Category: The Citizen

Dar es Salaam. Technology is increasingly being positioned as a catalyst in strengthening Tanzania’s competency-based education system, with stakeholders arguing that digital tools could significantly improve how knowledge and skills are delivered in classrooms.

From augmented reality to 3D simulations and artificial intelligence-driven platforms, education technology providers say the shift is designed to move schools away from rote memorisation towards practical, skills-oriented learning aligned with real-life demands. Tanzania has in recent year’s expanded digital learning initiatives through programmes such as the Tanzania Education and Research Network (TERNET), Smart School projects introduced in selected urban schools, and the National Digital Education Strategy for 2024/252029/30. One of the companies leading this transition is Ekima, a Tanzanian technology firm that has introduced a digital learning platform featuring interactive videos, 2D and 3D animations, AI-powered tools, and augmented and virtual reality experiences.

According to the company, its platform has so far reached 297 educational institutions nationwide, serving more than 500,000 students and teachers. However, details on how these figures were verified or independently assessed were not immediately available.

In a new partnership with the Christian Social Services Commission (CSSC), Ekima aims to support the implementation of Tanzania’s Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), which was introduced to address long-standing concerns about graduates lacking practical and workplace-ready skills. The collaboration seeks to integrate digital content, simulations, virtual laboratories and competency-based assessments into teaching, with the goal of improving learning outcomes and strengthening students’ skills readiness.

According to the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Arusha, Fredrick Mosha said competency-based teaching requires more than syllabus coverage. “It is about assessing skills and values, and whether students can apply what they have learned in real-life situations,” he said.

On the other hand, Ekima’s Chief Strategy Officer, Kusiluka Aginiwe, described the current phase of Tanzania’s education system as a major shift, noting that employers, policymakers and educators have for years expressed frustration over skills gaps among graduates. “The competency-based curriculum was introduced to respond to these concerns.

This partnership is designed to help close those gaps systematically,” he said. Mr Aginiwe further added that the use of interactive multimedia content can improve learning outcomes by between 20 and 30 percent.

“Particularly in STEM subjects where visualization enhances understanding, citing research from the Education Development Center,” he shared. Beyond academic performance, proponents argue that technology-supported competency-based education enhances employability.

According to Tanzania’s 2023 ICT Survey, only 32 percent of Tanzanians aged between 15 and 35 possess basic digital skills, while just 18 percent are able to use productivity software such as word processors or spreadsheets. This comes at a time when Tanzania’s emerging sectors, including fintech, e-commerce, business process outsourcing, creative industries and technology start-ups, increasingly require exactly these capabilities.

The Tanzania ICT Commission projects that the country will need more than 200,000 ICT professionals by 2030, yet current training pipelines are producing fewer than 15,000 graduates annually, raising concerns about the country’s ability to meet future skills demand without significant changes in education delivery. Students exposed to simulations, problem-based learning and real-world scenarios are said to develop transferable skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, creativity and digital fluency.

“The competencies that matter today go beyond the classroom,” Aginiwe said. “Digital fluency and problem-solving skills are increasingly central to employment readiness.

” As Tanzania’s economy diversifies into services, logistics, technology, tourism and creative industries, stakeholders argue that aligning education with digital transformation is no longer optional. “Technology-enabled competency-based education is strategic,” Aginiwe said, pointing to countries such as Singapore, Estonia and South Korea, which have invested heavily in digital education and skills-based learning and now rank highly in global innovation and education indices.

Historically, Tanzania’s efforts to integrate information and communication technology into education have been fragmented. However, progress has been recorded in recent years.

In 2020, the government equipped 1,696 primary schools with science and ICT facilities and provided ICT training to trainee teachers at primary education colleges. By 2023, primary schools nationwide were reported to have 17,700 desktop computers and 10,384 laptops, with a majority connected to the national electricity grid.

While the ambition is clear, the long-term success of such initiatives will depend on infrastructure readiness, teacher training, affordability, and sustained public-private collaboration. For Tanzania, the question is not only whether technology can improve classrooms, but how inclusively and equitably that transformation can be implemented nationwide.

