Category: The Citizen

In some African countries, queues at American embassies to be interviewed for a visa stretch for miles, so much so that one would have to wait for nearly a year just to get to stand at the embassy official’s window and plead their case as to why they should be allowed to travel to their country. Blame Hollywood with its blockbuster movies, depicting manicured lawns and picket fences, the land of milk and honey.

The American film industry has been its most powerful tool of propaganda; it sold the illusion that once you land in the United States, your pockets will magically fill with dollars, or that money grows on trees, ready to be plucked. Working at fast-food joints like McDonald’s was a great way to stack up some dollars for Tanzanian students in the US.

That money comes in handy once one’s 3-year degree is done and the family back home expects some American gift when you depart the country. As years went by most students and visitors on temporary visa never departed, nevertheless, these educated immigrants were easy to absorb into the American workforce, so were the illegal immigrants who went to the country to fill up the manual labour demand much needed in the agricultural sector, mostly because the cheap labour with no demands for benefits and healthcare insurance became the backbone in the plantations, ever since the enslaved Africans were emancipated.

For decades, with the influx of skilled immigrants from Asia in the tech industry and the porous southern border. Immigration became a hot topic that would bring the conservative Trump back in office, who blamed the nation’s decline and woes on the illegal immigrants.

A great salesman sold his ideas well to his base, with a vow to deport all illegal immigrants, who were supposedly raping and killing Americans. One year into his second term.

It seems like the Trump administration is hell-bent on finding all ways to expel all foreigners who are in the country illegally. The administration have escalated their quest even further, seeking ways to even go after people with all the legal papers, but seem not aligned with the current government’s political leaning.

Many Tanzanians have on numerous occasions applied for visas and even got appointments but never got their hands on a visa. “The officer just looked at me through the window.

I could see her holding my documents. I was too nervous to speak, and just like that, I was handed my papers back and told to try next time,” said Mr Juma, who was hoping to join his mother in Miami after he graduated from the Open University in Dar es Salaam.

Another Tanzanian student who has applied for a student visa, but during his interview, he couldn’t speak fluent English, and within a few seconds, he was denied his visa, and just like that, the thousands of dollars he scraped up went down the drain. The US embassy’s no-refund policy ensured that.

This was the norm at US embassies across Africa; social media is full of testimonies from those who were denied visas. But that was before the current Trump administration’s strict immigration policies that are openly being applied by the US government, along with swift deportation of illegal aliens.

One can only imagine how much harder it is for an ordinary Tanzanian to get a visa now. The American Embassy in Dar es Salaam has, in recent times, repeatedly posted on social media posts warning against ‘overstaying’ one’s visa, among other posts outlining the country’s immigration policies.

It is clear that rigorous background and financial checks are now enforced during the visa application process more than ever before. What are the chances for ordinary Tanzanians who had dreams of studying or emigrating to the country? For the uniquely skilled professionals who wanted to secure an H-1B visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations like IT and medicine in hopes of achieving the American dream, the future is uncertain.

The announcement of the major changes in the cost of the H-1B visa caused panic among US employers and their foreign employees. The Tanzanian population in the US is growing, estimated to be close to 100,000; the number of those living there illegally is debatable.

But the recent immigration clampdown has affected them just the same. Parents are worried their deportation would leave their American-born children without parental care.

Some of these Tanzanians moved to the country as students or on visitors’ visas but worked hard and earned their American dreams, which are now in jeopardy. Those who have sacrificed their youth, laboured in the land of the free, and started families, but now their stay in the country is under heavy scrutiny.

For the immigrants who are held at deportation centres, it is unclear if they are allowed to collect their belongings or empty their bank accounts, but at least they can have funds to start a new life when they are kicked out. The recent arrest of Ian Andre Roberts, a beloved Guyana-born superintendent of schools in Des Moines, Iowa, has revealed new ways the American government is reviewing the work permits of its residents, even for those who have been in the country for decades.

If a countrywide federal employee review is done, no one knows how many Tanzanians will come under scrutiny or be detained. And for those Tanzanians who are still doing ‘side jobs’ that are not necessarily legal, how many of them will cease working? These ‘immigrant jobs’ have been a huge part of the remittances Tanzanians send back home, which amounts to millions of dollars annually.

