Category: The Citizen

Dar es Salaam. Zanzibar’s exports of goods and services rose sharply in the year ending February 2026, underpinned by robust service receipts and a bumper clove harvest, the Bank of Tanzania (BoT) has reported.

According to the latest figures, total exports increased by 25.5 percent to $1.63 billion, up from the level recorded in the corresponding period in 2025. Service receipts continued to dominate the export basket, accounting for 94.9 percent of total exports, highlighting the sustained contribution of sectors such as tourism and transport to foreign exchange earnings. Meanwhile, exports of goods more than doubled to $82.2 million, driven largely by traditional crops.

Cloves, in particular, registered strong performance following a bumper harvest during the review period. On a month-on-month basis, exports also posted growth, rising to $151.3 million in February 2026 from $138.7 million in February 2025. On the import side, Zanzibar recorded a notable increase, with the value of goods and services imports rising by 22.8 percent to $743.9 million in the year ending February 2026. The BoT attributed the rise primarily to increased inflows of capital and consumer goods.

Imports of capital goods were driven by higher demand for industrial transport equipment, signalling continued investment in productive sectors of the economy. At the same time, the increase in consumer goods imports was linked to higher demand for non-industrial transport equipment and other consumer items, including footwear and related products.

Month-on-month data also showed a significant jump in imports, which rose to $64.6 million in February 2026 from $40.4 million recorded in the same month last year. The latest trade figures point to sustained economic activity, with both external demand and domestic consumption contributing to the upward trajectory in trade volumes.

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Dar es Salaam. A groundbreaking study has identified 102 medicinal plant species used by traditional health practitioners (THPs) to manage sickle cell disease (SCD) in the Lake Zone, marking a significant step towards integrating indigenous knowledge with modern medicine.

The research, titled Ethnopharmacological survey of medicinal plants traditionally used to manage sickle cell disease in Mwanza and Mara Regions, Tanzania, was authored by Godfrey Sambayi, Rogers Mwakalukwa, Olipa D. Ngassapa, Luc Pieters, and Emmy Tuenter.

Sickle cell disease remains a major public health challenge in Tanzania, which ranks third in Africa for the number of patients living with the inherited blood disorder. On average, about 11,000 infants are born with the condition annually in the country, placing a heavy burden on families and the broader healthcare system.

While specialised clinics exist at Muhimbili National Hospital and Bugando Medical Centre, these facilities are largely concentrated in urban centres, leaving rural populations with limited access to affordable care. Consequently, many patients in low-income settings rely on herbal medicines as a primary alternative for managing the disease and its complications, including severe pain episodes and chronic anaemia.

Traditional medicine remains widely trusted in rural communities due to its accessibility and deep cultural acceptance. The survey focused on the Mwanza and Mara regions, areas known for a high prevalence of SCD, as researchers targeted five district councils: Magu and Misungwi in Mwanza, and Bunda, Butiama, and Musoma in Mara.

“The research team conducted in-depth interviews with 37 THPs selected for their documented experience in treating the condition,” reads part of the report. The methodology involved semi-structured interviews combined with field visits to collect plant specimens.

The collected samples were later authenticated and classified by professional botanists at the University of Dar es Salaam to ensure scientific accuracy and proper identification. “The study documented 102 plant species belonging to 39 taxonomic families.

The Fabaceae family was the most frequently cited, accounting for 24 percent of the plants used, followed by the Anacardiaceae family at six percent. Notable species identified include Kigelia africana (sausage tree), Mangifera indica (mango), and Cymbopogon citratus (lemongrass),” another part of the report reads.

The most commonly used plant parts were roots, representing 40 percent of the remedies, followed by leaves at 33 percent. Researchers also found that decoction was the preferred preparation method, accounting for 55 percent of treatments, while 90 percent of remedies were administered orally.

“A literature review confirmed that 15 of the identified plants are already recognised in other regions for their anti-sickling, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties,” the report reveals. which help alleviate symptoms such as bone pain and jaundice,” reveals the report.

The researchers expressed concern over the heavy reliance on roots, noting that such harvesting practices are environmentally unsustainable and may threaten the survival of certain species. “Most THPs collect plants from the wild rather than cultivating them.

Seasonal shortages of leaves often push practitioners to harvest roots, which are available year-round but carry greater ecological risks,” cautions the report. The survey represents the first formal scientific documentation of medicinal plants used specifically for SCD in Tanzania.