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Dar es Salaam. Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba has directed the Ministry of Health to prepare a comprehensive national strategy to address the anticipated rise in cancer cases, following warnings that the global burden of the disease is expected to increase in the coming years.

Citing projections by the World Health Organisation (WHO) that cancer cases worldwide could rise by more than 60 percent by 2030, Dr Nchemba said Tanzania must act to strengthen prevention, early detection and treatment services. He made the remarks during the commemoration of the 30th anniversary of the Ocean Road Cancer Institute (ORCI), saying the country cannot afford to wait until the impact is fully felt.

He urged health authorities to improve preparedness through better planning, investment in infrastructure and expansion of specialised services. “We must respond proactively.

The projected increase calls for a clear, well-coordinated strategy that prioritises prevention, early screening and timely treatment,” he said. The Prime Minister said that the strategy should also focus on public awareness campaigns, vaccination programmes, research and the training of more oncology specialists.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding public health, noting that effective planning would help reduce preventable deaths and ease pressure on families and the healthcare system. Dr Nchemba called on stakeholders, including the Ministry of Health, to strengthen public awareness campaigns and promote early screening and preventive measures.

These include vaccination against Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis, tobacco control and the promotion of healthy lifestyles. He stressed the importance of early detection, warning that delayed diagnosis significantly reduces survival chances.

Dr Nchemba also cautioned against misconceptions and unscientific beliefs that prevent patients from seeking professional medical care. “Directing patients towards unfounded beliefs delays diagnosis and reduces their chances of receiving timely treatment.

We must continue to educate communities at all levels,” he said. He commended health experts for progress made over the past three decades, saying the anniversary marked achievements in saving lives and advancing cancer care in Tanzania and across Africa.

Dr Nchemba said the government has put in place a system intended to guarantee access to preventive services, early screening, treatment and follow-up care for cancer, regardless of income. “Through this system, every Tanzanian will be assured of access to preventive services, early diagnosis, treatment and follow-up for cancer without discrimination based on financial status,” he said.

He noted that improvements in the health financing framework would help remove financial barriers, protect families from medical expenses and enable better planning and funding of cancer services. On strengthening healthcare infrastructure, Dr Nchemba said more than Sh18.5 billion has been invested in the construction and establishment of specialised cancer services, including the installation of a modern radiotherapy machine.

He added that the availability of cancer medicines has increased to 90 percent, improving access to essential drugs. The government is also expanding services geographically.

Dr Nchemba cited the construction of the Mbeya Cancer Centre, the installation of radiotherapy machines at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC), and the construction of a dedicated building for radiotherapy equipment at Benjamin Mkapa Hospital in Dodoma. “These investments demonstrate our commitment to bringing services closer to the people and reducing the burden of travelling long distances for specialised care,” he said.

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Dar es Salaam. Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) are rarely in the headlines, yet they quietly affect the health, productivity, and dignity of millions of Tanzanians, experts have said.

According to them, these diseases mostly target the poorest and most vulnerable, spreading where access to clean water is limited, sanitation is poor, and health services are weak. Among them, schistosomiasis and its little-known form, Female Genital Schistosomiasis (FGS), is emerging as a serious but overlooked public health threat.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Africa carries over 90 percent of the global burden of schistosomiasis. In Tanzania, communities living near lakes, rivers, and irrigation schemes are at highest risk, as they rely on freshwater sources for daily life.

While intestinal and urinary schistosomiasis are fairly well known, FGS remains largely hidden, even though it affects millions of women and girls. FGS occurs when parasitic worms lodge in the female genital tract, causing inflammation and lesions.

Experts estimate that over 56 million women and girls across sub-Saharan Africa are affected. Yet, the disease is often mistaken for sexually transmitted infections or even cervical cancer.

Misdiagnosis fuels stigma, delays treatment, and causes unnecessary suffering. FGS also raises other health risks.

Women with the disease are three times more likely to contract HIV and have a higher risk of human papilloma virus (HPV), which can lead to cervical cancer. It can also cause infertility, miscarriages, and stillbirths.

These consequences extend beyond health, affecting women’s social and economic wellbeing. In an interview with The Citizen on February 10, 2026, Programme Coordinator of the Mwele Malecela Days of Action (Mwele-DOA), Dr Kuduishe Kisowile, says: “We are treating Female Genital Schistosomiasis not just as a neglected tropical disease but also as a risk factor for HIV and cervical cancer.