The jobs that ordinary Americans will never apply for, or the small businesses, just like the farmers, depend on immigrants, who are normally paid less, to do the jobs. Working at an African saloon, African and Caribbean markets, delivery services, and warehouses, among other jobs, has sustained many Tanzanians.

Those who have invested their hard-earned dollars back home for years. If these workplaces are monitored.

To avoid ICE agents, these Tanzanians will eventually stop working; the effect will not only be felt by Tanzanians in the diaspora but also their dependents back home. Immigration is a ‘silver bullet’ many politicians love to use to rally their bases during elections.

Trump just perfected it. But we have seen the Nigerian and Tanzanian governments recently enacting strict immigration laws that seem to appeal to their voters, who supposedly have to lay the blame on aliens in times of economic hardship.

To be fair, most of these policies are within the law but not within the societal norm. Communities have thrived in a multicultural setup, and countries have been known to welcome the less fortunate, but times have changed.

This means that for those Tanzanians who still have dreams to emigrate to the US, they have to be aware and not delusional about the country they are hoping to visit or relocate to. The New York you see in movies is a far cry from the real New York, with thousands of homeless people sleeping in the streets.

Yes, the largest economy in the world is a land of possibilities, but your hard work, business network, and academic achievement are crucial to success. The success that might come after decades of struggling to make your dreams a reality.

If you have a B1-B2 visa, make sure you do not overstay, lest you live a life looking over your shoulder, ready to run from ICE agents, and that’s no way for a human to live. You do not want to live like an antelope in the Serengeti, always wary of when the lion will show up.

For the fortunate with a student visa, those on scholarship, make sure that after graduation, you go back to Tanzania, where your education will be valued without chucking out $100,000 for a work visa. But before you spend the money you have saved to book for a US visa appointment, make sure you have all the supporting papers needed to improve your chances of that embassy official granting you a visa; otherwise, you will join the huge pool of Africans who spend their hard-earned money to fill the US government coffers and never get any visa handed out to them.

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Dar es Salaam. Gold has reclaimed its position as Tanzania’s leading export earner, crossing the $4 billion mark for the first time in years, driven by record-high global prices and growing investor demand for safe-haven assets.

According to the Bank of Tanzania’s (BoT) September 2025 Monthly Economic Review, gold exports jumped 35.5 percent year-on-year to $4.32 billion in the year ending August 2025 — up from $3.19 billion in the corresponding period last year. The BoT attributes the boom to soaring international prices, which climbed to $3,368 per troy ounce in August, compared with $3,340 in July.

“The price of gold bolstered by central bank acquisitions, strong safe-haven demand, and anticipations of interest rate cuts,” the central bank stated in part. The revenue from gold exports has also surpassed travel receipts, which increased to $3.84 billion in the year ending August 2025, compared to $3.77 billion previously, suggesting continued strengthening of tourism activities, as international tourist arrivals grew from 2,051,404 to 2,287,377. Despite the impressive numbers, analysts caution that not all the $4.3 billion from gold exports stays within Tanzania’s economy.

The figure reflects the gross export value, which includes earnings repatriated by foreign-owned mining companies after taxes and operating costs. A lecturer at the Tanzania Institute of Accountancy (TIA), Dr Gorah Abdallah, explained that the cost of extraction and the ownership structure of large-scale mines limit how much of the revenue remains onshore.

“Extracting gold requires enormous investments in machinery and technology — something most local companies cannot afford,” he said. “As a result, Tanzania relies heavily on foreign investors or joint ventures.

Much of the export value goes to covering operational expenses, leaving only a portion as net inflows.” Dr Abdallah added that while gold production volumes are high, the retained value in the domestic economy could be low once costs, imports, and profit repatriation are accounted for.

“We need to be cautious and look at the real balance between production costs and actual income,” he said. He added; “The long-term goal should be building local capacity — through education, technical training, and financing — so Tanzanians can play a leading role in extraction and exports.

That’s how the country can secure more value from its resources.” The renewed dominance of gold exports has revived debates about transparency and fair revenue sharing in Tanzania’s mining industry.

Economics expert at Mzumbe University, Prof Haruni Mapesa, said that while the high prices present a golden opportunity for the country, the benefits depend on how effectively the government collects and manages mining revenues. “It’s true that gold comes from both local and foreign companies, including joint ventures.