The findings provide preliminary support for traditional treatments and offer a foundation for future research into new bioactive compounds. “The study recommends systematic documentation of traditional medical knowledge and calls for controlled clinical trials to isolate active compounds,” reads the document.

It also suggests establishing botanical gardens and community seed banks to conserve endangered species. Finally it recommends that practitioners should be educated on responsible harvesting techniques to ensure the continued availability of medicinal resources.

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Tanzania’s pageant calendar is set for a major highlight this month, with two high-profile events scheduled in Dar es Salaam this month. These include the Miss World Tanzania 2026 Final on April 19, followed by the Miss Grand Tanzania 2026 auditions on April 25. The season reflects Tanzania’s continued efforts to strengthen its presence in international beauty pageants.

Miss World Tanzania is expected to be a glamorous evening featuring finalists from mainland Tanzania, Zanzibar, and various institutions. Organisers indicate that the show will run in the evening, with a live audience and a panel of judges responsible for selecting the winner.

In an official invitation, organisers described the event as a celebration of purpose and elegance. Share, “Experience an unforgettable evening of beauty, elegance, and purpose at the Miss World Tanzania Final taking place on April 19, at Super Dome, Masaki.

Join us as we celebrate intelligence, talent, and confidence while crowning the next queen who will represent the United Republic of Tanzania on the global stage.” This year’s edition is being positioned as one of the most structured national Miss World franchise finals in Tanzania, with strong emphasis on the international Beauty With a Purpose platform, which highlights advocacy and community impact alongside stage performance.

The winner will go on to represent Tanzania at the Miss World 2026 global competition, widely regarded as one of the most prestigious pageants in the world. Just days after the Miss World final, attention will return to The Super Dome on April 25, 2026, for the Miss Grand Tanzania auditions.

These auditions serve as the official entry point for contestants aiming to compete for the Miss Grand Tanzania title and represent the country at Miss Grand International. The auditions will include registration and screening, catwalk assessments, and short interviews focused on confidence, personality, and advocacy.

Successful participants will advance to the next stage, which includes national bootcamp selection or finalist placement. Tanzanian artiste Abigail Chams will headline the auditions as the official performer, adding a musical highlight to the pageant experience.

Miss Grand Tanzania operates under the global Miss Grand International system, which emphasises stage presence and advocacy campaigns promoting peace while opposing conflict and violence. While Tanzania’s participation continues to grow, the platform is still developing its competitive presence on the international stage.

The scheduling of both events at the same venue within the same month highlights the growing momentum in Tanzania’s entertainment and fashion industries, where pageantry is increasingly blending performance, culture, and youth development. April 2026 is shaping up to be a defining month for Tanzania’s representation on global beauty and creative platforms.

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Dar es Salaam. A young Tanzanian footballer, Joseph Jr Michael Joseph, popularly known as JJ, is steadily carving his path in European football after earning a place in the youth ranks of RC Celta de Vigo, emerging as one of the early success stories of the club’s international talent development programme.

The 2008-born prospect has secured a place in Celta’s U19 B side after nearly three years of structured development under the A Canteira Experience initiative, a programme designed to nurture and integrate young players into the club’s philosophy. Joseph’s journey began in Tanzania at Magnet Youth Sports, the academy where he was first identified and developed.

His breakthrough marks a significant milestone, not only in his personal career but also in reinforcing Tanzania’s growing reputation as a source of promising football talent. His progress reflects the broader ambitions of the Celta360 project, which seeks to open the Spanish club’s academy system to players from across the world.

Through the initiative, young footballers are immersed in the daily routines of a professional European setup, training under the same methodology as the club’s youth teams while competing in a highly demanding environment. Speaking to the club’s media, Joseph described his transition from Tanzania to Spain as both challenging and transformative.

“The expectations were high when I arrived in Vigo through this project, but once I joined the club, they were even higher than I had imagined,” he said. “With time, I adapted thanks to the support system around me.

This experience has changed my perspective because I feel I have grown in many aspects of my life.” His promotion to the U19 B team highlights the programme’s long-term vision of identifying international prospects, guiding their adaptation to a new football culture, and ultimately providing a pathway into competitive European structures.

Beyond football, A Canteira Experience places strong emphasis on holistic development. Participants combine training with formal education, including secondary studies and international academic programmes offered in Vigo and its metropolitan area.