Integrating FGS care into existing reproductive health services will protect women and girls from preventable complications, infertility, stigma, and misdiagnosis.” Adding perspective, a reproductive health expert with the Ministry of Health, Dr Amina Mohamed, explains: “Many women suffer silently because FGS is rarely checked in routine health visits.

Raising awareness among both communities and health workers is crucial to ensure early detection and treatment.” Similarly, an infectious disease researcher at Muhimbili University, Dr James Mwita, notes: “Treating schistosomiasis and FGS cannot be done in isolation.

We must link these efforts to water and sanitation projects, sexual health services, and education programmes to reduce reinfection and long-term complications.” Historically, NTDs in Tanzania have been addressed through separate campaigns, often disconnected from broader health services.

Mass drug administration (MDA) with praziquantel has reduced illness, but it has not stopped transmission or treated chronic conditions like FGS. Experts say that fully tackling NTDs requires integrating prevention and treatment into general health services, as well as linking them to clean water, sanitation, hygiene (WASH), and gender-focused initiatives.

Tanzania has made progress in recent years. The Ministry of Health has aligned national NTD strategies with the WHO NTD Roadmap 20212030, emphasising community involvement, data-driven approaches, and integration with existing health services.

Preventive drug campaigns continue in high-risk areas, while partnerships with WHO, Unlimit Health, and local organisations support research, advocacy, and community outreach. Among local initiatives, Mwele-DOA has focused on raising awareness and empowering communities to act.

Its activities include training youth and community health workers, educating parents and food vendors about hygiene and disease prevention, and advocating for FGS to be included in national health guidelines. While not the only actor, Mwele-DOA demonstrates the importance of community engagement in fighting NTDs.

Controlling NTDs also supports Tanzania’s broader Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda. By embedding NTD care into primary health services, the country can improve access to preventive care, reduce long-term health costs, and strengthen health systems.

Tackling NTDs also contributes to gender equality, child health, and economic development by preventing diseases that keep women and children in cycles of poverty and illness. Experts warn that ignoring FGS and other NTDs has long-term consequences.

Without early detection and integrated care, women will continue to suffer in silence, while the health system misses opportunities to prevent HIV, cervical cancer, and reproductive complications. .

Dar es Salaam. With just over a month remaining before the Kilimanjaro Premium Lager International Marathon 2026, organisers have announced that registration is nearing capacity and may close at any time.

In a statement issued in Dar es Salaam, organisers said registration will be shut once the maximum number of participants is reached, urging prospective runners to secure their slots while space remains available Entries are limited across all three race categories–the Kilimanjaro Premium Lager 42km Full Marathon, the YAS 21km Kili Half Marathon and the CRDB Bank 5km Fun Run–to comply with World Athletics safety standards on carrying capacity. “Once registration is closed, no further entries will be sold,” the statement said, noting that participant limits help ensure a safe and enjoyable race experience while allowing organisers to adequately provide hydration, medical care and other essential logistics along the route and at the finish.

Runners have also been advised to collect their race numbers in advance from designated centres in Dar es Salaam, Arusha and Moshi. The Dar es Salaam collection point will be at Mlimani City Mall, in front of Samaki Samaki, from Friday March 13 (4pm7pm), Saturday March 14 (10am6pm) and Sunday March 15 (10am6pm).

In Arusha, race numbers will be issued at Kibo Palace Hotel on Tuesday March 17 and Wednesday March 18, from 2pm to 7pm on both days. The final collection point will be Moshi Cooperative University (MoCU), where numbers will be available on Thursday March 19 (12 noon5pm), Friday March 20 (10am6pm) and Saturday March 21 (9am5pm).

This year’s event is sponsored by Kilimanjaro Premium Lager (42km Full Marathon), YAS (21km Kili Half Marathon) and CRDB Bank (5km Fun Run). Supporting sponsors include Kilimanjaro Water and TPC Sugar.

Official partners are GardaWorld Security, Toyota Tanzania, Columbia Sportswear, Simba Cement, Harleys Healthcare Solutions and Alaf Limited. Official suppliers include Salinero Hotel, Kibo Palace Hotel Arusha and Keys Hotel in Moshi.