But converting that into economic growth depends on the transparency of revenue flows — how much companies declare, how much tax is collected, and whether the government gets its rightful share,” he said. Prof Mapesa said that Tanzania has made progress in reforming its mining laws over the past decade, but some contracts remain opaque.

“The government and regulators must review all existing contracts to ensure the country benefits fairly. When prices rise like this, it shouldn’t only be mining companies that gain — Tanzania as a nation should too,” he said.

The mining windfall is also having a macroeconomic impact. In its October 2nd, 2025, Monetary Policy Committee statement, BoT governor Emmanuel Tutuba reported that foreign exchange liquidity in the economy had improved significantly, supported by gold earnings, tourism inflows, and cash crop exports.

“The Shilling was stable against major currencies, appreciating by 8.4 percent against the dollar, compared with a modest appreciation of 0.

7 percent in the preceding quarter,” said Mr Tutuba. He added that reserves remained strong at $6.7 billion, enough to cover more than five months of imports — well above the country’s target and the East African Community benchmark.

“Foreign exchange liquidity is expected to continue improving, supported by seasonal tourism peaks, ongoing cash crop harvests, and high gold prices,” he said. The exports boom aligns with a broader resilience in Tanzania’s economy, which the central bank estimates expanded by 5.

4 percent in the first quarter of 2025, up from 5.2 percent in the same period in 2024. The key drivers to this growth were mining, agriculture, financial and insurance services, construction, and manufacturing activities.

The central bank projects a growth of more than 6 percent in the second and third quarters, with similar momentum expected in the fourth quarter, supported by strong public and private investment and robust export performance. .

Dar es Salaam. Human rights activists in Tanzania have urged political parties and candidates to prioritize the swift completion of the constitutional reform process.

They recommend that the process should begin with the first parliament session in November, with the drafting of the new constitution completed within one year following the 2025 general elections. The proposals were shared by Tanzania Human Rights Defenders Coalition (THRDC) national coordinator Onesmo Olengumwa in a press conference held yesterday to outline recommendations for advancing the constitutional reform agenda.

He acknowledged that political parties that have included the issue of a new constitution in their election campaigns. “Our assessment has shown that political parties and their candidates have made the new constitution one of their key priorities should they be elected to lead the country,” Mr Olengurumwa said.

He highlighted political parties such as CCM, Chaumma, ACT-Wazalendo, CUF and others that have made pledges for the implementation of a new constitution. “We stress that political parties and the leaders elected must ensure they fulfil their promises to revitalise the constitutional reform process.

” In order to ensure the reform process is effectively carried out, Mr Olengumwa proposed several key measures, including national consensus, genuine leadership and the establishment of a national reconciliation committee to guide the process. To save time and resources, the THRDC have proposed merging the themes from three important constitutional documents: the Warioba Draft, the proposed constitution and the current constitution of Tanzania.

“Considering that we already have the people’s constitution, the current constitution and the proposed draft, we suggest that to save time and resources, the process should begin by analysing and combining the themes from these three documents,” Mr Olengumwa added. He also emphasised the need for a national experts’ committee that will help merge these drafts and offer national guidance on the matter.

“We propose the establishment of a legal committee consisting of no more than 25 experts with the necessary professional qualifications, ensuring broad representation from both the union and various social groups.” Furthermore, Mr Olengumwa pointed out that the committee must be independent, with no political bias.

“A significant challenge in the previous process was giving too much power to politicians, which led some members to prioritise personal and party interests over national interests.” To avoid such conflicts of interest, Mr Olengumwa proposed that any individual participating in the constitutional reform committee should be prohibited from running for election for at least ten years.

This will ensure that the process remains transparent, accountable and free from political interference. THRDC also recommended amending the Constitution Amendment Act No.

8 of 2011 or passing new legislation in the first parliament following the 2025 general elections. “The amendments should incorporate the key themes that emerge from national consensus, ensuring that the expectations of the people are legally validated,” Olengumwa said.

The THRDC proposals emphasised the importance of timely action to prevent the delays and confusion seen in previous constitutional processes. “The goal is to begin the reform process within one year of the elections.

This will help avoid the repetition of delays and setbacks as seen in the past,” Mr Olengumwa said. Additionally, a swift start to the process would help preserve the momentum of debates and ideas raised during the campaigns and elections.