Language learning and cultural integration are also key components, helping players adjust smoothly to life in Spain. Since its launch, the initiative has attracted nearly 400 players from more than 50 countries, including Brazil, Germany, Japan, the United States and several African nations.

However, Joseph’s rise stands out as a clear example of the programme delivering tangible results. His journey is expected to inspire many young Tanzanian players, where the dream of playing in Europe often lacks clear pathways.

By turning exposure into a concrete opportunity, Joseph has demonstrated that such ambitions are achievable with the right platform, discipline and support. As global football continues to expand its scouting networks, stories like Joseph’s underline the importance of structured international programmes in unlocking talent from emerging markets.

For Tanzania, his breakthrough could signal the beginning of a new chapter, one in which more young players step onto the global stage. .

Dar es Salaam. Defending champions Young Africans (Yanga) tightened their grip at the top of the Mainland Premier League standings after a convincing 3-0 victory over Pamba Jiji FC at CCM Kirumba Stadium yesterday.

Yanga delivered a commanding performance, controlling the tempo from the opening whistle and pinning their hosts deep inside their own half. Their bright start paid off in the eighth minute when Mudathir Yahya opened the scoring with a composed finish after a well-weighted pass from Allan Okello.

The visitors continued to dominate possession, displaying fluid movement and sharp, incisive passing in midfield. Their superiority was evident as they created a series of chances, stretching Pamba Jiji’s defense and forcing them into mistakes.

Mudathir struck again in the 33rd minute, calmly slotting home his second goal of the match after yet another intelligent assist from Okello, who proved to be the creative heartbeat of the team. Pamba Jiji struggled to cope with Yanga’s pace and attacking combinations, often resorting to clearing their lines under pressure.

While they showed moments of resilience, they found it difficult to mount meaningful attacks or test Yanga’s defence. After the break, Yanga maintained their attacking approach, refusing to ease off despite holding a comfortable lead.

Their persistence was rewarded when Maxi Nzengeli added the third goal, finishing off a well-constructed move that once again involved Okello, who capped an outstanding performance with his third assist of the match. The result sees Yanga move to 44 points from 18 matches, extending their lead at the top of the table.

They are now nine points clear of Simba SC, who have 35 points from 16 matches, while Azam FC sit third with 33 points from 17 games. Despite the convincing scoreline, Yanga could have registered a bigger win, having created numerous clear-cut chances throughout the encounter.

However, a lack of clinical finishing at times denied them the opportunity to further inflate the score. In the first match played at 2pm, Singida Black Stars secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over KMC FC at the Airtel Stadium in Singida Region.

The decisive goal came in the 70th minute through Lamin Jarjou, whose strike ensured all three points for the home side. The result lifted Singida Black Stars to fifth place on the league table with 28 points from 18 matches, strengthening their push in the mid-table battle.

In contrast, KMC continued to struggle at the bottom, remaining on eight points after eight matches, with concerns mounting over their form and ability to climb out of the relegation zone. League action continues today with two key fixtures scheduled to kick off at 4pm.

Simba SC will be away to TRA United at the Sheikh Amri Abeid Stadium in Arusha, while Azam FC travel to the CCM Solkoine Stadium to face Mbeya City FC. Both matches carry significant importance as teams look to improve their positions in the standings.

Simba, currently second with 35 points from 16 matches, will be aiming for victory to close the gap on league leaders. .

Dar es Salaam. For more than two decades, Getrude Mallya has moved through the corridors of Tanzania’s banking industry with determination, grace, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Today, she serves as the Head of Private Banking at NMB Bank Plc, a role that reflects not only her expertise but also a journey that began from the very foundation of the banking profession. Her career started at the teller counter when she joined NMB as a junior officer.

In those early days, she handled routine transactions, assisted customers, and learned the mechanics of banking from the front line. Yet what might have seemed like a modest beginning became the training ground for her leadership philosophy.

It was there that she discovered the importance of continuous learning, perseverance, and teamwork. The experiences she gathered at that stage, she says, quietly shaped the professional she would become.

Looking back, Getrude recognises that the road was not always smooth. There were challenges, setbacks, and moments that tested her resolve.

However, rather than discouraging her, these experiences became valuable lessons. Each difficulty, she believes, offered an opportunity to grow stronger and wiser.

Mentorship also played a vital role in her journey. The guidance and encouragement she received from experienced professionals helped her navigate the complexities of the financial sector and develop confidence in her abilities.

