Category: The Citizen

Arusha. Shock gripped the Court of Appeal as Yusuph Nguku faced judges after his appeal against a death sentence for murdering his six-year-old daughter was dismissed.

In a warning statement admitted as evidence, Mr Nguku confessed that he and his accomplice (not appellant) took his daughter, Rose Yusuph, to Lusesa village in Mwasanga Forest. Upon reaching the forest, Mr Nguku strangled her from behind while the accomplice held her.

He then severed her left hand and left foot, placing them in a black nylon bag. Mr Nguku said the accomplice had persuaded him to remove parts of Rose’s body to aid in running a business, promising Sh5 million in return.

Both Mr Nguku and the accomplice were charged at Mbeya High Court with murder under Sections 196 and 197 of the Penal Code, relating to an incident on May 3, 2019, in Lusesa village, Mbarali District, Mbeya Region. On Tuesday, February 17, 2026, a three-judge panel of the Court of Appeal, including Rehema Kerefu, Lucia Kairo, and Dr Deo Nangela, dismissed criminal appeal 920/2023, upholding the death penalty by hanging.

The judges held that circumstantial evidence, together with Mr Nguku’s warning statement, proved his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. How it happened Mr Nguku was originally sentenced on December 5, 2023, by the Mbeya High Court.

Third prosecution witness, Schola Chafumbwe, testified before the court that she and Mr Nguku married in 2007 and had four children by 2019. Due to marital conflict, she had left with the lastborn, leaving the other three children, including the deceased. She said on May 3, 2019, Mr Nguku reported Rose missing through her brother.

First witness, Mr Hebron Mwangomale, recalled seeing Mr Nguku selling items by the roadside with a young girl that day. Mr Nguku identified himself as from Igurusi Village and later Mbalizi, where he stayed with Rose in a guesthouse before renting a room in Mr Sanga’s house, but on May 4, he reported the girl missing.

The fourth witness said that on May 9, Mr Nguku brought a photo of Rose (the deceased) to the police station, and on May 10, claimed to have found her buried near Rombo Bar. He remained silent when asked how he identified the site, but asked a second witness to accompany him.

Local leaders and relatives were informed, and the group recovered a plastic bag containing body parts. The first witness said Mr Nguku reportedly told him, “Blood is heavier than water,” before police arrested him.

Mr Nguku admitted during questioning that he committed the crime with his accomplice, who persuaded him to remove parts of the child’s body. Though initially released for insufficient evidence, police later rearrested him.

The eighth witness conducted a post-mortem, confirming that the left hand and foot had been severed and that the body was partially decomposed. Mr Nguku admitted his marriage and separation from Ms Chafumbwe and claimed that on May 2, 2019, he took Rose (the deceased) to Mbalizi to buy beans; but upon returning, she was missing.

He denied leading police to the crime scene, saying officers directed the recovery, and denied prior knowledge of the second accused. The second accused claimed he was arrested on May 10, 2019, and denied any involvement with Mr Nguku or the deceased.

Court verdict The High Court found Mr Nguku guilty, relying heavily on his warning statement. Appeal and decision Mr Nguku’s appeal raised six grounds, including alleged misuse of his statement.

The Court of Appeal rejected all, noting the reliability of circumstantial evidence. Judge Kerefu observed that no one directly witnessed the murder, but the court relied on Nguku’s warning statement, oral admissions, and the fact that he was last seen with Rose.

Citing prior case law, the judgment concluded that Mr Nguku’s guilt was proven beyond a doubt. “Considering all circumstances, the court is confident that the case against Mr Nguku was proven beyond any doubt,” the judgment posted on the Judiciary Portal stated.

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Dar es Salaam. Bongo Flava veteran Joseph Haule, popularly known as Professor Jay, has confirmed his return to the stage, declaring he is ready to reclaim his place in Tanzania’s music industry.

The rapper is set to headline the fourth season launch of Bongo Flava Honours on May 1. Organised by Deiwaka World, the event will mark his first major performance after an extended absence from the spotlight.

Speaking on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, during the official announcement of the new season, Professor Jay said he is back after stepping away due to various challenges, including health concerns. He revealed that he is preparing one of the biggest performances of his career, designed to officially mark his return and reconnect with supporters who have stood by him throughout his journey.

