Category: The Citizen

Washington. US President Donald Trump has said he will not apologise for sharing a social media video that included a racist depiction of former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama.

The video, which was posted on Trump’s Truth Social account, featured a clip portraying the Obamas as apes — a racist stereotype widely condemned as offensive. It appeared at the end of a 62-second montage focused on alleged voter fraud claims linked to the 2020 US presidential election.

The clip was later deleted. Speaking to reporters on Friday, Trump insisted he had done nothing wrong.

“I didn’t make a mistake,” he said when asked whether he planned to apologise. Trump said he had only watched the beginning of the video and that it had been posted by a staff member without him seeing the controversial ending.

“I didn’t see that part,” he added. The post quickly drew criticism from both Democrats and Republicans, with several lawmakers describing it as racist and inappropriate for the presidency.

Republican Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina, who is Black and considered an ally of Trump, said the video was “the most racist thing I’ve seen out of this White House”. “The President should remove it,” he added.

Another Republican, New York Representative Mike Lawler, called the post “wrong and incredibly offensive — whether intentional or a mistake” and said it should be deleted with an apology. Following the backlash, the video was taken down.

A White House official later said a staff member had “erroneously” posted it. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt initially described the clip as an “internet meme video” portraying Trump as the “King of the Jungle” while depicting Democrats as characters from The Lion King.

She urged critics to “stop the fake outrage”. However, criticism continued even after the post was removed.

Utah Republican Senator John Curtis said the video was “blatantly racist and inexcusable” and should never have been posted. According to CBS News, Florida Representative Byron Donalds, a longtime Trump supporter, contacted the White House and was told the incident was the result of a staff error.

The video is believed to have originated from a post on X by a conservative meme creator. It also depicted other prominent Democrats as animals, including New York Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

Former President Joe Biden was also shown as an ape. The Obamas have not publicly commented on the video.

Civil rights groups strongly condemned the post. Derrick Johnson, president of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), described it as “disgusting and utterly despicable,” accusing Trump of attempting to distract the public from other national issues.

Several Democratic leaders also criticised the president. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker said simply: “Donald Trump is a racist,” while California Governor Gavin Newsom’s office called the incident “disgusting behaviour by the president”.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries urged Republicans to denounce what he described as “disgusting bigotry”. The video was one of dozens posted overnight on Trump’s account.

The president said he reviews large amounts of online material and relies on aides to screen content. “We took it down as soon as we found out about it,” he said.

Trump has had a long and contentious history with Obama. Before his first term in office, he repeatedly promoted false claims questioning Obama’s birthplace, which were later discredited.

He eventually acknowledged that Obama was born in the United States. .

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania and Uganda are preparing to begin exporting crude oil to the international market in July, a move leaders from both countries say will serve as a catalyst for a wider programme of major infrastructure, energy and transport projects aimed at strengthening economic cooperation.

Speaking on Saturday at State House in Dar es Salaam, President Samia Suluhu Hassan said the first shipment of crude oil transported from Hoima in western Uganda through the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) to the Port of Tanga in Tanzania is expected to depart in July, marking the operational phase of one of East Africa’s most ambitious cross-border investments. President Hassan said the start of oil exports was not an isolated milestone but part of a broader framework of cooperation being built by the two countries to deepen long-term bilateral ties.

She made the remarks after holding talks with her Ugandan counterpart Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who arrived in the country earlier in the day for a one-day working visit. The two leaders first held private discussions before meeting their respective ministerial teams and later addressing the media.

The visit marked President Museveni’s first foreign trip since his re-election in Uganda’s January 15, 2026 General Election, which secured him a seventh term in office since taking power in 1986. It was also the first visit by a foreign head of state to Tanzania since the October 29, 2025 General Election that returned President Hassan to office. President Hassan said discussions with President Museveni and their teams focused largely on energy and transport infrastructure, reflecting a shared ambition to accelerate economic growth through improved connectivity.

In addition to the crude oil pipeline, the two sides discussed the construction of a natural gas pipeline from Tanzania to Uganda, as well as a refined petroleum products pipeline from Uganda to Tanga. She said progress on EACOP had reached an advanced stage, raising confidence that the first tanker would leave Tanga in July.

“We thank God for the progress we have made. The first ship is likely to depart from Tanga carrying crude oil to the market.