As her career progressed, Getrude witnessed remarkable changes within the banking industry. Over the years, she has seen the sector evolve from largely manual operations to highly sophisticated digital systems.

Transactions that once required paperwork and physical processes are now completed through advanced technology and online platforms. At the same time, customer expectations have grown more complex as individuals and businesses seek tailored financial solutions.

Competition among financial institutions has also intensified, with banks striving to offer better services, innovative products, and stronger customer relationships. Alongside these changes, regulatory frameworks have become more rigorous as authorities work to manage risks and maintain stability within the financial system.

Through all these shifts, Getrude has remained adaptable, a quality she believes is essential for anyone working in modern banking. Her professional path has taken her through several major financial institutions in Tanzania.

In addition to NMB, she has served at Barclays Bank Tanzania, which is now Absa, as well as NBC and CBA, now known as NCBA. Across these organisations, she held a range of senior roles that allowed her to develop expertise in multiple areas of banking.

Among the positions she held were Retail Banking Manager, Business Development Manager for SME Banking, Head of Private Banking, and Head of Branch Network. In many of these roles, she was not only responsible for managing operations but also for building new initiatives.

At CBA, she played a key role in initiating two significant projects. One involved establishing a Private Banking unit designed to serve high-net-worth clients with specialised financial services.

The other focused on developing Visa debit and credit card products, expanding the bank’s offerings and improving convenience for customers. When she returned to NMB, she continued to demonstrate her capacity for innovation.

She conceptualised and launched the bank’s Private Banking department, which now serves some of Tanzania’s high-net-worth individuals. This division focuses on providing personalised financial solutions and dedicated advisory services for clients with complex financial needs.

She also contributed to the launch of Diaspora Banking, an initiative designed to serve Tanzanians living abroad by connecting them with financial opportunities at home. At the heart of her work lies a deep commitment to creating meaningful solutions for customers.

She explains that her motivation to lead new initiatives comes from a genuine desire to improve the banking experience. For her, innovation is not just about introducing new products but about ensuring that those products truly benefit customers while also strengthening the institution offering them.

However, reaching senior leadership has not been without challenges, particularly as a woman working in demanding and high-pressure roles. One of the most difficult aspects, she acknowledges, has been managing work-life integration.

Balancing professional responsibilities with personal commitments can be overwhelming, and she believes the idea of achieving perfect balance is often unrealistic. Instead, she has learned to focus on what matters most and to rely on a strong support system.

Over time, she developed strategies that help her maintain resilience and sustain high performance. These include cultivating self-awareness, making time for rest and exercise, maintaining mindful eating habits, and practicing spiritual disciplines such as prayer and fasting.

Together, these habits help her maintain clarity, remain calm under pressure, and approach challenges with hope and perspective. Beyond her own career, Getrude is deeply committed to supporting the next generation of professionals.

As a mentor and coach, she dedicates time to guiding young women who aspire to work in banking and finance. She believes mentorship is essential because it helps build confidence and prepares young professionals for the realities of the workplace.

In her view, mentorship also helps uncover what she describes as the “hidden curriculum” of professional life. This includes understanding workplace dynamics, learning how to negotiate salaries, building networks, and finding sponsors who are willing to advocate for one’s advancement.

She encourages young professionals to develop resilience, continuously improve their skills, and build strategic relationships that will support their growth. Working closely with high-net-worth clients has also strengthened her understanding of trust, which she considers the cornerstone of private banking.

Managing the financial affairs of individuals and families requires more than technical knowledge. It demands integrity, authenticity, and a genuine commitment to the client’s best interests.

For Getrude, building trust involves listening carefully to clients, maintaining transparency, and demonstrating reliability in every interaction. It also means handling sensitive information with discretion and consistency, especially during periods of uncertainty or pressure.

As clients’ businesses and personal circumstances evolve, she believes a trusted banker must evolve with them, providing guidance that reflects their changing needs. Yet perhaps her most passionate message is directed toward young Tanzanian women who dream of building careers in banking and finance.

She wants them to know that they belong in the industry and that their ambitions are valid. According to her, success begins with believing in one’s abilities and building confidence from within.

She encourages young women to stay connected to their roots, sharpen their skills, seek mentors and sponsors, and read widely to expand their understanding of the world. Approaching challenges with curiosity and an open mind, she says, is equally important.