“Professor Jay wa ‘Mitulinga’ is now fit. I am taking fans from where I started in Bongo Flava to where I stopped.

Many artistes I have worked with will be present to show love. That day will be more than just a show,” said the former Mikumi MP on the opposition Chadema.

Widely regarded as a pioneer of Bongo Flava, Professor Jay played a pivotal role in shaping Tanzania’s hip-hop movement, using his music to address social issues while building a loyal, cross-generational fan base. His appearance at Bongo Flava Honours has already generated excitement, with fans eager to witness the return of one of the genre’s most influential voices.

With his comeback confirmed, Professor Jay signals the start of a new chapter, one that could redefine his legacy and reassert his presence in Tanzania’s evolving music scene. .

Dar es Salaam. The Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) has identified several key areas in which traders commonly evade taxes, notably in the issuance of receipts, payroll reporting, and the taxation of imported goods.

The observations were made yesterday during the launch of a new TRA tax centre in Masaki, part of ongoing efforts to bring services closer to taxpayers and improve compliance across the country. Speaking at the event, the Acting Commissioner for Operations, Mr Charles Mabula, said some traders continue to avoid paying taxes by failing to issue electronic fiscal receipts, as required by law.

“This situation has caused the authority to lose revenue that should otherwise be collected from goods sold,” he said. Mr Mabula noted that the introduction of the IDRAS tax system would support taxpayers who do not possess electronic fiscal devices by allowing them to issue receipts free of charge.

He added that the system would improve transparency and enhance the accuracy of tax records. He further said that in recent years, TRA investigations had uncovered a growing number of sophisticated tax evasion schemes, particularly in the construction, transportation, and import sectors.

Investigations, he explained, show that some operators use shell companies, falsified documents, and concealed transactions to underreport revenues and reduce their tax liabilities. “In the construction sector, several traders register a company, operate it briefly, then shut it down and open another under a different name.

Meanwhile, a third company is used to process fictitious transactions to mask real earnings,” he said. He added that this pattern has become increasingly common, making enforcement more complex and requiring closer scrutiny of company records and business relationships.

“We have identified cases where companies generate fake receipts and prepare documentation for sales and purchases that never took place. For instance, a company may report sales of one billion shillings with purchases of 900 million shillings.

Yet these transactions exist only on paper. The aim is to minimise declared profits and reduce tax payable,” he explained.

Mr Mabula said such practices deprive the government of substantial revenue each year and create unfair competition, as compliant businesses struggle to compete with those that evade taxes. He stressed that fair competition depends on equal compliance and that traders who honour their obligations are placed at a disadvantage when others manipulate the system.

In the transport sector, he said, tax evasion has taken a different form. Some traders falsely claim to export goods to neighbouring countries, such as Burundi, while the goods remain in Tanzania and are sold locally without paying customs duties.

“Some operators use fake identities, alter cargo information in transit, or even remove export stickers from trucks. In the system, the cargo appears to have crossed the border.

In reality, it remains in the country,” he said. He added that such practices undermine legitimate traders who comply with regulations and distort the integrity of cross-border trade.

Investigations have also revealed the use of foreign-registered shell companies created under false names and presented as consignees for allegedly exported goods, while the cargo never leaves the country. “These are paper companies.

They are registered abroad under fictitious names and used to legitimise shipments that are claimed to be exports, yet the goods never depart. The intention is to evade customs duties and related taxes,” he explained.

In import operations, Mr Mabula said, some traders establish fake companies to bring goods into the country. Once the goods arrive, they are collected and distributed outside the official tax system, often being sold without issuing receipts.

Construction materials and livestock, particularly imported goats intended for resale, were cited as sectors frequently associated with this practice. “Goods enter the country legally but are diverted from full tax assessment.

They are later sold without proper documentation. As a result, the government loses both income tax and value-added tax,” he said.

He added that tax evasion is also evident in the employment of expatriates. In some cases, companies pay foreign employees two salaries: a smaller amount locally for official records and a larger sum directly from abroad.

“What is declared locally is modest, while the bulk of the compensation comes from overseas. This reduces Pay As You Earn deductions and deprives the government of rightful revenue,” he said.

Mr Mabula emphasised that such schemes significantly reduce public revenue and hinder the implementation of development projects in critical sectors, including healthcare, education, and infrastructure. “Tax is the foundation of national development.