There are other issues we are still working on,” President Hassan said. Ports and logistics cooperation also featured prominently in the talks, underscoring Tanzania’s role as a key maritime gateway for landlocked countries in the region.

President Hassan said the two countries discussed expanded use of the ports of Dar es Salaam, Tanga and Mtwara to support trade flows and energy exports, particularly as oil shipments begin. She noted that investments in port infrastructure were intended to match growing regional demand and ease logistical bottlenecks.

On rail transport, she said Tanzania briefed Uganda on the proposed railway linking Tanga to Musoma, which would allow cargo to connect to Uganda via Lake Victoria. She also outlined progress on the standard gauge railway (SGR) from Isaka to Rusaunga, adding that Tanzania had requested Uganda to extend the line to Murongo on its side of the border to strengthen regional rail integration.

“These rail links are critical in reducing transport costs, easing the movement of goods and supporting trade between our two countries,” she said. President Hassan said the two governments had continued to work on removing non-tariff trade barriers, noting that bilateral trade had expanded significantly in recent years.

She acknowledged, however, that some operational challenges remained, often linked to actions by officials at lower levels. Beyond infrastructure and trade, the talks also covered regional and international diplomacy.

President Hassan thanked President Museveni for Uganda’s decision to withdraw from the contest for the United Nations Security Council seat allocated to East Africa, paving the way for Tanzania to assume the position. She said Tanzania would, in turn, support Uganda’s bid for a leadership role within the African Union.

Regional security, particularly in the Great Lakes region, was also discussed. President Hassan said Tanzania was ready to support President Museveni, who currently chairs the bloc of Great Lakes countries, in efforts to initiate dialogue aimed at restoring stability in conflict-affected areas.

“As chair of the Great Lakes region, President Museveni has a strategy to initiate dialogue to bring peace. Tanzania has assured him of full support and readiness to assist in whatever way is necessary,” she said.

For his part, President Museveni said his talks with President Hassan focused on the need for African countries to deepen strategic and economic cooperation to safeguard development and security. He said Africa’s liberation struggles were anchored on three core objectives: achieving political independence, delivering economic development through production of goods and services, and ensuring strategic security.

“After independence, we need to combine our efforts. There are emerging threats in our region, and it is important that we work together to address them,” President Museveni said.

He stressed that regional integration was no longer a political choice but an economic and security necessity, warning that African countries risk remaining vulnerable if they continue to operate in isolation. Referring to the 1965 Kampala Declaration, President Museveni recalled that East African countries once agreed on a coordinated industrial development framework, under which Tanzania would focus on tyre production, Uganda on textiles and Kenya on other manufacturing activities.

“We need to return to such a structure. I do not know what went wrong, but this kind of coordination is essential if we are to build strong economies,” he said.

President Museveni said regional cooperation should also be viewed through a security lens, noting that instability in one country often spills over into neighbouring states. He warned African nations against repeating historical mistakes, saying the continent was once easily dominated because its leaders failed to recognise and prepare for external threats.

“Some of our traditional leaders saw danger coming but did nothing to defend themselves. We must not repeat that mistake,” he said.

He added that African countries must unite diplomatically and economically, use their natural resources strategically and build collective strength to determine their own future without undue external influence. .

In a setting defined by diplomacy, ambition, and forward thinking, Emmerson Mnangagwa, President of Zimbabwe, recently held wide-ranging discussions with business leader Prateek Suri, Africa’s youngest billionaire and the richest Indian on African soil, with an estimated net worth of $1.9 billion. The meeting reflected more than a formal exchange of views.

It represented a convergence of political leadership and private-sector dynamism at a time when African economies are seeking new pathways to growth, resilience, and global competitiveness. Also present was Tatenda Mavetera, Zimbabwe’s Minister of ICT, whose participation underscored the central role of digital transformation in the country’s long-term development strategy.

Observers noted that the discussions were marked by openness and strategic depth. President Mnangagwa outlined Zimbabwe’s vision of building a diversified, innovation-driven economy capable of attracting global capital while empowering local enterprises.

In response, Suri shared perspectives drawn from his extensive experience in scaling businesses across multiple African markets, emphasising the importance of strong institutions, skilled human capital, and long-term investment planning. Representing Maser Group and its investment arm, MDR Investments, Suri reaffirmed his commitment to jointly investing in Zimbabwe’s priority sectors.

