the church’s governance structure. “The church is God’s representation on earth.

Our unity as a church reflects God’s will. A single constitution practically implements the concept of unity,” she said.

“Historically, the ELCT started with seven churches, later becoming seven dioceses, each with its own authority. But now there is a need for stronger central authority,” added Dr Mnzava.

“When we have one constitution, the ELCT will be clearly united from the top, and dioceses will implement decisions from the central structure. This will strengthen authority across the church,” she insisted.

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Dar es Salaam. Stakeholders have proposed stricter laws, public education and improved market planning to address growing concerns over noise pollution caused by loudspeakers in markets.

The proposals come after continued debate over the use of speakers and public address systems by traders seeking to attract customers in increasingly competitive business environments. While the noise has become common in many markets, concerns are mounting over its effects on public health, productivity and the business environment.

Mr Rajab Rajab from the Lawyers’ Environmental Action Team (Leat) said noise pollution was no longer limited to commercial centres, but had also spread to residential areas. He said the problem touches on constitutional rights because excessive noise affects people’s health and their right to live in a safe and clean environment.

“In markets, everyone is producing noise and it becomes harmful. There are laws regulating noise and they set standards that must be followed.

” Mr Rajab noted that noise levels differ according to location and time, with separate standards for residential and commercial areas during the day and at night. He called on local authorities and regulatory institutions to strengthen enforcement and install sound-monitoring systems in busy areas.

Lawyer John Mallya proposed that traders using loudspeakers should be required to obtain permits, similar to industries that must secure environmental clearance from the National Environment Management Council (NEMC). “What should happen is that when traders apply for business licences, there should also be conditions governing noise production,” he said.

Mr Mallya said that while it would be difficult to eliminate noise completely from markets, the use of loudspeakers should be regulated through clear legal frameworks. Ear specialist Salum Seif said the solution was not to ban market activities, but to regulate sound levels, organise safe use of speakers and enforce appropriate operating hours.

NEMC Legal Compliance manager Hamad Taimulu said the council was implementing a noise-control strategy for the 2025/26 financial year through public education, institutional cooperation and enforcement measures where necessary. “NEMC cannot control noise pollution alone without support from other institutions.

Public education is essential in addressing this challenge,” he said. Some traders have called for better regulation rather than an outright ban on loudspeakers.

Tandika Usangi Market traders secretary Muhrami Simba said traders should instead be educated on the proper use of sound equipment. “These devices are legally imported and taxed, so I do not see the government banning them completely.

What is needed is a proper system to ensure they do not become a nuisance,” he said. However, Kariakoo trader Andrea John argued that banning loudspeakers entirely was the only lasting solution.

“In the past, traders sold goods without these devices. People already have stress from daily life and when they come to the market they are met with more noise,” he said.

Psychologist Yisambi Mbuwi said people react differently to noisy environments depending on how their brains process sound and their personal experiences. He said excessive noise could contribute to stress, lack of concentration and fatigue, affecting productivity and mental wellbeing.

At the same time, he said authorities also have a responsibility to balance the interests of those who prefer quiet environments and those who thrive in noisy settings. Meanwhile, Temeke Municipal Director Jomary Satura said the municipality was constructing modern markets in Keko, Mbagala and Tandika as part of efforts to reduce disorderly trading and excessive noise.

“Once traders move into organised business spaces, these unnecessary noises will reduce significantly,” he said. Mr Satura added that the municipality preferred long-term planning solutions rather than confiscating speakers from traders.

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Water and Environment has also advised the government to fast-track amendments to environmental laws to grant NEMC stronger enforcement powers. Committee chairperson Jackson Kiswaga said limited institutional authority had weakened environmental management and coordination.

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Tanzania’s rapid digital transformation has opened up new opportunities across business, education, and government. As the nation embraces the benefits of an increasingly interconnected world, the importance of online privacy and cybersecurity has emerged as a critical discussion.

With expanding internet access and mobile connectivity, both individuals and institutions face new digital challenges that require proactive measures to safeguard sensitive data. The Evolving Digital Landscape in Tanzania The advent of digital technology in Tanzania has transformed the way people communicate, conduct business, and access services.