“We should avoid initiating the constitutional process close to the election period, as we’ve already witnessed the negative impacts of handling such issues during election years, as happened in 2024/25,” he added. Mr Olengumwa also clarified that the constitutional reform process is not about changing the president but about creating a system that impacts the daily lives of all citizens.

He urged leaders to stop claiming that a new constitution cannot address practical issues like infrastructure development. “The new constitution should be about addressing the needs of the people, not just about political officeholders.

” THRDC programs and operations director Halima Sonda emphasised that key priorities in CSOs’ political agendas include constitutional reform, good governance, human rights, anti-corruption measures, inclusive economic development and improvements in social services. “The principles of these agendas are designed to give space for civil society organisations and citizens to outline the key issues that political parties should focus on when drafting their manifestos,” she said.

The proposal marks an important step towards ensuring that the constitutional reform process in Tanzania is completed in a timely, transparent and efficient manner, for the benefit of all citizens. .

Dar es Salaam. Experts have said Tanzania is on the cusp of becoming East Africa’s industrial leader, with reliable energy supply emerging as its greatest advantage.

Backed by surplus power generation, vast natural gas reserves, and bold policy commitments, they say, the country is laying the groundwork for a manufacturing-driven economy that could outpace its regional peers. The experts were speaking to The Citizen at different occasions about Tanzania’s position to become an industrial leader in East Africa.

The debate stemmed from a recent “hot” discussion on the country’s Dira 2050 at a recent forum hosted under the Media Council of Tanzania (MCT). They said energy has long been a stumbling block in Africa’s industrialisation drive.

Across the continent, factories sit idle during blackouts, investors pull back from projects due to power insecurity, and governments struggle to maintain growth momentum without affordable electricity. Tanzania, however, the economists say is well positioned to break this cycle by turning its energy wealth into a lever for industrial expansion.

“Energy infrastructure is often referred to as the first domino in the chain of industrialisation because it sets everything else in motion,” said Head of Client Coverage, Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB) at Stanbic Bank Tanzania, Mr Elias Ngunangwa. According to him, Tanzania’s emerging surplus in electricity production is changing the game.

“Once that domino falls into place, it unlocks progress in manufacturing, job creation, and inclusive growth. Tanzania is on the path to becoming East Africa’s leader in manufacturing precisely because we are solving the energy equation.

” A sector at the core of Dira 2050 The National Energy Policy of 2015 and the broader Dira 2050 blueprint place energy at the centre of Tanzania’s economic transformation. The government aims to increase power generation to at least 10,000MW by 2040, compared to today’s installed capacity of around 2,400MW, with projects such as the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project (JNHPP) contributing 2,115MW alone.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan has repeatedly emphasised that “energy is the foundation of industrialisation,” noting earlier this year that Tanzania’s surplus would not only meet domestic demand but also turn the country into “a reliable energy exporter in the region.” This vision aligns with the government’s industrialisation agenda, which pushes for more goods consumed in Tanzania to be produced locally, reducing dependency on imports while creating jobs.

While hydroelectric power remains dominant, droughts have exposed its vulnerabilities. To address this, the government is diversifying through natural gas and renewables.

“Tanzania is blessed with abundant natural gas reserves, including Songo Songo and Mnazi Bay. Gas already fuels major industries in Dar es Salaam and beyond,” noted Ngunangwa.

He described gas as “a critical bridge” that sustains industrialisation while the country scales up renewable projects such as solar and wind. Figures from the Ministry of Energy show that Tanzania has over 57 trillion cubic feet of natural gas reserves, positioning it as one of Africa’s strongest players in energy-driven industrialisation.

Beyond resources, energy infrastructure requires heavy financing. Here, financial institutions like Stanbic Bank have been instrumental.

“It goes beyond traditional lending,” Ngunangwa explained. “We provide tailor-made solutions for energy infrastructure, including green bonds and Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs).

These innovative models are helping to mobilise capital for critical projects like transmission lines.” His views are echoed by Executive Director of Tanzania’s Public-Private Partnership Centre (PPPC), Mr David Kafulila, who noted: “The government cannot rely solely on borrowing or taxes.

PPPs provide technical expertise and capital that accelerate the rollout of infrastructure crucial for industrialisation.” Regional competitiveness Energy ambitions are not confined to Tanzania’s borders.