Every shilling lost to evasion is a shilling denied to essential services. We will continue strengthening our monitoring systems and take firm legal measures against anyone found evading tax,” he said.

He added that the authority is investing in advanced digital tools and data analysis systems to detect irregularities and close loopholes that enable fraudulent practices. TRA Commissioner Mr Yusuph Mwenda said proper tax collection requires fairness between small and large businesses, with small enterprises paying taxes commensurate with their lower earnings and larger businesses contributing according to higher income levels.

“The opening of this new branch is part of our broader efforts to expand the tax base. Revenue growth will not come from increasing tax rates.

It will come from increasing the number of taxpayers and ensuring compliance,” he said. Mr Mwenda added that TRA currently operates 53 customs offices, 33 regional offices, and 101 district offices nationwide.

This, he said, demonstrates the authority’s commitment to making services accessible to traders and the general public. “Our goal is to enable traders to spend more time growing their businesses rather than travelling long distances for tax services.

Additional centres are planned, including six more in Dar es Salaam this year,” he said. He noted that TRA staff are committed to delivering professional, efficient, and equitable services, guided by principles of transparency and accountability.

The authority is also intensifying efforts to educate taxpayers about their rights and obligations. This, Mr Mwenda said, is essential for promoting voluntary compliance and fair competition by eliminating tax evasion.

The newly opened branch aims to enhance equitable compliance and improve service delivery. Taxpayers are encouraged to use the IDRAS system, which enables them to complete most tax-related activities within 24 hours without visiting TRA offices.

Through the system, taxpayers can apply for refunds, request tax relief, submit official correspondence, and issue electronic receipts. The platform also allows for real-time tracking of applications and transactions, reducing delays and uncertainty.

Mr Mwenda assured users who experience challenges that TRA staff across the country are ready to provide assistance and technical support. “Taxes cannot be hidden.

Even if a matter goes to court, evaders will ultimately be required to pay. Our systems are becoming more robust, and our resolve is firm,” he said.

Ms Victoria Soka, Chairperson of the Tanzania Association of Tax Consultants (TATC), welcomed the opening of the new office, saying it would reduce the need for taxpayers to travel to Kinondoni and improve access to education and advisory services. She also praised the IDRAS system, noting that although users are still addressing operational challenges, the platform has significantly reduced the need for physical visits to TRA offices.

“The system has transformed how taxpayers interact with the authority. It has saved time, reduced costs, and improved efficiency.

With continued refinement, it will further strengthen compliance and service delivery,” she said. Ms Soka added that collaboration between TRA and tax consultants remains vital in promoting awareness, improving compliance, and supporting business growth.

She urged traders to embrace digital systems and adhere strictly to tax laws, noting that compliance not only supports national development but also fosters a level playing field for all businesses. The launch of the Masaki tax centre marks another step in TRA’s broader reform agenda, which seeks to modernise tax administration, improve service quality, and strengthen revenue collection.

As the authority intensifies its fight against tax evasion, officials say sustained public cooperation will be critical in securing the resources needed to support Tanzania’s development ambitions. .

Dar es Salaam. Two decades after stepping into the spotlight as television’s most famous secret pop star, Miley Cyrus is returning to celebrate the legacy of Hannah Montana.

Disney Production Company, through its Disney+ channel, has announced that the “Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special” is set to premiere on March 24. Filmed before a live studio audience, the special will feature an exclusive interview with Cyrus hosted by podcast star Alex Cooper. The discussion will revisit the creation of the iconic character, the show’s meteoric rise, and its lasting cultural impact on audiences worldwide.

The event will also include previously unseen archival footage and recreated versions of some of the series’ most memorable sets, including the Stewart family living room and Hannah’s famed closet. Musical throwbacks and nostalgic moments are expected to transport fans to the era when the blonde-wigged alter ego dominated screens and music charts alike.

When Hannah Montana premiered on Disney Channel in 2006, it quickly became a global phenomenon. The Emmy-nominated series ran for four seasons and helped redefine youth entertainment by blending television storytelling with pop music, launching Cyrus into international stardom.

The franchise later produced platinum-selling albums, sold-out tours, and a feature film, cementing its place as one of Disney’s most influential properties. Reflecting on the milestone, Cyrus described the anniversary, dubbed the “Hannahversary”, as both personal and collective.