She is honest that the journey will not always be easy. There will be moments of doubt, days when expectations feel overwhelming, and times when opportunities seem out of reach.

Rejection and setbacks are part of every professional path. However, she reminds young women that perseverance can transform those experiences into stepping stones.

Ultimately, she believes that every achievement, whether a certification, a promotion, or a successful client relationship, contributes to something much larger. Each milestone becomes part of a story that future generations will read and draw inspiration from.

Through her words and example, Getrude emphasises that building a career is not only about personal success but also about creating a legacy. By rising, leading, and excelling, she believes today’s professionals can open doors for those who will follow.

Her message is clear and powerful, the financial sector needs the brilliance, integrity, courage, and compassion of young women. The future of finance has space for everyone bold enough to pursue it and for those who succeed, the responsibility is to lift others along the way.

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The pervasive issue of illicit alcohol trade in Tanzania is not only costing the government over Sh1trillion annually in lost revenue but also posing severe public health risks and undermining legitimate businesses. A recent interview with Tanzania Breweries Limited (TBL) Managing Director, Michelle Kilpin ,sheds light on the alarming statistics and the urgent need for a concerted effort from all stakeholders to tackle this growing problem.

Illicit alcohol trade has multilayered effects, impacting the economy, investment, and posing grave health risks. What is your assessment of the current situation of illicit alcohol in Tanzania? A recent study by Euromonitor established that 61 percent of all alcohol consumed in Tanzania is illicit.

This has multilayered impacts: we see tax revenue leakage to the tune of Sh1 trillion annually, and illicit alcohol is often of poor quality and unregulated, creating significant public health risks and a burden on our healthcare system. For the industry, it creates an unfair playing field, as illicit dealers avoid taxes, making it difficult for compliant businesses to compete while delivering safe, quality products.

Illicit alcohol consumption has grown by 6 percent since 2017, from 55 percent to 61 percent, outpacing the legal market. What does that mean for the industry and consumers? This poses a real risk for consumers regarding the safety and quality of what they are consuming.

It’s also a risk for society from a public health perspective. The fact that it has grown since the previous study eight years ago is extremely concerning.

This situation clearly demands a multi-stakeholder approach to address it very seriously. The industry often argues that high excise taxes are fueling illicit trade.

Are current alcohol taxes in Tanzania too high? The fight against illicit alcohol isn’t solely about taxation. However, we have observed that sharp and rapid increases in excise levels lead to a significant price disparity between formal, compliant alcohol and illicit alternatives.

If this price gap becomes too wide, illicit alcohol becomes more attractive to consumers. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that excise increases and taxation on compliant companies are predictable and inflation-related, preventing price shocks that inadvertently make illicit alcohol more accessible and affordable.

Beyond taxes, a stable and predictable regulatory environment, coupled with strong enforcement, is essential. From an industry perspective, we also have a responsibility to raise awareness and educate retailers and consumers about the illicit alcohol.

As Tanzania prepares for national budget discussions in parliament, what discussions are you having with the government around the importance of taxation and how to curb illicit alcohol trade through legal instruments? We understand and respect the government’s need to tax our industry to fund development projects. However, excessive excise increases can lead to a price disparity, with the burden passed to consumers.

While higher prices for compliant alcohol might be seen as a deterrent to excessive consumption, our experience shows that consumers don’t necessarily stop consuming; they often switch to cheaper, unregulated alternatives like homemade or smuggled alcohol. This is the balance we seek to achieve in our discussions with the government.

How effective are these taxes on imported products in promoting local production? One key area we focus on is excise incentives for products made locally with local crops. This has been a significant driver for companies like TBL to utilize local crops such as sorghum, maize, and barley in our products, allowing us to price them more attractively.

Higher consumption of local products enables greater investment in local production, serves more consumers, and ultimately contributes more tax revenue to the government. These are the positive impacts of Tanzania’s tax regime in incentivizing investors to use local crops.

What is the biggest factor leading to high cost of production is it taxes or access to raw materials? Looking at our core beer products, the current global situation introduces significant uncertainty regarding commodity prices, including fuel and fertilizers. As a business, we must find ways to manage these headwinds.

What threat does the war in the Middle East pose to the beverage industry in Tanzania? The most immediate impact will likely be on our costs. We anticipate a jump in fuel prices, which will directly affect distribution.

However, the duration and severity of this situation remain uncertain. Perhaps there needs to be discussions with the government on how to mitigate the impact.