He highlighted opportunities in information and communication technology, startup financing, advanced manufacturing, and infrastructure development under Public-Private Partnership frameworks. These initiatives, he noted, are designed to create sustainable enterprises rather than short-lived ventures.

A central theme of the meeting was the proposed establishment of a Joint Innovation Hub. The facility is envisioned as a platform for nurturing young entrepreneurs through mentorship, venture funding, incubation services, and access to international markets.

With a focus on fintech, artificial intelligence, software development, and digital services, the hub aims to transform local ideas into scalable businesses capable of competing globally. Manufacturing also featured prominently in the dialogue.

Suri expressed interest in supporting modern production units equipped with automation, smart systems, and environmentally responsible processes. Such investments are expected to strengthen domestic value chains, reduce dependence on imports, and enhance Zimbabwe’s export potential within regional and international markets.

Both sides placed strong emphasis on structured collaboration. Public-Private Partnership models were identified as key instruments for delivering industrial parks, technology zones, and large-scale infrastructure projects.

By aligning public policy objectives with private-sector efficiency, these frameworks can ensure balanced and inclusive growth. President Mnangagwa reiterated his administration’s commitment to maintaining policy stability, transparency, and regulatory clarity.

He stressed that Zimbabwe seeks long-term partners who are prepared to contribute capital, expertise, and institutional capacity. Minister Tatenda Mavetera highlighted parallel efforts to expand digital literacy, strengthen cybersecurity, and promote innovation ecosystems, describing global partnerships as essential for preparing Zimbabwe’s youth for the future economy.

Confidence in Suri’s leadership was echoed by Maser Group shareholder Ben Chia, who publicly expressed trust in his vision and investment judgment, describing him as a leader focused on long-term transformation rather than short-term gains. As the meeting concluded, both sides agreed to pursue structured follow-ups to translate strategic intent into concrete projects.

More than a symbolic engagement, the interaction signalled Zimbabwe’s growing readiness to partner with global entrepreneurs. In bringing together political authority and private-sector ambition, the dialogue between President Mnangagwa and Prateek Suri marked another step toward shaping Africa’s next chapter of sustainable growth and innovation.

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Dar es Salaam. The Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Tanzania hosted a two-day chess tournament on Saturday, February 7, 2926 that brought together local and international players, reflecting the growing interest in the game across the country.

Tournament Director Konrad Czernichowski coordinated the event, while Fide-certified arbiter Mustafa Ebrahim supervised the matches to ensure they were conducted in accordance with international standards. Vice Chairman of the Tanzania Chess Association Rashid Mansour Sharif attended the tournament, signalling the federation’s support for efforts aimed at developing the sport.

Head of Mission of the Republic of Poland in Tanzania Mr Sergiusz Wolski welcomed participants and guests, describing the event as an opportunity to strengthen sporting and cultural relations. “Chess is a popular game in Poland with long traditions going back to the 19th century,” said Wolski.

“There are many clubs and many people playing as amateurs, but we also have professional players, some of whom are very successful and win world tournaments.” Mr Wolski, who also competed in the tournament, acknowledged the high level of competition.

“Unfortunately, i haven’t played for a long time and the players are great, so it’s difficult to compete with them,” he said, while praising the overall quality of the tournament. The event was co-organised with the Jordan University Chess Club and attracted players from several regions, including Dar es Salaam, as well as participants from outside Tanzania.

“I didn’t know that there was so much interest in chess here,” Wolski said. “Today we have players from different places in Tanzania but also from outside the country.

We are happy that we can contribute, even a little, to the development of the game in Tanzania through this tournament.” He emphasised the importance of chess in education, particularly for children.

“I’m sure that it’s very beneficial if children play chess. It’s a very strategic game, so it can definitely contribute to the education and development of a young person,” he said.

Reflecting on his school years, he added: “When I was at school in Poland, there were chess clubs, and some children were very engaged. Chess develops strategic thinking and certain abstract skills.

” Mr Wolski noted that while chess should not necessarily be compulsory in schools, expanding access would benefit learners. “I’m not saying it should be obligatory or on a mass scale, but it would definitely be beneficial to have more chess in schools,” he said.

Encouraging beginners, he added: “It’s never too late. The basics are simple.