“The show has shaped my life. I am grateful to the fans who have stayed connected to the character and its message over the past 20 years,” she said.

The special is produced by HopeTown Entertainment and Unwell Productions, with Miley Cyrus, Alex Cooper, Tish Cyrus-Purcell, and Matt Kaplan serving as executive producers, and Ashley Edens as showrunner. Ahead of the premiere, Disney+ will allow subscribers to revisit the original series and related films, underscoring the franchise’s enduring popularity.

Twenty years on, Hannah Montana remains more than a television show; it is a defining chapter in pop culture history, and the role that introduced Miley Cyrus to the world. .

Dar es Salaam. The ninth prosecution witness in the treason trial of Chadema national chairman Tundu Lissu has told the High Court how police received information that youths were mobilising each other to prevent the 2025 General Election and support the opposition leader.

The witness, PS 18544 ASP Geofrey Aggrey, 47, of the Regional Crime Officer’s office in Arusha, Anti-Robbery Unit, testified on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, under examination-in-chief led by Senior State Attorney Renatus Mkude. Mr Lissu faces one count of treason under Section 39(2)(d) of the Penal Code.

The charge arises from words he allegedly uttered regarding an intention to prevent the 2025 General Election from taking place. The prosecution alleges that on April 3, 2025, in Dar es Salaam, Mr Lissu, being a citizen of Tanzania, with the intent to incite the public, persuaded people to prevent the holding of the 2025 General Election.

He is said to have uttered and written words pressuring the Head of State, including: “If they say this stance signals rebellion, it is true Because we say we will prevent the election, we will mobilise rebellion, which is how to obtain change So we are going to cause chaos, especially this election, we will truly disrupt it We are going to cause very serious chaos” The case is being heard at the High Court of Tanzania, Dar es Salaam Sub-Registry, before a panel of three judges led by the Judge in Charge of the High Court, Iringa, Dunstan Ndunguru, assisted by Judges James Karayemaha and Ferdinand Kiwonde. In his testimony, the witness told the court that on April 3, 2025, while on patrol in various parts of Arusha, he received a radio call from the Acting Regional Crime Officer (RCO) for Arusha, Superintendent of Police Boni Mgogo.

The officer informed him that youths at a bajaji stand in the Morombo area were mobilising each other to prevent the 2025 General Election. The witness said he and other officers proceeded to the scene, where they found a group of youths allegedly mobilising against the election.

Upon seeing the police, the youths fled, but two suspects, identified in court as P4 and P7, were arrested. He directed that they be taken to Murieti Police Station.

Police also impounded four bajajis at the scene, two of which belonged to the arrested suspects. While at the station, the witness said he received further instructions from the Acting RCO directing him to take the two suspects to the RCO’s office for questioning.

There, he questioned them about allegedly conspiring to prevent the General Election. According to the witness, the suspects stated that they were supporting, Mr Lissu’s call to prevent the election and cause chaos.

He told the court that he was subsequently instructed to open an investigation file and interrogate the suspects further in collaboration with other officers. He then recorded his statement.

After completing his examination-in-chief, the witness was cross-examined by the accused, who put a series of questions to him regarding the arrests and the conduct of investigations. .

Dar es Salaam. The Minister of State in the President’s Office for Youth Development, Joel Nanauka, has announced his commitment to discovering and developing sports talent, while calling on young people to fully engage in sports as one of the key pathways to employment and a better future.

Minister Nanauka, who is also the Member of Parliament for Mtwara Urban Constituency, made the remarks during the official opening of the Nanauka Cup tournament, currently underway at Chikongola Primary School grounds in Mtwara Municipality. He said the tournament is aimed at identifying and nurturing young talents, particularly in football, by providing them with opportunities for both academic and professional development.

He explained that through the tournament, which is sponsored by CRDB Bank, young players who demonstrate outstanding ability will be selected and placed in various sports institutions for further development. He noted that this step will enable them to reach higher levels of competition at both national and international stages.

According to Minister Nanauka, the initiative forms part of a broader strategy to ensure that talents are identified early and provided with appropriate support and empowerment. He further said that through special arrangements, some exceptionally talented youths will be given opportunities to travel abroad for advanced football training.

This exposure, he added, will enhance their skills and experience while opening doors to employment in major sports clubs and institutions. “Sports present a huge employment opportunity for young people.