The country is part of the East African Power Pool and already exports electricity and gas during shortages in neighbouring countries. “Becoming a net exporter of energy will boost Tanzania’s economic influence,” said an independent energy analyst, Ms Happiness Mshana.

“It enhances regional competitiveness by attracting industries that want to operate in a reliable and cost-effective power environment.” She added that with regional integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Tanzania’s energy strength could underpin broader manufacturing trade across East Africa.

For sectors like cement, steel, glass, and textiles, among the most energy-intensive, Tanzania’s surplus is more than just numbers on a grid. It is a guarantee of stability, a magnet for foreign direct investment, and a driver of local job creation.

“Manufacturing growth follows energy security,” argued an economist at Mzumbe University, Johnson Mboya. “When Tanzania completes the Julius Nyerere project and scales up renewables, it will gain an edge over regional peers like Kenya and Uganda, where energy costs remain a major barrier to industrial growth.

” For Ngunangwa, energy is Tanzania’s ace card. “With infrastructure in place, diversified sources, and regional collaboration, Tanzania is not just preparing for industrialisation, it is positioning to lead it.

” This is a vision strongly tied to Dira 2050, which paints a future where Tanzania is a middle-income country powered by strong industries, advanced infrastructure, and inclusive growth. .

Zanzibar. When Othman Masoud Othman (OMO) was appointed Zanzibar’s First Vice President, the moment carried deep symbolism.

He was stepping into the shoes of the late political giant Seif Sharif Hamad, a man revered as a pillar of the Isles’ opposition politics and a tireless advocate of democratic ideals. Yet with that honour came an equally heavy burden — the challenge of living up to Seif’s formidable legacy.

OMO, now the Alliance for Change and Transparency (ACT-Wazalendo) presidential candidate for Zanzibar, becomes only the second opposition figure to wield comparable political influence in the Isles since the reintroduction of multiparty politics on July 1, 1992. From the historic multiparty election of 1995 through every subsequent poll, Seif dominated Zanzibar’s opposition politics. He embodied the hopes of many who longed for democratic governance, often claiming victory in elections that were later marred by disputes.

His death on February 17, 2021, while serving as First Vice President, created a vacuum that ACT-Wazalendo sought to fill by naming Othman Masoud as his successor. Now, as the 2025 General Election approaches, ACT-Wazalendo has once again placed its confidence in OMO, believing he can lead the party into a new era.

OMO’s political journey began with the belief that he could shoulder the immense expectations that came with succeeding Seif. The comparison itself is both a compliment and a test.

Seif was more than a political leader — he was an institution, commanding respect even among his opponents. For many Zanzibaris, being considered capable of stepping into Seif’s role represents an extraordinary vote of confidence.

Throughout his four years as First Vice President, OMO has worked to define his own political identity. Rather than imitate Seif, he has sought to build upon his mentor’s legacy by focusing on unity, good governance, and the rule of law.

At the same time, he has never shied away from comparisons with the late leader, often expressing admiration for Seif’s moral courage and political consistency. Born on February 7, 1963, in Pandani Village, Wete District, North Pemba Region, OMO attended Pandani Primary School and later pursued secondary education at Fidel Castro Secondary School in Chake Chake, South Pemba.

He holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from the University of Dar es Salaam, a Master’s in Law (LLM) from the University of London, and another law degree from the University of Turin, Italy, specialising in intellectual property law. OMO’s career in public service began in 1989 when he joined the Zanzibar government as a state attorney.

Over the years, he held several key positions, including Deputy Attorney General, Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Chief Minister, and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Good Governance. In 2002, he became Zanzibar’s first Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), serving in that role for nine years before being appointed Attorney General in 2011 by President Ali Mohamed Shein.

He was relieved of his duties in 2014 after publicly differing with the government on matters related to the Union structure. As he now seeks the presidency, OMO’s campaign is anchored in a message of reform, accountability, and renewed national purpose.

He pledges to restore democratic integrity in Zanzibar by ensuring free and fair elections, a new constitution, and the establishment of an independent electoral commission. Married to Zainab Shaib Kombo and a father of eight, OMO presents himself as a unifier who wants to heal political divisions and advance economic growth through prudent management of public resources.