The Kilimanjaro Premium Lager International Marathon will be held at Moshi Cooperative University on Sunday, March 22, 2026. The event is organised by Kilimanjaro Marathon Company Limited, with Wild Frontiers Events handling inbound travel and international marketing. .

Dar/Tanga. Questions have arisen over the death of Mohamed Kisingwe, 29, who reportedly died while in police custody after being arrested on suspicion of drug trafficking.

Controversy surrounds the circumstances of his death following conflicting accounts over the cause. Tanga Regional Police said he died due to low blood pressure, but his family insists he had no history of the condition.

Further doubts emerged after Kisingwe’s mobile phone was reportedly used to call his relatives and local leaders to request his full name, raising questions about how he was arrested without his identity being confirmed. Mr Kisingwe is not the first person to die under unclear circumstances while in custody.

In January this year, a resident of Moshi in Kilimanjaro Region, Mr Michael Lambau, 18, died by suicide while held at Moshi Central Police Station. Another case involved Mr Shaban Luluba from the Coast Region, who died on Thursday, January 8, 2026, after being shot by police during an arrest operation.

On the same day, Police Spokesperson David Misime announced investigations into three incidents, including the deaths of Mr Lambau and Mr Luluba, to determine whether officers were responsible. He said thorough inquiries were underway and appropriate legal action would be taken against anyone found culpable.

However, the police’s decision to investigate themselves has faced criticism, as findings from previous probes have not been made public. On February 4, 2022, President Samia Suluhu Hassan directed then Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa to form an independent committee to investigate alleged police killings in Mtwara Region, stating that the police could not investigate themselves.

“There have been killings in Mtwara, and reports indicate the police were involved. The police can’t investigate themselves.

I have instructed the Prime Minister to form another committee to investigate and report back,” the President said at the time. Family raises concerns Speaking to The Citizen sister newspaper Mwananchi on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, Mr Kisingwe’s uncle, Mr Bakari Juma, said the family was deeply concerned about the true cause of death and called for an independent inquiry.

He said the confusion began when Mayomboni Ward councillor Husein Kamoyo received a call from the deceased’s phone by individuals identifying themselves as police officers, who asked for Mr Kisingwe’s full name. “We suspect he may already have been harmed.

If he were alive, why didn’t they ask him directly?” he questioned. The family also disputed claims that he died from blood pressure complications, saying they were unaware of any such medical condition.

Mr Kisingwe’s body remains at Tanga Regional Hospital, Bombo, as the family awaits burial arrangements. Mayomboni village chairperson Mwinjimwa Ramadhan said he was informed on February 7, 2026, that the young man had been detained and believed he was safe in custody.

“I received a call from someone claiming to be a police officer from Duga Mtandikeni asking if I knew the suspect. I told them to ask him directly if he was with them,” he said.

Later, they called again requesting the suspect’s name and family details, and by evening informed him that the suspect had died. The councillor also confirmed receiving a call from the deceased’s number, in which the callers first identified themselves as police officers and later as good Samaritans, insisting on being given the deceased’s name.

“When I asked what had happened and why he had not been taken to the hospital if he was unwell, they did not provide clear answers,” Kamoyo said. Police statement In a statement, Tanga Regional Police Commander Almachius Mchunguzi said Kisingwe died after allegedly fleeing officers from the Drug Control and Enforcement Authority (DCEA) during an arrest.

He said the incident occurred on February 7, 2026, after officers received information about individuals transporting khat in the Mahandakini area of Mayomboni. Officers reportedly spotted a man riding a motorcycle, registration number MC 723 EFD, suspected of carrying the substance.

He allegedly stopped the motorcycle and attempted to flee before being apprehended. “After his arrest, he appeared to have difficulty breathing and seemed exhausted.

He was taken to the hospital, where he later died. Preliminary findings indicate the death was caused by low blood pressure,” the commander said.

He added that investigations are ongoing. .

Dar es Salaam. Youth in East African countries have been urged to be innovative and tap into the opportunities created by the growing prominence of Kiswahili, not only to earn a living but also to create jobs for others.