As your Member of Parliament, I have recognized this importance and decided to launch this tournament to provide youths with a platform to showcase their talents. I sincerely commend our sponsors, CRDB Bank, for the great support they have provided in making this tournament a success,” said Minister Nanauka.

He added that the launch of the Nanauka Cup marks only the beginning of fulfilling his pledge to promote sports development within the constituency and beyond, and called upon sports stakeholders, the private sector, and the community at large to support these efforts for the broader benefit of young people and national development. On his part, Senior Manager Youth Banking at CRDB Bank, Mshindo Magimba, said the bank consistently prioritizes young people who carry the nation’s future vision by putting in place strategies that help them achieve their dreams.

“At CRDB Bank, we recognize the importance of sports. That is why whenever an opportunity arises to participate, we do not hesitate to offer our support.

We believe the Nanauka Cup will be a platform to uplift many young people in Mtwara. I assure the youths of Mtwara that we stand with them at all times,” said Magimba.

In addition to sponsoring various leagues and tournaments across the country–including the FA Cup and the National Basketball League CRDB Bank also organizes internal staff competitions under the Super Cup, as well as the CRDB Bank Marathon charity races, which attract runners from within and outside the country. .

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania’s economy ended 2025 on firmer footing, buoyed by rising exports, record gold earnings, and stronger-than-expected tax collections.

But business leaders say sustaining that momentum will require widening the tax base, accelerating mineral project,s and easing bottlenecks in logistics and digital payments. Data from the Bank of Tanzania (BoT) show exports rose to $3.1 billion in the quarter ending December 2025, up from $2.91 billion in the corresponding period of 2024. Gold exports alone climbed to Sh3.15 trillion from Sh2.7 trillion a year earlier, helping push mining and quarrying’s share of GDP to 12.7 percent by September 2025, from 10.6 percent previously.

At a pre-budget forum hosted by PwC Tanzania in Dar es Salaam, tax and industry executives said the numbers point to opportunity — but also structural risks. Country manager at Sotta Mining Corporation’s Nyanzaga Gold Project Mr Isaac Lupokela, said the current mining performance reflects higher prices more than higher output.

“With the very few mines that we have, production itself has not increased significantly compared to last year, but we are taking advantage because of the price of gold,” he said. To make growth durable, he argued, Tanzania must bring pipeline projects into operation across gold and other minerals such as graphite, nickel, and uranium.

“If these mines become operational, we will not only benefit from prices but also from increased production volumes,” he said, adding that the country’s mineral endowment remains underutilised. Stronger mining receipts have fed into public finances.

Domestic revenue collection reached 112.5 percent of the quarterly target, with tax revenue attaining 118 percent of projections, according to BoT data. PwC Tanzania’s partner and tax leader Mr Rishit Shah, cautioned that rising collections must keep pace with demographic pressures.

“We need a significant increase in tax collections to cater for population growth and other matters,” he said. Mr Shah also cautioned that much of the revenue growth is coming from the same large taxpayers.

He added, “If you look at where the growth has come from, it’s largely large taxpayers. The trend we need to see is domestic tax growth.

We need to widen the tax base.” With real GDP growth accelerating to 6.

4 percent in the third quarter of 2025, from 6.1 percent a year earlier, and population growth adding fiscal pressure, expanding compliance among smaller and informal businesses will be critical to sustaining revenue without overburdening established corporates.

Transport and storage activities rose to 8.1 percent of GDP from 7.

1 percent over the same period, reflecting higher cargo throughput and regional transit trade. But Tanzania Truck Owners Association (TATOA) Chairman Elias Lukumay warned that logistics gains risk being eroded by congestion and infrastructure constraints.

Registered trucks have surged from about 28,000 two years ago to 50,000 today, he said, increasing pressure on roads and port access routes. For Tanzania to consolidate its position as a regional trade hub, panelists suggested prioritising road upgrades, port decongestion, and smoother cargo clearance systems.

Foreign exchange reserves stood at $6.32 billion in December 2025, equivalent to 4.9 months of import cove,r providing a buffer against external shocks.

Tanzania Association of Oil Marketing Companies (Taomac) executive director Mr Raphael Mgaya had stated that in the energy sector, global disruptions, including the war in Ukraine and dollar shortages, strained the sector. However, Bank of Tanzania’s measures to curb dollarisation have supported stability.