You can learn the moves of the pieces and pawns in one day.”ing the game to learning a new language, he said: “You can quickly master the basics and reach a point where you can communicate, but then it becomes more and more difficult.

It’s the same with chess.” The tournament brought together players of varying skill levels, promoted cultural exchange, and supported the continued growth of chess in Tanzania.

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There are two types of cardio in Tanzania. The first one is voluntary, jogging, gym, pretending you’ll start on Monday.

The second one is crossing the road. You stand at a zebra crossing.

You look left, right, left, right, left, right then left again. A car is coming.

It does not slow down. The next one swerves slightly, just enough to suggest, I see you but I also have places to be.

A boda boda slices between lanes like it’s auditioning for an action movie. You step back onto the kerb and laugh nervously, because what else can you do? By the time you finally cross, you haven’t just reached the other side of the road.

You’ve survived a small life event. Zebra crossings were meant to be a simple social contracthere, the human being wins.

But on many of our roads, those white stripes are more of a suggestion than a rule, decorative road art with ambitious goals. If patience were a sport, Tanzanian pedestrians would bring home gold medals.

Watch any busy crossing in Dar or any of the big cities. People gather at the edge like they’re waiting for a bus that never comes.

A mother grips her child’s hand tighter with every passing second. A student with headphones around their neck pretends not to be scared.

An older man studies the traffic like he’s solving advanced mathematics. Everyone is waiting for that rare miracle a driver who actually stops.

And when it happens? Confusion. Suspicion.

Eye contact to confirm, Are you sure? Or is this a trick? We have reached a point where basic road courtesy feels like a generous favour. Apart from the crossing drama even begins, there’s the small issue of where pedestrians are supposed to walk in the first place.

In many areas, sidewalks are cracked, narrow, or mysteriously end mid-journey as if the planner simply got tired. Other areas, are occupied by parked cars.

Others have been adopted by small businesses trying to survive. Motorcycles treat them as express lanes.

Add a few open drainage trenches and suddenly the safest place to walk feels like the road. In theory, they should be calmer spaces.

In reality, they’ve become parking lots, shortcut routes, and unofficial terminals. Cars park there.

Others speed through to overtake traffic. Bajajis line up waiting for passengers.

Bodabodas weave through like they’re in a video game. The message to anyone on foot is that this space is also not for you.

At this point, you start to wonder if city planners believe pedestrians have special powers. Maybe we’re expected to teleport from one building to another.

Or grow wings. Or simply float politely above traffic until it clears.

Because clearly, the very basic act of walking, placing one foot in front of the other on solid ground, was not fully considered. We talk a lot about improving transport, but mostly for vehicles.

Meanwhile, the oldest form of movement, using your legs, has been downgraded to a risky hobby. That unspoken hierarchy.

At the top, cars. Then buses.

Then motorcycles. Somewhere near the bottom, just above stray goats, are pedestrians.

Honking at someone already halfway across the zebra crossing has become normal. Drivers inch forward to “encourage” faster crossing, as if the pedestrian is delaying a national emergency.

Motorcyclists zigzag through any gap that looks wider than a school ruler. Speed is treated like a right.

Slowing down is treated like a personal sacrifice. But roads are public spaces, not racetracks.

And in any public space, the most vulnerable people should be the most protected, not the most stressed. Not everyone can afford a car.

Many people walk to daladala stops, to markets, to work, and to school. Children cross busy roads in uniforms two sizes too big.

Elderly people, who cannot run even if they wanted to, stand stranded on road medians like forgotten luggage. Pregnant women and people with disabilities navigate potholes, traffic, and missing pavements with quiet determination.

Meanwhile, those inside vehicles are shielded by metal, glass, and airbags, barely noticing the daily obstacle course outside. Mobility should be a basic right in a city.

Instead, safety often comes down to whether or not you have an engine. Yes, the law says drivers must give way to pedestrians at zebra crossings.

But laws that are not enforced slowly fade into folklore. Drivers get stopped for documents, licences, and compliance stickers, all important.

But how often do we see someone penalised for flying past a zebra crossing while people wait helplessly at the side? If breaking the rule has no consequence, then the rule quietly retires. What we have now is not a system.

It’s a gamble. The frustrating part? None of this requires magic.

Raised zebra crossings that force cars to slow down. Clear, protected sidewalks.

Working pedestrian lights in busy areas. Serious enforcement near schools and markets.