With a growing number of citizens coming online, issues related to data breaches, cyber fraud, and digital privacy have rapidly moved to the forefront. In urban areas, digital payment systems and e-governance initiatives are becoming increasingly familiar.

Yet, these advancements bring comparable risks; safeguarding personal and financial data is essential in a climate where cyber threats are continuously evolving. Both public and private sectors are investing in cybersecurity infrastructures, aiming to fortify the nation’s digital foundations.

Many local businesses now recognize that their online presence must be secure to build trust with customers. In response, experts emphasize stringent cybersecurity protocols and ethical data management practices that align with international standards.

Strategies for Enhancing Digital Security With the rising incidence of cyber-attacks, individuals and organizations are urged to adopt multiple layers of security. One practical approach involves using secure digital networks.

Providers offering reliable solutions, such as VPN servers, have played a notable role in protecting user data by encrypting communications and masking digital footprints. By routing internet traffic through secure channels, users can maintain a higher level of confidentiality and shield their sensitive information from unauthorized access.

In addition to technology-driven measures, building a culture of cybersecurity awareness is crucial. Regular training sessions for employees, updates on emerging threats, and collaboration with tech experts help organizations stay one step ahead of hackers.

Regular audits and vulnerability assessments also serve as essential practices for identifying and remedying security gaps in digital infrastructure. For individual users, adopting lifestyle habits that support digital safety is equally important.

These include using strong, unique passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and periodically reviewing privacy settings across online platforms. Such steps not only reduce the risk of unauthorized access but also cultivate a more informed digital community.

Government Initiatives and Regional Collaboration The role of government in ensuring cybersecurity has gained significant traction in Tanzania’s policy agenda. Recent initiatives have focused on developing national frameworks to protect public institutions and critical infrastructure from cyber threats.

Regulatory measures are gradually being put in place to require businesses to adhere to standardized cybersecurity practices and report incidents promptly. Regional collaboration is another key aspect of Tanzania’s journey towards a secure digital environment.

By working alongside neighboring countries and international partners, Tanzania leverages shared expertise to enhance cyber resilience. Collaborative efforts include joint cyber defense exercises, shared threat intelligence, and harmonized policies that support cross-border information exchange.

The adoption of such frameworks reinforces national efforts by aligning with best practices recognized worldwide, ensuring that Tanzanian initiatives remain both relevant and resilient against evolving threats. Empowering the Digital Citizen Empowering citizens with practical knowledge about digital security and online privacy is essential for long-term success in the digital era.

Media outlets, educational institutions, and community groups play a crucial role in disseminating clear and actionable information that encourages secure online behavior. Through community workshops and digital literacy campaigns, people are learning how to protect themselves, safeguard their online activities, and contribute to a robust national cybersecurity culture.

Furthermore, transparency in how personal data is managed by companies and public institutions is indispensable for fostering trust. Open dialogues about data protection practices and rights can demystify complex cybersecurity topics for the average citizen, making it easier for them to take the necessary steps to secure their digital lives.

As the digital landscape in Tanzania matures, the demand for increased accountability and transparency from service providers will likely intensify, prompting further improvements in data handling standards. Future Outlook and Practical Steps Tanzania’s digital future appears promising, buoyed by growing investments in technology and an evolving regulatory environment.

As cyber threats continue to diversify, developing innovative defense strategies will be essential. This includes not only leveraging advanced encryption technologies but also investing in research and development to stay ahead of potential vulnerabilities.

Practical steps for the future emphasize a joint approach where the state, private sector, and individual users share the responsibility of maintaining a secure digital ecosystem. It is crucial for companies to implement rigorous cybersecurity policies and for the government to further strengthen legal frameworks that deter cybercrime.

Public awareness will continue to be a pillar of cybersecurity, reinforcing the message that security investments are not solely a corporate responsibility but a collective one. The success of these initiatives will ultimately hinge on the willingness of all stakeholders to adapt to a rapidly changing digital environment.