The call was made on Thursday, February 12, 2025, in Dar es Salaam by the East African Kiswahili Commission (Kakama) executive secretary, Dr Caroline Asiimwe, during a visit to Mwananchi Communications Limited (MCL) offices as part of celebrations marking the commission’s 10th anniversary. Dr Asiimwe said the recognition of Kiswahili as an official international language has generated numerous opportunities, including translation and interpretation, teaching Kiswahili to foreigners, publishing, arts, writing, and related fields.

She noted that even in this era of technological advancement, a young professional with skills in Kiswahili can contribute to creative teams developing software, focusing on the language component. However, she stressed that the continued growth of Kiswahili requires guidelines to regulate its formal use.

“For those using this language for official purposes, for example, in translation, interpretation, or teaching, there is a need to formalise their work and provide guidelines so that they understand the rules and standards they must follow,” she explained. She added that formalising the profession would help reduce cases where unqualified individuals undertake translation or interpretation work, which often results in inaccuracies, especially on digital platforms.

Dr Asiimwe cited examples of people using Artificial Intelligence (AI) for translation without understanding basic principles, leading to misinterpretation. “Some people take on translation or interpretation tasks simply because they speak Kiswahili, but if you assess the quality of their work, it is often substandard,” she said.

Growth of Kiswahili in East Africa Speaking on the expansion of Kiswahili in the East African region, Dr Asiimwe said the language has flourished to become one of the official and widely used languages of communication among member states. “We are proud that Kiswahili has now grown and been recognised as one of the official languages and a language of wider communication within member countries,” she said.

Following approval by the heads of member states, Kiswahili was formalised alongside English and French as an official language. The East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) Member from Tanzania, Mr Abdullah Makame, emphasised the importance of implementing directives and guidelines on promoting and using the language correctly.

He noted that despite the existence of policies and guidelines, challenges persist in their implementation, at times resulting in decisions being made outside established procedures, which can undermine efforts to promote Kiswahili both nationally and internationally. “There has been limited progress in implementing directives and strategies for Kiswahili usage, partly due to delays in drafting and revising legal regulations,” he said.

The legislator urged society to stop disregarding local cultures, including Kiswahili, in favour of foreign languages, stressing that such attitudes weaken efforts to elevate the language globally. On the commission’s achievements, Dr Asiimwe highlighted various collaborative projects between Tanzania and other countries aimed at promoting Kiswahili, including academic exchanges allowing experts and students from neighbouring countries, such as Uganda, to learn and share experiences on the language.

“This shows that Kiswahili is not just a Tanzanian language but a regional and international resource. It is our duty to ensure its quality is maintained through formal policies and guidelines,” she emphasised.

MCL’s Head of Training, Mr Rashid Kejo, said the company supports efforts to promote Kiswahili through content production and dissemination in the language. “We at Mwananchi support and are key stakeholders in developing and promoting Kiswahili, as our content is produced and disseminated in Kiswahili through our newspapers, Mwananchi and Mwanaspoti, excluding The Citizen, which is published in English,” he said.

As part of the 10th anniversary celebrations of Kakama, various Kiswahili stakeholders and citizens from eight East African Community countries; Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Kenya, Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan, Uganda, and Tanzania, are expected to meet on Saturday, February 14, 2026, in Zanzibar to assess and discuss the future of Kiswahili in East Africa. .

Dar es Salaam. President Samia Suluhu Hassan has left for Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where she is expected to be endorsed as the African Union (AU) Champion for Maternal and Child Health.

She will also witness Burundi formally assume the Chairmanship of the AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government, while Tanzania is set to serve as Second Vice-Chair, representing the Eastern Region. A State House statement issued on Thursday, February 12, 2026, and signed by Director of Presidential Communications Bakari Machumu, said President Hassan departed for the 39th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly, scheduled for February 14 and 15. “Among other matters, the 39th Ordinary Session will consider and confirm the incoming AU Chairperson.

Should President evariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi be endorsed, he will succeed outgoing Chairperson JoaPound o Manuel Gonaalves Lourenao of Angola,” the statement read. Tanzania’s designation as Second Vice-Chair, representing the Eastern Region, highlights the AU’s confidence in the country’s principled leadership and commitment to continental integration.