He expects relatively stable fuel prices in 2026, provided global conditions remain manageable. Even as the economy digitises, industry players cautioned against excessive transaction layering.

Selcom Chief Operating Officer Sarah Mohamed said multiple taxes applied along the digital transaction value chain ultimately fall on the consumer, discouraging adoption. “At each layer, there is a tax, and the end consumer bears that cost,” she said, warning that high transaction costs could slow financial inclusion and formalisation, both essential to widening the tax base.

As policymakers prepare the next budget, the message from industry appears consistent: momentum is building, but sustaining it will require broader tax participation, infrastructure upgrades, and careful calibration of fiscal measures to avoid undermining growth. .

Dar es Salaam. The diplomatic bond between Tanzania and India is a storied narrative spanning over six decades.

Rooted in a shared history of colonial struggle, the relationship has evolved from a mutual quest for sovereignty into a strategic partnership defined by massive economic potential. As India’s global influence surges, Tanzania finds itself at a crossroads where historical sentiment must meet modern economic pragmatism.

The seeds of this partnership were sown even before Tanganyika’s independence. Under its first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, India opened its embassy in Dar es Salaam in November 1962. This early gesture laid the groundwork for a relationship that expanded significantly following the 1964 union of Tanganyika and Zanzibar.

The ideological alignment between the Father of the Nation, Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, and Mr Nehru was profound. Both leaders championed the separation of religion from politics, campaigned tirelessly against all forms of discrimination, and stood as a united front against the vestiges of colonialism and the inequities of the global South.

A legacy of high-level diplomacy This mutual respect was cemented through frequent high-level state visits. Mwalimu Nyerere visited India seven times during his presidency (1971, 1976, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, and 1985).

Subsequent Tanzanian leaders followed suit: Mr Ali Hassan Mwinyi visited twice (1989 and 1993), Mr Benjamin Mkapa in 2002, and Mr Jakaya Kikwete in 2008 and 2015. Notably, every Tanzanian Head of State has visited the Asian giant, except the late Dr John Magufuli. India has consistently reciprocated this interest.

From President V.V.

Giri in 1972 to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2016, a steady stream of Indian dignitaries has graced Tanzanian soil, reinforcing bilateral ties. Recognition of Tanzania’s leadership was also formalised through prestigious international awards; Mwalimu Nyerere received the Jawaharlal Nehru Award for International Understanding in 1974 and the Gandhi Peace Prize in 1995 for his role in achieving independence and regional stability without bloodshed.

A shifting global paradigm Whereas the 1960s through the 1980s were marked by a shared struggle against Western imperialism, the third decade of the 21st century presents a markedly different landscape. India is no longer merely a “developing partner” but a rising, prosperous global titan.

According to projections by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), the global economic hierarchy is set for a dramatic shift. By 2050, Western dominance is expected to wane, with China and India projected to take the first and second spots, respectively, in terms of global economic size (GDP at PPP).

Currently, International Monetary Fund (IMF) data places India as the world’s fifth-largest economy, trailing only the US, China, Japan, and Germany. However, when measuring Purchasing Power Parity (PPP), the IMF recognises India’s rapid ascent as already closely following China.

PwC forecasts that by 2050, the “E7” (emerging economies) will dominate the global stage. The projected top five, China, India, the US, Indonesia, and Brazil, highlight a world where Tanzania’s traditional allies in the West will share the stage with rising giants in the East and South.

The Indian opportunity for Tanzania For Tanzania, the message is clear: the country must deepen its engagement with these emerging powers while maintaining strong relations with traditional partners such as the UK, US, and Japan. India offers a particularly compelling blueprint for socio-economic development.

As the world’s most populous nation, surpassing 1.4 billion people in April 2023, India is lifting an average of 130 million citizens into the middle class every decade.

A World Bank report further identifies India as the world’s sixth-largest buyer of raw materials, presenting a massive, hungry market for Tanzanian agricultural and mineral exports. Beyond trade, Tanzania stands to gain from India’s “knowledge of transformation.

” If India can lift hundreds of millions out of poverty while maintaining its status as the world’s largest democracy, Tanzania, with a population of approximately 62 million, has every reason to believe it can eliminate extreme poverty within a few decades by adopting similar digital and industrial strategies. Looking ahead to 2050 The geographical proximity, with only the Indian Ocean separating the two nations, makes India a “natural neighbour” for the East African Community (EAC) powerhouse.