In an era where information is both a valuable asset and a potential vulnerability, creating a sense of collective responsibility is paramount. Future policies and private-sector strategies will likely focus on integrating emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, to predict, detect, and mitigate cyber risks before they can have a significant impact.

In conclusion, Tanzania stands at a critical juncture as it harnesses the benefits of digital innovation while confronting the challenges of cybersecurity. Effective measures — from understanding digital threats and adopting secure digital practices to fostering governmental and regional cooperation — will define the nation’s resilience in the face of cybercrime.

The path forward is one marked by continuous learning, adaptability, and a commitment to online privacy that benefits every Tanzanian citizen. As the nation builds a more secure digital future, it is important for every individual and business to stay informed, remain vigilant, and contribute actively to a safer online environment.

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Dar es Salaam. Thousands of smallholder farmers growing rice, maize and beans are expected to benefit from subsidised farming equipment and improved storage facilities under a new partnership between Cooperative Bank Tanzania Plc (Coop Bank) and AGRA.

The two institutions yesterday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening food systems and reducing post-harvest losses in Tanzania. Under the agreement, farmers in key food value chains will access farming equipment and storage facilities at discounts of up to 30 percent below market prices.

The initiative is part of AGRA’s RE-GAIN Programme, which focuses on improving smallholder farmers’ access to Food Loss Reduction Solutions (FL-RS) while strengthening climate resilience and food security. The MoU was signed by AGRA Tanzania Country Director, Mr Vianey Rweyendela, and Coop Bank Managing Director, Mr Godfrey Ng’urah.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, Mr Ng’urah said the partnership aligns with the bank’s long-term commitment to agriculture, which accounts for nearly 60 percent of its loan portfolio. “Food security and sustainable financing are at the heart of our operations.

After months of engagement, we are pleased to formalise this partnership with AGRA,” he said. He added that the collaboration supports the bank’s ambition of reaching 10 million families by 2030, noting that agriculture remains the main source of livelihood for more than 80 percent of Tanzanians.

According to Mr Ng’urah, wider access to mechanisation and storage technologies will help farmers improve productivity, reduce food losses and increase household incomes. On his part, Mr Rweyendela said the partnership would encourage suppliers and manufacturers to adopt climate-smart technologies while improving post-harvest handling systems.

“Climate change impacts have intensified across many African countries, including Tanzania, resulting in more frequent and prolonged extreme weather events such as droughts, floods and heatwaves,” he said. He noted that repeated droughts continue to shorten growing seasons and reduce agricultural productivity, especially in vulnerable farming areas.

Mr Rweyendela said the RE-GAIN Programme seeks to strengthen climate resilience among smallholder farmers through increased adoption of food loss reduction technologies across seven African countries, including Tanzania. According to World Bank estimates, a one percent reduction in post-harvest losses in Sub-Saharan Africa could generate annual economic gains of about $40 million, with much of the benefit going directly to smallholder farmers.

A farmers’ representative, Mr Thompson Mwakibinga, said the programme comes at a time when many farmers continue to lose produce because of poor storage and post-harvest handling challenges. “This partnership will help reduce losses and improve farmers’ incomes by increasing the value of their produce,” he said.

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Dar es Salaam. The Aga Khan Hospital, Dar es Salaam has launched a Comprehensive Obesity Clinic aimed at providing multidisciplinary, medically supervised care for individuals struggling with weight management and related non-communicable diseases.

The facility is designed to offer structured, long-term treatment approaches that go beyond short-term weight loss interventions, focusing instead on sustainable health outcomes and prevention of obesity-related complications. The clinic brings together a team of specialists, including gastroenterologists, cardiologists, endocrinologists and nutritionists, working within a coordinated care pathway to ensure patients receive personalised treatment based on their health profiles.

Speaking at the launch on Tuesday May 12, 2026, a gastroenterologist at the hospital, Dr Masolwa Ngwanasayi, said obesity is closely linked to fatty liver disease and is often driven by underlying metabolic and digestive conditions that require comprehensive clinical assessment. He noted that effective treatment depends on identifying the root causes before determining the most suitable intervention for each patient.