According to the statement, if endorsed, President Hassan’s role as AU Champion for Maternal and Child Health will further showcase Tanzania’s long-standing efforts to strengthen health systems, promote family well-being, and advance human capital development across Africa. Ahead of the Assembly, the statement said that on February 13, the President is scheduled to attend a meeting of the Committee of African Heads of State and Government on Climate Change (CAHOSCC), hosted by Kenya’s President William Ruto.

She will also attend a State Dinner hosted by Ethiopia’s Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed Ali. On the Assembly’s margins, President Hassan is expected to hold high-level bilateral meetings with several continental and international leaders, including Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini of Eswatini, Comoros President Azali Assoumani, UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, and African Development Bank Group President, Dr Sidi Ould Tah.

“These engagements aim to consolidate political dialogue, deepen economic cooperation, and advance shared development priorities,” said the statement. The 39th Ordinary Session will be held under the theme: “Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063”.

The theme reflects member states’ determination to strengthen water security, promote public health, and accelerate sustainable and inclusive development across Africa. Tanzania is concluding its tenure on the African Union Peace and Security Council, having served two consecutive terms from 2022 to 2026. During this period, the country contributed significantly to continental efforts to promote peace, stability, conflict prevention, and post-conflict reconstruction.

On maternal and child health, Tanzania has recorded remarkable progress driven by strategic investments and innovative programmes. Over the past two decades, maternal mortality has dropped by 80 percent, while the under-five mortality rate has fallen by one-third, according to the 2022 Demographic and Health Survey.

These gains reflect Tanzania’s comprehensive approach to maternal, newborn, and child health, supported by groundbreaking initiatives, including the expansion of healthcare access. Nearly 2,000 new health facilities have been established, bringing quality care closer to communities and enabling more women to receive skilled care during pregnancy and childbirth.

Another initiative, the m-Mama programme, has ensured safer deliveries in health facilities by addressing critical gaps in emergency transportation and maternal care. Efforts to combat malnutrition, including programmes targeting stunting, micronutrient deficiencies, and general malnutrition, have also improved health outcomes for women and children nationwide.

Through these interventions, Tanzania demonstrates its commitment to safeguarding the well-being of mothers and children and advancing human capital development, reinforcing its leadership role within Africa. .

Mbeya. Tanzania’s Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPC) has announced that it will begin nationwide compliance inspections in April, targeting institutions that have failed to register and appoint Data Protection Officers (DPOs) as required by law.

Speaking in Mbeya on February 11 during the opening of a seminar for Data Protection Officers, the Commission’s Director General, Dr Emanuel Mkilia, warned that failure to comply with the Personal Data Protection Act, Chapter 44, puts citizens’ privacy, security and fundamental rights at risk. “Failure to implement the requirements of this law is not a minor oversight.

It endangers the privacy, security and rights of our people,” said Dr Mkilia. “The Commission is now prepared to conduct compliance inspections, monitor the implementation of registration and appointment directives for Data Protection Officers, and take legal action where violations are identified.

” He said the inspections are scheduled to begin on April 9 this year. The move signals a decisive shift from awareness-raising to enforcement, placing Data Protection Officers at the centre of Tanzania’s efforts to safeguard personal information in both public and private institutions.

Dr Mkilia stressed that the ongoing training sessions are designed to strengthen institutional capacity to implement the law effectively. The seminars bring together representatives from government bodies and private organisations to ensure that the collection, processing, storage and use of personal data comply with legal and professional standards.

“Our goal is to see practical change within institutions,” he said. “We expect stronger internal control systems, greater accountability, and a reduction in incidents that violate privacy or compromise the security of citizens’ data.

” Under the law, Data Protection Officers are responsible for ensuring that institutions handle personal information lawfully and transparently. They serve as internal watchdogs, advising management on compliance, identifying risks and preventing data breaches that could harm individuals or expose organisations to legal penalties.

Opening the seminar, Mbeya Regional Commissioner Beno Malisa called for tough penalties against those who profit from the misuse of personal data. “We want to hear about strict penalties, not leniency,” said Mr Malisa.

“There are people who have turned the sale of other people’s private content into a business. This is unacceptable.