As India approaches its global economic peak over the next 30 years, Tanzania must ensure its own development goals are tethered to this promising trajectory. By aligning its diplomatic and economic policies with the realities of the 2050 forecast, Tanzania can transition from a historical ally to a modern partner in prosperity.

The focus must shift toward technology transfer, healthcare collaboration, and industrial processing to ensure that the next 60 years of the relationship are as productive as the first 60 were. .

Mwanza. The High Court of Tanzania has delivered a landmark constitutional ruling, declaring that legal provisions allowing certain prosecution witnesses to testify in secrecy fail to ensure equal justice for all parties.

In a judgement delivered on Monday, February 16, 2026, a three-judge panel ruled that the current legal framework granting “hidden witness” protection disproportionately favours the Republic (the prosecution) while denying equivalent procedural rights to the defence. The case, filed by prominent advocate Godfrey Basasingohe, was heard by Judges Fahamu Mtulya, Kamana Stanley, and Wilbert Chuma.

The bench concluded that Section 194 of the Criminal Procedure Act (CPA) falls short of the equality guarantees enshrined under Articles 12(1) and 13(1) of the Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania. “Within 12 months from the date of this decision, Section 194 of the CPA should be amended by Parliament to reflect the principle of equal legal protection.

Failure to do so will render the section legally void,” the judges ordered. Context of the ruling The ruling arrives at a sensitive time for the Tanzanian judiciary, as the country follows the high-profile treason trial of the Chadema national chairman, Mr Tundu Lissu.

In those proceedings, several witnesses have testified under anonymity, with their identities withheld from the accused and the public. Under the current arrangement in such cases, only prosecution lawyers are aware of the witnesses’ identities, while judges observe them from a shielded enclosure.

This practice has ignited a nationwide debate over how to balance witness safety with an accused person’s right to a fair and transparent trial. The legal challenge The constitutional petition, numbered 22482 of 2025, named the Attorney General (AG) and the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) as respondents.

Advocate Basasingohe, represented in court by Mr Elias Hezron, argued that the exclusivity of Section 194 of the CPA creates a “procedural tilt” that undermines the 1977 Constitution. Specifically, the petitioner sought five remedies, including a declaration that both Section 194 and the 2025 Witness Protection Regulations contravene the Mother Law by failing to extend similar protections to defence witnesses.

Mr Basasingohe argued that allowing the DPP to make ex parte (one-sided) applications for witness protection, without the input of the accused or their counsel, deprives the defendant of the right to be heard. He maintained that this violates the presumption of innocence and the right to a fair hearing.

Furthermore, the petitioner requested the court to compel Parliament to establish clear, bilateral procedures for witness protection that would allow the defence to shield its own witnesses from potential intimidation or harm. Pending these legislative amendments, the petitioner had asked the High Court to issue interim orders requiring that any one-sided protection measures be subject to rapid review by both parties upon application.

The State’s defence In response, the State, represented by State Attorney Edwin Webiro, argued that Section 194 was a necessary tool for the administration of justice in a modern legal landscape. The AG and the DPP contended that the law does not violate constitutional rights but rather safeguards the integrity of the judicial process.

Mr Webiro argued that the DPP is empowered to seek protection at any stage to ensure witness safety, and that such measures apply “indiscriminately” to anyone facing credible threats. The State maintained that the secrecy of the application process is essential to prevent the very harm the law seeks to avoid, asserting that the defence’s claims of constitutional violation were unfounded.

The bench’s findings In their deliberations, the judges focused on whether the lack of opportunity for an accused person to contest a witness protection application breached Article 13(6), which guarantees the right to be heard. While the judges acknowledged that witness safety is a legitimate state interest, they found a critical flaw in the “one-way street” nature of the current law.

“It is our view that Section 194 does not violate legal equality principles in theory, but it breaches the fundamental principle of equal legal protection in practice,” the panel noted. “The section denies the defence the right to seek protection for its witnesses, resulting in unequal legal protection between prosecution and defence.

Only prosecution witnesses benefit, while defence witnesses are excluded,” they added. The court further clarified that while orders under Section 194 are interlocutory, meaning they regulate the presentation of evidence rather than determining ultimate guilt, they still carry significant weight in the fairness of a trial.