Cardiologist Dr Nadeem Kassam highlighted the connection between obesity and cardiovascular diseases, warning that excess body weight significantly increases the risk of hypertension, coronary artery disease, heart failure and stroke. He said obesity often leads to early-onset cardiac complications and reduces heart efficiency over time, stressing that early intervention, routine screening and lifestyle modification are essential in preventing long-term cardiovascular damage.

Endocrinologist Dr Hanifa Mbithe said obesity is not merely a result of excess calorie intake but is deeply linked to complex hormonal and metabolic imbalances that influence appetite regulation and fat storage. She emphasised that effective management requires a medically guided, multidisciplinary approach that addresses underlying biological factors rather than relying on lifestyle changes alone.

Nutrition specialist Ms Louiza Shem noted that obesity is a multifactorial condition influenced by both individual behaviour and environmental factors, adding that long-term success depends on sustainable and realistic dietary practices. She said restrictive diets often fail, stressing the importance of balanced nutrition plans tailored to individual lifestyles, cultural preferences and food availability.

“Weight management is not about perfection; it is about lifelong progress,” she said. The clinic will offer a range of evidence-based treatment options, including medical therapy, intragastric balloon procedures, bariatric surgery and other supportive interventions.

Each patient will undergo a comprehensive evaluation to determine a personalised treatment plan. The hospital officials said the initiative reflects a broader commitment to preventive healthcare and the management of non-communicable diseases, which continue to rise in Tanzania and globally.

They noted that obesity is a complex medical condition linked to serious health risks, including diabetes and heart disease, and requires coordinated clinical care rather than isolated interventions. Many patients, they added, struggle with weight management despite repeated attempts, often due to lack of specialised medical guidance.

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Dar es Salaam. Simba SC will be aiming to keep their Mainland Premier League title hopes alive when they face resilient Mashujaa FC in a crucial 2025/2026 league encounter tomorrow, May 14, 2026 at the Lake Tanganyika Stadium from 4.

15pm. The Msimbazi Street giants head into the fixture under pressure to collect maximum points as the title race with defending champions Young Africans (Yanga) gathers momentum in the final stretch of the season.

According to the latest league standings, Simba sit second with 49 points from 22 matches, five points behind leaders Yanga, who have accumulated 54 points from the same number of games. Simba have enjoyed an impressive campaign, winning 14 matches, drawing seven and losing only once.

They have also been solid defensively after conceding just nine goals while scoring 39. However, with Yanga maintaining an unbeaten record so far this season, Simba know that any slip-up could further weaken their chances of reclaiming the title. The match is expected to be challenging as Mashujaa FC have emerged as one of the league’s most difficult sides to beat, especially at the Lake Tanganyika Stadium where they have built a strong reputation this season.

Mashujaa currently occupy ninth place in the standings with 26 points from 22 matches after recording five wins, 11 draws and six defeats. Although they are not among the title contenders, the Kigoma-based side have become known for frustrating stronger opponents, particularly on their home ground where several top teams have dropped valuable points.

Their disciplined defensive approach has seen them concede only 17 goals this season, one of the better defensive records among mid-table teams. Mashujaa will also be motivated by the need to climb further away from the relegation battle as the season approaches a decisive stage.

For Simba, today’s encounter offers another opportunity to reduce pressure in the title race before Yanga play their next fixture. The Reds have recently shown consistency in attack, with their forward line continuing to produce important goals in tight matches.

A victory would not only keep Simba firmly in the championship conversation but also increase pressure on leaders Yanga, who remain unbeaten with 16 wins and six draws. Simba’s technical bench is expected to approach the game cautiously, aware that Mashujaa’s strong home form at Lake Tanganyika Stadium could complicate matters.

Football analysts believe the outcome of today’s match could play a significant role in shaping the direction of the title race as every point becomes increasingly important. While Simba are targeting the championship, Mashujaa will be eager to protect their impressive home record and prove once again that they can compete strongly against the league’s traditional giants.

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