These are not luxury ideas for futuristic cities. They are basic signs of a society that values human life over arrival times.

A zebra crossing should mean certainty. You step forward, cars stop.

Simple. Predictable.

Safe. Right now, for many Tanzanians, it means hesitation.

Eye contact. Calculations.

A quick prayer. A truly modern city is not measured by how fast cars can move but by how safely a child can cross the street.

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Dar es Salaam. The government said the cutting-edge analysis technology launched at the Kairuki IVF Centre will greatly benefit the nation by improving access to advanced fertility services and increasing the chances for couples to have children.

Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary, Dr Seif Shekalaghe, on Friday, February 6, 2026, graced the launch of an advanced laser technology machine at the Kairuki Green IVF Centre, Bunju A, in Dar es Salaam. The technology is designed to enhance embryo analysis during transfer procedures.

Delivering his remarks, Dr Shekalaghe said the government cannot do everything alone, noting that it is encouraging when institutions like the Kairuki Green IVF Centre step in to support national priorities. “Through the KHEN network, you have established a hospital, a pharmaceutical factory, a university and now a modern IVF centre.

This is a major milestone worthy of pride,” he remarked. The launch coincided with the commemoration of the late Prof Hubert Kairuki, founder of Kairuki Hospital, Kairuki University and the KHEN Network, who died in 1999, as well as marking three years since the establishment of the IVF centre in 2023. “I am pleased to see the legacy of the late Prof Kairuki being carried forward with such commitment and efficiency,” added Dr Shekalaghe.

“The work you are doing significantly supports the government’s efforts in the health sector. We congratulate you for your continued contribution and assure you of our ongoing collaboration,” he said.

The Kairuki Green IVF Centre Director, Dr Clementina Kairuki, said the centre has so far enabled the birth of more than 140 children, some of whom have already started kindergarten. She explained that the celebration was also intended to honour the late Prof Kairuki, whose vision inspired the establishment of the centre.

“In 1990, the late Prof Kairuki and his wife, Kokushubira, attended a health conference in Denmark where they were impressed by the fertility services offered there,” she said. “On their return, they conceived the idea of establishing an embryo transfer service in Tanzania.

Unfortunately, before the dream could be realised, Prof Kairuki passed away in 1999,” she added. Dr Kairuki noted that those who carried on his legacy resolved to fulfil that vision, culminating in the inauguration of the centre in February, three years ago, by the President of Zanzibar, Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi.

Since its establishment, the centre has received 1,205 couples seeking fertility treatment, noting that of these, 501 qualified for embryo transfer services, while 205 underwent the procedure. She said 60 percent of the couples have successfully achieved pregnancy, resulting in 140 births so far, with several more pregnancies ongoing.

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A US jury has ordered ride-hailing company Uber to pay $8.5 million (about Sh22 billion) in compensation after finding it liable in a lawsuit filed by a woman who said she was sexually assaulted by one of its drivers when she was 19. The verdict, delivered on Thursday, could influence thousands of similar cases facing the company across the US. The case, filed by Jaylynn Dean, was the first “bellwether” trial among more than 3,000 similar lawsuits consolidated in federal court.

Bellwether trials are used to test legal arguments and help determine possible settlement values in large groups of cases. A federal court jury in Phoenix, Arizona, ruled that the driver acted as an agent of Uber, making the company responsible for his actions.

Dean was awarded $8.5 million in compensatory damages. The jury declined to award punitive damages, although her lawyers had sought more than $140 million.

Following the verdict, Uber’s shares fell by 1.5 percent in after-hours trading, while rival Lyft — which also faces similar lawsuits — dropped by 1.

8 percent. In a statement, an Uber spokesperson said the company plans to appeal the decision and noted that the jury rejected other claims that Uber was negligent or that its safety systems were defective.

“This verdict affirms that Uber acted responsibly and has invested meaningfully in rider safety,” the spokesperson said. Dean’s attorney, Sarah London, said the decision validates thousands of survivors who have come forward seeking accountability from the company.

Dean, who lives in Oklahoma, filed the lawsuit in 2023, one month after the alleged assault in Arizona. She argued that Uber knew about reports of sexual assaults by drivers but failed to take basic steps to improve passenger safety.

During closing arguments, another lawyer for Dean, Alexandra Walsh, said Uber marketed itself as a safe option for women, especially at night or after drinking. “Women know it’s a dangerous world.