The judges noted: “Interlocutory orders under Section 194 do not constitute final remedies and cannot be challenged via ordinary appeal procedures. This makes it even more vital that the initial process is grounded in equality.

” Implications for Parliament The High Court’s 12-month ultimatum places the onus on the National Assembly to draft amendments that equalise the “shield” of witness protection. Legal analysts suggest this may require the creation of an independent witness protection agency or a revised judicial protocol where both the DPP and defence counsel can apply for protective measures under a standardised set of criteria.

The ruling has been hailed by human rights activists and the Tanganyika Law Society (TLS) as a victory for the rule of law, ensuring that the “equality of arms” principle remains a cornerstone of the Tanzanian criminal justice system. If Parliament fails to act within the year, the striking down of Section 194 could temporarily halt the use of anonymous witnesses in all ongoing criminal trials, including high-stakes cases currently before the courts.

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Dar es Salaam. The Ministry of Health, through the National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR), in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the World Health Organization (WHO), has launched the delivery of arpraziquantel (arPZQ), the first paediatric formulation of praziquantel designed specifically for preschool-aged children suffering from schistosomiasis.

Other partners in the programme include the Japan and the Global Health Innovative Technology Fund (GHIT Fund). Development partners, donors, government officials and implementing agencies will witness the first deliveries using a test-and-treat approach at Sengerema Health Centre in Sengerema District, Mwanza Region.

The launch marks a major milestone in Tanzania’s fight against schistosomiasis, particularly in the Lake Zone, where infection rates among children under five remain high. The pilot programme aims to reach more than 25,000 preschool-aged children in selected districts and will inform national and regional scale-up strategies.

The Non-Communicable and Neglected Tropical Diseases Control Programme coordinator from the Ministry of Health, Mohamed Nyatisai, said schistosomiasis continues to pose a serious health burden, especially in communities around Lake Victoria. He noted that health facilities continue to receive patients with advanced symptoms, some leading to severe complications and even death.

“For many years, treatment for children under five has been a challenge because the available medicine was not tailored to their age group and often came with side effects,” he said. “Now we have a child-friendly formulation that can be safely administered when guidelines are followed.

” Previously, common side effects of praziquantel included vomiting, stomach pain and weakness, particularly when taken on an empty stomach–a major hurdle in rural settings where some children had not eaten before treatment. Parents frequently raised concerns about adverse reactions.

Health officials say the newly introduced arPZQ formulation is more suitable for young children, and parents will be advised to report to the nearest facility should any side effects occur. UNDP Deputy Representative John Rutera said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to close the long-standing treatment gap for younger children.

“Many of the earlier medicines were developed primarily for adults,” he said. “Through the Access and Delivery Partnership, we have supported efforts to introduce this newly developed treatment and test delivery models that will allow nationwide expansion.

” He added that schistosomiasis remains preventable through improved hygiene, safe water practices and strengthened community awareness. Through its Access and Delivery Partnership (ADP) project funded by Japan, UNDP has supported Tanzania since 2018 with baseline disease mapping, community engagement, national consultations, regulatory strengthening and cost-benefit analysis.

Chief Research Scientist and Director of Research Coordination and Promotion at NIMR, Dr Paul Kazyoba, who is also the principal investigator of the STEPPS project–Strengthening Capacity for Delivery and Uptake of Paediatric Praziquantel Formulation for Schistosomiasis–said environmental conditions in the Lake Zone contribute significantly to high transmission rates. “This new development will transform treatment options for younger children who were previously left out of mass drug administration campaigns,” he said.

The 18-month pilot will be implemented in Itilima, Sengerema and Kigoma district councils. It will assess the feasibility of integrating arPZQ into existing healthcare systems while evaluating different delivery models.

In September 2025, Tanzania became the first country globally to grant regulatory approval for arPZQ, paving the way for the pilot rollout. Technical assistance supported national regulatory processes and accelerated approval mechanisms in collaboration with international partners.

Schistosomiasis affects millions globally and remains highly endemic in Tanzania, particularly in regions surrounding Lake Victoria. The introduction of arPZQ–the first treatment designed specifically for children under five–closes a critical treatment gap and positions Tanzania as a global leader in deploying child-focused innovations against neglected tropical diseases.

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