“I want to return Zanzibar to its rightful owners — the people,” he says, promising to strengthen democracy, combat corruption, and ensure that leadership reflects the will of the electorate. If elected, OMO vows to build on his experience as a seasoned lawyer and reform-minded leader to deliver a modern, prosperous, and just Zanzibar — one that honours Maalim Seif’s enduring dream of a fair and democratic society.

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Nairobi. Non-tariff barriers, corruption, illicit financial flows, shrinking civic space, the widening digital divide, and fragile peace and security have been identified as among the East African Community’s (EAC) most pressing challenges.

These issues took centre stage at the 2025 East African Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) Summit, convened in Nairobi under the theme Harnessing EAC Citizens’ Potential and Participation in Regional Integration Processes. The three-day meeting attracted more than 200 civil society leaders, government officials, development partners, private sector representatives, and academics from all eight EAC Partner States, including the recently admitted Somalia and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Opening the summit, the Executive Director of the East African Civil Society Organisations’ Forum (EACSOF), Ms Lilian Alex, said non-tariff barriers (NTBs) remain one of the main impediments to the EAC’s goal of creating a seamless regional market. She noted that such barriers increase the cost of doing business, frustrate cross-border trade, and particularly disadvantage small and informal traders who lack the capacity to navigate complex border requirements.

“Corruption and illicit financial flows continue to drain national resources, denying citizens access to quality health, education, and infrastructure,” Ms Alex said. “These challenges weaken public trust in institutions and threaten the EAC’s vision of equitable growth.

” She further decried the shrinking civic space across the region, citing increasing incidents of intimidation of journalists, harassment of human rights defenders, and restrictions on election observers. In some cases, she noted, civic actors have been subjected to cross-border surveillance and abductions, eroding confidence in the region’s human rights commitments.

On the technological front, Ms Alex warned that the digital divide remains a persistent challenge, particularly in rural and marginalised areas. She attributed this to weak telecommunications infrastructure, limited broadband access, and uncoordinated digital governance across member states.

“The inability of many citizens to participate in the digital economy is widening socio-economic disparities and limiting civic participation,” she observed. Peace and security also featured prominently in the discussions, with delegates highlighting ongoing tensions and sporadic violence in several border zones.

Participants called for the acceleration of cross-border cooperation frameworks and the operationalisation of early warning systems to prevent conflicts. The summit raised fresh concerns over the extractive sector, where affected communities continue to face displacement, environmental harm, and unmet promises regarding benefit sharing.

Delegates urged partner states to enhance transparency in resource governance and adopt regional standards to safeguard local communities. Gender and social inclusion were also central to the deliberations.

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Arusha. The High Court, Dar es Salaam Sub-Registry, has sentenced Cosmas Msumari to death by hanging after finding him guilty of murdering his elder brother, Lucas Msumari, by striking him on the head with a hammer.

The incident occurred on April 6, 2023, at Togo Street in Kinondoni, Dar es Salaam, where the two brothers shared a single rented room and worked in the same office but in different departments. Delivering judgment on September 30, 2025, Judge David Ngunyale said the prosecution had proved its case beyond reasonable doubt, convicting the accused of murder contrary to sections 196 and 197 of the Penal Code.

One of the key pieces of evidence was the accused’s caution statement, in which he admitted committing the crime. He also led police to where he had hidden the hammer and to the shop where he had purchased it.

Court records show that on the day of the incident, Lucas failed to report to work, prompting concern from his colleagues. Their sister, Lucia Msumari, was informed and, upon arriving at the brothers’ home, found a crowd gathered and discovered Lucas’s body lying in a pool of blood.

Lucia testified that the brothers had been living together, but after the incident, Cosmas disappeared and was only arrested after the burial. Police officer D9688 Haji Ramadhan, who arrested the suspect, said Cosmas confessed to the crime and led investigators to the hidden hammer.

A hardware shop owner confirmed selling him the weapon for Sh14,000. In his defence, Cosmas denied the charge, claiming he lived elsewhere and that police coerced him into signing a statement he did not understand. Judge Ngunyale said although no one witnessed the crime directly, circumstantial evidence was overwhelming.

The prosecution proved the accused lived with the deceased, bought the hammer, and was present at the scene. “The evidence clearly shows that the accused prepared to commit the offence by purchasing the hammer and was present at the crime scene,” said Judge Ngunyale before sentencing him to death by hanging.