Legal action must be taken against those involved.” Participants at the seminar welcomed the initiative, saying it would help close knowledge gaps and reduce vulnerabilities within institutions.

Adelin Kakoko, one of the trainees, said the training would enhance understanding of legal obligations among public and private sector employees. “We have already improved our awareness of how to handle personal data in line with the law, procedures and regulations,” she said.

“But this training will deepen our knowledge and help us eliminate loopholes that allow data leaks.” Another participant, Ipyana Jengela, said the seminar would boost efficiency in carrying out their responsibilities.

“We expect to learn more so that we can improve our effectiveness and help our institutions achieve their goals in line with regulations and guidelines,” he said. “These trainings are very important to us.

” As Tanzania accelerates its digital transformation, the effectiveness of Data Protection Officers may well determine whether citizens’ personal information remains secure — or becomes increasingly vulnerable in an interconnected age. .

Dar es Salaam. The Government has allayed concerns among sports stakeholders over Tanzania’s preparedness to host the Africa Cup of Nations finals next year, citing massive financial investment to ensure the timely completion of key stadium projects.

The assurance follows reports circulating on social media claiming that Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda risk losing hosting rights for the Afcon finals due to alleged unpreparedness. Speaking to The Citizen, Government Chief Spokesperson and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Gerson Msigwa, described the claims as propaganda targeting Tanzania and its co- hosts Kenya and Uganda, all of which he said have made significant progress in preparations.

Msigwa said Tanzania has invested USD 250 million ( more than Sh700 billion), in the construction of the Arusha Stadium, which has reached over 74 percent completion, as well as the Dodoma Stadium. He said the Arusha Stadium is expected to be completed by July and will be ready for test events, while construction of the Dodoma Stadium, which will serve as a backup venue, is ongoing.

According to Msigwa, the total investment in the two stadiums, along with three additional training venues, will reach Sh900 billion. “This is only part of the overall Afcon infrastructure investment of USD 470 million, more than Sh1.2 trillion.

Tanzania is ready, contrary to the propaganda being spread by sections of the media that do not wish to see the three East African nations make history by hosting these finals,” said Msigwa. He added that the Government has put in place various strategies to ensure the tournament is staged to the highest standards.

“For example, Air Tanzania will increase flights to all countries that qualify for the Afcon finals hosted in Tanzania. Fans from Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Ivory Coast and others will be able to travel directly to Tanzania to watch matches.

This plan will begin before the tournament,” he said. Msigwa noted that Air Tanzania already operates routes to 17 countries, making it easier for football fans to travel to Tanzania during the tournament.

He said the Government under President Samia Suluhu Hassan has prioritised Afcon preparations, which explains the substantial investment being made. According to Msigwa, football fans, teams and other stakeholders visiting for Afcon will face no challenges before, during or after the tournament.

“There is no problem for Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda to jointly host Afcon. We planned well in advance, including paying the USD 30 million (more than Sh7.7 billion), hosting fee for each country,” he stressed.

Tanzania Football Federation president Wallace Karia. PHOTO | COURTESY He added that Tanzanians should take pride in the investments that began with the Chan tournament and are now continuing towards Afcon, noting that preparations have been underway since 2023. Meanwhile, Tanzania Football Federation president Wallace Karia urged football fans to ignore online propaganda, saying the Confederation of African Football operates through established procedures and not under pressure.

Karia said the meeting scheduled for today is a routine one and not meant for making decisions, adding that there is still ample time to continue Afcon preparations. “This is a normal meeting, not a decision making one.

Social media claims should be ignored because Caf does not make decisions under pressure. In terms of preparations, we are in a very good position,” said Karia.

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Dar es Salaam. For years, the East African Community (EAC) has grappled with a familiar set of challenges: slow customs clearance at borders, fragmented data systems, weak coordination among partner states, revenue leakages and limited research capacity.

While the bloc has made notable progress in market integration and digital reforms, inefficiencies continue to cost the region billions in lost productivity and missed trade opportunities, according to experts. It is against this backdrop that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is emerging, not as a fashionable slogan, but as a potential structural solution.

Across the globe, AI is reshaping how governments operate. PwC estimates that AI could contribute up to $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030. For Africa, McKinsey projects that AI could add more than $1 trillion annually if effectively deployed.