We know about the risk of sexual assault,” Walsh said. “They made us believe that this was a place that was safe from that.

” Uber denies responsibility Uber has long faced criticism over safety concerns, including claims of weak driver vetting and prioritising rapid growth over passenger protection. The company argues it should not be held liable for criminal acts committed by drivers, saying they are independent contractors, not employees.

It also says its background checks and safety disclosures are adequate. During the trial, Uber’s lawyer Kim Bueno said the driver had no criminal record, had completed 10,000 trips and had a near-perfect passenger rating.

“Was this foreseeable to Uber? And the answer to that has to be no,” she said. According to the lawsuit, Dean was intoxicated when she requested an Uber ride from her boyfriend’s home to her hotel.

She alleged that the driver asked harassing questions, stopped the car and raped her. The case was overseen by US District Judge Charles Breyer, who is handling all similar federal cases against Uber.

The company is also facing more than 500 cases in California state court. In one California case that went to trial, a jury sided with Uber, ruling that although the company had been negligent, that negligence was not a major factor in the woman’s harm.

Morningstar analyst Mark Giarelli said the ruling highlights the need for stronger background checks for ride-hailing and delivery platforms. “This underscores the importance of robust background checks on convenience applications such as Uber, Lyft and DoorDash where there is interaction between customers and drivers,” he said.

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Dar es Salaam. Dar es Salaam Swimming Club (DSC) swimmers begin their quest for medals, trophies and personal best times today when they take part in the Dubai Open Swimming Championships at the Hamdan Sports Complex in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Regarded as one of the biggest swimming events in the region, the championship attracts a strong international field, with swimmers expected from different clubs across the world. For DSC, the three-day meet provides a major opportunity to test their readiness against high-level opposition while gaining valuable exposure in a competitive environment.

DSC has travelled with a 10-member squad under the guidance of Coach Kanisi Mabena, with nine swimmers entered in the Junior Championships and one athlete set to compete in the Senior Championships. The swimmers representing the club are Camilla Kyenekiki, Iris Mattaka, Jamila Masoud, Moza Masoud, Ola Kimaro, Tamera Matuja, Anika James, Vihana Divecha, Hayaan Divecha and Remi Chande.

Coach Kanisi said the team is in high spirits and ready to give their best as they take on the challenge in Dubai. He noted that the championship will not only be about podium finishes, but also about improving race execution and building confidence in a meet known for its depth and quality.

“Our swimmers are in top morale and they are determined to perform well,” said Kanisi. “This competition gives them the chance to gain experience, sharpen their racing skills and compete in a highly competitive environment.

We believe it will help them grow.” The club’s head of delegation, Inviolata Itatiro, said DSC is proud to be part of the championship and thanked parents for the trust they have shown by allowing their children to travel and compete abroad.

She also pointed out that some parents have travelled with the team, a move she believes will boost motivation and provide extra comfort to the swimmers. “As DSC, we are proud to be part of the Dubai Open Swimming Championships and we are grateful to the parents who entrusted us with their children,” said Inviolata.

“Their support means a lot, and having some of them travel with us gives the swimmers extra confidence and motivation. We are excited for the competition and we will keep sharing updates throughout the event.

” The Junior Championships will feature age categories for girls aged 9, 10 and 11, while boys will compete in the 9, 10, 11 and 12 groups. Junior swimmers will contest 50m events across all strokes, 100m events across all strokes, the 200m Individual Medley and the 200m Freestyle, with entry based on qualifying times that allow only the fastest swimmers into each race.

In the junior programme, the 50m events accept the fastest 50 female and fastest 50 male entries, while the 100m events take the fastest 40 female and fastest 40 male swimmers. The 200m Individual Medley and 200m Freestyle are limited to the fastest 30 female and fastest 30 male entries, reflecting the competitive standards of the meet.

All junior events will be run under a heat-declared winner format, meaning swimmers must deliver their best performances in the heats, as final positions are determined by the fastest overall times rather than head-to-head finals. This system places extra emphasis on sharp starts, efficient turns and strong finishes.

DSC will also feature in the Senior Championships, which include girls aged 12 to 13, 14 to 15 and 16 and over, while boys will compete in the 13 to 14, 15 to 16 and 17 and over categories. Senior swimmers will race in the 50m, 100m and 200m events in all strokes, alongside the 200m and 400m Individual Medley, as well as longer races including the 400m Freestyle, 800m Freestyle and 1500m Freestyle.