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Media shapes our understanding of the world. It tells stories, highlights events, and frames narratives that influence how we see ourselves and others.

Yet, amid the constant flow of news, entertainment, and social media, certain voices are consistently under-represented or worse, invisible. These are the faces you don’t see, the communities and individuals whose stories rarely make it to the headlines, screens, or trending feeds.

Representation, or the lack thereof, is not just a cultural issue it is a societal one. Representation in media matters because it validates existence.

When people see themselves reflected on screen, in print, or online, it sends a powerful message: “You belong. Your story matters.

” Conversely, absence from media narratives can contribute to marginalisation. In Tanzania, for example, rural communities, persons with disabilities, women in certain sectors, and ethnic minorities often receive minimal coverage unless there is a crisis or scandal.

Their everyday struggles, achievements, and perspectives are rarely highlighted, leaving the public with an incomplete understanding of the society they live in. One critical area where representation is lacking is gender.

Women continue to be under-represented in newsrooms and on-screen roles, particularly in positions of authority or expertise. When women are visible in media, they are often portrayed through narrow stereotypes focused on appearance, domesticity, or secondary roles.

Such portrayals perpetuate limited societal expectations and diminish the contributions women make in business, politics, science, and culture. Representation is not about tokenism; it is about fairness, accuracy, and inclusivity in storytelling.

Youth representation is another concern. While young people are often portrayed as trend-followers, social media addicts, or troublemakers, their active roles in social change, innovation, and civic engagement rarely make it into mainstream narratives.

In reality, young Tanzanians are leading initiatives in entrepreneurship, climate action, and digital innovation, yet these efforts seldom receive consistent media attention. Failing to showcase positive youth contributions not only misrepresents society but also deprives younger audiences of role models who reflect their potential.

Media representation also extends to marginalised groups such as persons with disabilities. Far too often, these individuals are depicted through a lens of pity or charity, rather than as active participants in society.

Stories focus on their challenges but rarely on their achievements, skills, or agency. This lack of balanced portrayal reinforces societal barriers and deepens stereotypes, creating a cycle of invisibility and exclusion.

Cultural and ethnic diversity in media is another area demanding attention. Tanzania is home to over 120 ethnic groups, each with unique traditions, languages, and histories.

Yet media coverage often prioritises urban-centric or dominant cultural narratives. Traditional practices, local art, and rural experiences are under-reported, leading to a skewed perception of what it means to be Tanzanian.

By failing to reflect this rich diversity, media limits public understanding and contributes to cultural homogenisation. The consequences of poor representation are profound.

Media not only reflects society but shapes it. It influences public opinion, policy priorities, and social norms.

When certain groups remain invisible, their needs, perspectives, and contributions are overlooked. Representation is therefore a matter of social justice, giving voice to those who might otherwise be unheard.

The good news is that positive change is possible. Media organisations can take deliberate steps to improve representation.

This includes diversifying newsroom staff, engaging with communities, and actively seeking out under-represented voices. Content creators can highlight stories from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that media is inclusive and reflective of the society it serves.

Moreover, audiences play a role by demanding inclusive coverage, supporting diverse creators, and critically evaluating the narratives they consume, they help drive systemic change. Representation is not merely about filling gaps; it is about creating a media landscape where all members of society see themselves accurately and respectfully.

It is about challenging stereotypes, celebrating diversity, and building a more informed and inclusive public dialogue. The faces you don’t see in media are not absent–they are waiting to be acknowledged, valued, and amplified.

Ensuring their visibility is not just good journalism–it is essential for a fair and equitable society. In conclusion, representation in media is a reflection of societal values.

By addressing who is seen, how they are portrayed, and whose stories are told, media has the power to shape a more inclusive and empathetic society. For Tanzanian media, the challenge and the opportunity lies in bringing those hidden faces into the spotlight.

After all, a society that sees all its members clearly is a society that truly understands itself. Angel Navuri is Head of Advertising, Partnerships and Events at Mwananchi Communications Limited .

Dar es Salaam. Tanzanian journalist Julius Maricha of The Citizen newspaper has been named second runner-up in the African Growth Story category at the 2024 Sanlam Group Awards for Excellence in Financial Journalism.