Yet East Africa’s adoption remains nascent. It is constrained by limited computing infrastructure, acute skills shortages and fragmented regulatory frameworks.

For the EAC, the central question is not whether AI is transformative, but whether it can address the bloc’s long-standing operational weaknesses. The East African Science and Technology Commission (EASTECO), in collaboration with the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA), is set to convene the 4th EAC Regional Science, Technology and Innovation Conference in Kigali next month.

Experts say the meeting could mark a historic shift in the bloc’s development agenda. For the first time, the EAC will host a high-level conference dedicated entirely to Artificial Intelligence.

Under the theme “Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for a Resilient, Inclusive, and Innovative East Africa”, the meeting signals a strategic recognition: AI is no longer optional. It is central to how the region will operate, integrate and compete.

This comes at a time when intra-EAC trade has grown steadily, yet non-tariff barriers and bureaucratic delays remain persistent complaints among traders. The World Bank has previously noted that inefficient border procedures in parts of sub-Saharan Africa can raise trade costs by up to 40 percent.

AI-powered customs management systems could alter this dynamic. By analysing cargo data, identifying high-risk consignments and automating documentation verification, AI reduces human discretion and accelerates clearance processes.

“AI introduces predictive capacity into customs operations,” explains a regional ICT policy analyst, Dr Gaspard Banyankimbona. “Instead of reacting to problems, systems can anticipate irregularities, reducing delays and opportunities for corruption.

” For EAC operations, this would translate into smoother cross-border trade, faster cargo turnaround and improved investor confidence. Revenue leakages and the persistence of ghost workers have periodically surfaced across public institutions in the region.

While digital systems such as Tanzania’s Government e-Payment Gateway (GePG) and electronic fiscal devices have improved transparency, AI could take oversight a step further. Machine learning systems can detect unusual procurement patterns, flag duplicate payments and identify anomalies in payroll databases.

“AI does not get tired or compromised,” said Dr Banyankimbona. “When embedded in auditing systems, it becomes a powerful anti-corruption tool.

” For a bloc striving for fiscal stability and deeper economic integration, stronger revenue management would support more predictable budgeting and foster greater public trust. Agriculture employs more than 60 percent of East Africans and contributes significantly to regional GDP.

Yet climate shocks, pest infestations and weak market coordination continue to undermine productivity. AI applications, including satellite-driven crop monitoring, predictive weather analytics and pest surveillance, could enable governments to anticipate food shortages and respond proactively.

For the EAC, coordinated AI-driven agricultural systems could stabilise food supply chains and strengthen resilience against climate change. An agricultural data scientist at Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA), Dr Neema Msuya, notes: “If regional data is shared, AI models can forecast crop performance across borders.

That improves food security planning and reduces emergency imports.” The Covid-19 pandemic exposed weaknesses in cross-border health data sharing.

Experts say AI-powered disease surveillance systems can analyse real-time trends, detect abnormal patterns and support early warning mechanisms. “AI also has implications for security and migration management.

Intelligent systems can support biometric verification and detect fraudulent documentation, enhancing border management without slowing movement,” said Dr Msuya. Tanzania has taken concrete steps to narrow this gap.

The revised National ICT Policy of 2023 places emphasis on emerging technologies. The University of Dar es Salaam has introduced data science programmes, while the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST) is advancing research in machine learning applications for energy and agriculture.

The Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology (DIT) is also integrating AI modules into engineering courses. These initiatives aim to build a domestic skills base capable of supporting national and regional digital ambitions.

However, experts caution that infrastructure investment and regulatory harmonisation across the bloc will be critical. Without reliable data centres, secure connectivity and shared governance standards, AI systems risk remaining fragmented and underutilised.

The Kigali conference is therefore expected to go beyond technical discussions. It will also focus on policy coordination, ethical frameworks and regional cooperation.

If successful, the meeting could lay the foundation for a shared AI strategy that supports trade facilitation, revenue integrity, food security and public service efficiency across East Africa. For the EAC, the promise of AI lies not in abstract technological ambition, but in its capacity to deliver practical solutions to persistent development constraints.

The challenge now is to translate vision into sustained action. .