Hosted by Hamilton Aquatics, the Dubai Open Swimming Championships has grown steadily since it began in 2011 to become one of the region’s leading swimming competitions. The 2025 edition attracted around 1,300 swimmers from more than 30 nations, underlining the global reach of the event and the scale of competition facing DSC in Dubai.

With action starting today, DSC will be aiming to make an impact in the pool, chase improved times and gain valuable international experience as they compete against some of the best young talents on the circuit. .

Beijing. China said on Friday it was open to dialogue with Lithuania after the Baltic nation’s prime minister described as a “mistake” its 2021 decision to let Taiwan set up a de facto embassy in the capital of Vilnius.

Lithuania had begun taking “small first steps” to restore ties, Inga Ruginiene, who became prime minister last September, told Baltic News Service on Tuesday. “The door for communication between China and Lithuania remains open,” Lin Jian, a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry, told a regular news conference.

“We hope Lithuania will translate its willingness to improve bilateral relations into concrete actions, and promptly rectify its error,” he said. China downgraded relations with Lithuania in late 2021 after the nation of 2.

9 million let Taiwan open a “Taiwanese” representative office on its soil. Beijing views Taiwan as a Chinese province with no right to set up such offices in countries with which China has formal ties.

In contrast to Lithuania, countries such as Australia, Britain and the United States host offices that are usually known as “Taipei” representative offices, which avoids the implication of statehood and sovereignty. Since the breakdown, Lithuania has recalled its ambassador in China and other diplomats.

In late 2024, it expelled three Chinese diplomats in the country’s Office of the Charge d’Affaires. Last year, China banned Lithuanian banks UAB Urbo Bankas and AB Mano Bankas from transactions and cooperation with domestic organisations and individuals.

“I think Lithuania really jumped in front of a train and lost,” Ruginiene told the news service in an interview. Taiwan and Lithuania are important partners with shared values of freedom and democracy, and both sides agreed the name of the office, the foreign ministry in Taipei said on Thursday.

“Since the office was established, Taiwan and the Lithuanian government have continued to promote mutually beneficial, substantive cooperation,” it said. Taiwan would keep up close coordination and communication to deepen ties with Lithuania, it added.

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Arusha. The government, through the Ministry of Agriculture, has successfully registered 408 Tanzanian companies in the system of China’s General Administration of Customs (GACC), allowing these firms to export agricultural produce to the Chinese market.

The Chinese market is among the largest and most competitive in the world, where the Ministry of Agriculture, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation and the government of the People’s Republic of China, coordinated the registration of these companies. Addressing journalists on Friday, February 6, 2026, the Tanzania Plant Health and Pesticides Authority (TPHPA) director, Prof Joseph Ndunguru, said the registration is a major step for the country and will help increase the value of agricultural produce, boost foreign trade, and strengthen the economy.

He said the companies must comply with plant health requirements, proper use of pesticides, monitoring and inspection procedures before exporting products. “This registration is part of implementing the Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS) and trade agreements between the two countries, aimed at ensuring exported produce meets the plant health, quality and food safety standards demanded by the Chinese market,” said Prof Ndunguru.

He added that the authority will continue regular inspections and monitoring to ensure compliance with national and international standards. “I call on all stakeholders to continue cooperating and adhering to existing laws, regulations and guidelines to ensure Tanzania fully benefits from Chinese market opportunities.

This will increase agricultural exports, boost farmers’ incomes, and contribute to national revenue,” he said. Prof Ndunguru noted that the authority will continue monitoring and training farmers producing the crops to ensure they meet international market standards and requirements, and avoid pesticide residues.

Earlier, TPHPA manager for market and agricultural products, Dr Mahmoud Sasamalo, listed the produce approved for export, including cocoa, soybeans, avocado, cassava, groundnuts, pepper, cloves, cashew nuts, coffee, peanuts, as well as sunflower and cotton seeds. He urged traders to follow all legal procedures and warned that violators would face action according to the law.

The authority’s pesticides director, Dr Osaingi Shila, said they are prepared to continue providing guidance and services, noting that border points will have small laboratories conducting preliminary tests to allow cargo to enter and exit without delays. .