The prestigious ceremony took place in South Africa on October 2, 2025, celebrating Maricha’s outstanding storytelling in portraying Africa’s evolving economic landscape. A certificate signed by Sanlam Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr Paul Hanratty, commended Maricha’s “vibrant journalism,” noting that it plays “an instrumental role in telling the story of economic growth and development on the African continent.

” Established in 1974, the Sanlam Awards mark their 50th anniversary this year, honouring exceptional financial journalists across print, broadcast, and online platforms throughout Africa. With a total prize pool exceeding R700,000 (approximately Sh105 million), the awards recognise excellence in reporting on business, economic challenges, and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues.

Jointly sponsored by Sanlam and Santam, this year’s awards attracted entries from across the continent, celebrating journalistic excellence that highlights Africa’s resilience and innovation. Maricha’s achievement places him among a select group of journalists capturing both the opportunities and challenges shaping Africa’s growth story.

At The Citizen, a leading English-language daily known for its robust business and development coverage, he has gained recognition for crafting compelling features that connect local experiences to continental trends. This latest honour adds to Maricha’s growing list of accolades.

In May 2025, he was recognised at the inaugural Samia Kalamu Awards, organised by the Tanzania Media Women’s Association (Tamwa) in partnership with the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA). President Samia Suluhu Hassan personally presented him with the National Special Award for Best Journalist in Clean Cooking Energy Reporting, acknowledging his reporting on sustainable energy solutions benefiting rural communities.

Reflecting on his recognition, Maricha said: “To be honoured by Africa’s longest-running financial journalism awards is a profound privilege. Being recognised in the African Growth Story category carries deep patriotic meaning–it highlights Tanzania’s economic and business progress on an international stage.

” Mwananchi Communications Limited Executive Editor Mpoki Thomson congratulated him, saying: “Maricha’s recognition reflects our dedication to impactful journalism that addresses issues of public importance across multiple sectors. We are proud of his achievements and confident he will continue to shine beyond Tanzania.

” Maricha, who covers business, clean energy, lifestyle, politics, and gender, is also nominated for Best Tanzania Global Journalist at the Lecturer Awards Tanzania (November 2025) and Journalist of the Year Africa at the MVAA Awards in Nigeria on October 11, 2025. .

Meatu. Residents of Sakasaka Ward in Meatu District, Simiyu Region, have expressed fear and distress following repeated elephant invasions from Maswa Game Reserve, which have endangered lives, destroyed property and caused injuries and deaths.

Speaking to The Citizen’s sister publication, Mwananchi on October 5, 2025, locals said the problem has persisted for years, forcing some families to relocate to avoid attacks. Samson Mathias, a resident of Sakasaka village, said elephants often cross the reserve’s boundaries, raiding homes and farms.

“Elephants break houses, destroy crops, and even kill people. Some residents have moved away out of fear.

We urge the government to take urgent action,” he said. Ramadhani Said added that most attacks occur at night.

“We cannot sleep. When elephants invade, they destroy property and eat crops, and we have to chase them ourselves to reduce damage, which is dangerous,” he explained.

Mathias Nghumbu suggested erecting specialised fences to prevent elephants from entering settlements and recommended keeping bees around the reserve’s perimeter, a method proven effective elsewhere due to elephants’ fear of bees. CCM council candidate for Sakasaka Ward, Emanuel Maliganya, said elephant attacks have caused four deaths in the past five years.

“If elected for a second term, I will work with the government to find a permanent solution. Wildlife ranger posts are already being built, and local youth have received training to manage elephants safely,” he stated.

The Tanzania Wildlife Authority (Tawa) confirmed measures are underway, including increasing ranger patrols and installing equipment to track elephants leaving the reserve. Speaking on behalf of the Maswa Reserve warden, Omary Khalid, said: “We recognise the challenges facing Sakasaka residents.

We plan to increase patrols and strengthen collaboration between wildlife officers and neighbouring villages. We also encourage elephant-friendly methods, such as beekeeping and chilli farms.

” Tawa urged residents to report early signs of elephant movements so rangers can intervene promptly and reduce damage. Humanelephant conflict remains a major challenge in areas bordering reserves and wildlife conservation zones, with experts emphasising community involvement and wildlife-friendly prevention strategies as key to reducing clashes.

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