The biggest cushion would be if inflation remains under control. For many Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) businesses, disposable income is crucial.

If consumers are spending more on other necessities, they will have less disposable income for discretionary purchases like a cold beer at the end of the day. Tanzania loses over Sh1 trillion every year in uncollected revenue, mainly from untaxed artisanal brews.

How much more tax revenue is the government potentially going to lose every year because of illicit alcohol? It’s difficult to quantify the exact additional loss. However, I believe we should approach this from a different perspective: instead of focusing on how much more we might lose, we should concentrate on how we can rapidly reduce that existing Sh1 trillion loss and collectively clamp down on this problem as an industry, government, and society.

There have been cases where illicit alcohol caused serious illness and deaths. Beyond regulation, what else needs to be implemented as an effective solution? Sadly, this occurs across the region.

Documented cases show consumers suffering severe consequences, including death, blindness, and liver damage, from unsafe, unregulated alcohol. To address this, a multi-stakeholder approach is vital.

We need appropriate regulations, policies, and robust enforcement against smugglers and counterfeiters, alongside driving consumer awareness about the risks and impacts of illicit alcohol. What risks does illicit trade pose to investment and job creation in the formal sector? When we consider investments, especially capital-intensive ones, we seek a quick and sustainable return on investment.

The presence of illicit alcohol trade is a significant concern and a substantial risk from an investment perspective. If you had the opportunity to advise policymakers directly, what three actions would most effectively reduce illicit alcohol in Tanzania? Firstly, enforcement.

We need strong enforcement of laws coupled with appropriate penalties for perpetrators. Secondly, we must ensure stable and predictable taxation from an excise perspective, linked to inflation.

Thirdly, as an industry, we need to collectively raise the level of awareness among consumers and retailers about the risks and impacts of illicit alcohol. What is the biggest obstacle to finding a solution to illicit alcohol? There are many challenges, including counterfeiters operating with impunity, potentially porous borders, and persistent consumer demand for cheaper alcohol.

All these factors contribute to the proliferation of illicit alcohol. Ultimately, what is at stake for Tanzania if illicit alcohol continues to grow unchecked? In a worst-case scenario, we could see a total degradation of society, formal businesses closing down, and tragic loss of life.

Sustainability is at the heart of everything in today’s world. Could you elaborate on TBL’s broader sustainability initiatives? Sustainability is fundamental to TBL.

We focus on critical areas like water stewardship and circular packaging. Over 90 percent of everything we sell is in a returnable bottle, which we reuse along with the crates.

Furthermore, our recent partnership with Petprotz is a significant step towards collecting and recycling non-returnable glass from the market, bringing it back into the circular economy. These initiatives underscore our commitment to environmental responsibility and resource efficiency across our operations.

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Dar es Salaam. The Tanzania Court of Appeal has annulled part of the judgment in the defamation case in which former Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, the late Benard Membe was awarded Sh6 billion.

A three-judge panel Ferdinand Wambali, Lucia Kairo and Dr Deo Nangela ordered that the case file be returned to the High Court in Dar es Salaam, to be reheard from the point where witnesses began giving their testimony. The ruling, issued on April 2, 2026, and posted online yesterday, followed an appeal by Cyprian Musiba, the respondent and the editor of the Tanzanite newspaper, which Musiba owns.

The case involved CZ Information and Media Consultant Ltd, publishers of Tanzanite. Membe, who died on May 12, 2023, had sued them seeking Sh10.1 billion in damages, claiming that between October 2018 and May 2019 the newspaper published defamatory reports accusing him of election fraud and posing a national security threat.

Membe had also alleged that claims that he laundered money from Libya and was involved in drug trafficking were false and harmed his reputation. He said the publications caused the suspension of a S billion project, his expulsion from CCM, the withdrawal of his diplomatic passport and restrictions on his travel abroad.

The case had initially been heard ex parte after Musiba and co-respondents failed to appear, leading to a default judgment. On October 28, 2021, Justice Joacquine De-Mello ruled in Membe’s favour, awarding Sh6 billion and barring further defamatory publications.

Grounds for the appeal Musiba and co-respondents challenged the ruling in the Court of Appeal, represented by lawyer Sylvanus Mayenga, while the respondents were represented by Shundi Mrutu and Jonathan Mndeme. The appeal argued that the High Court had erred by accepting testimony from witnesses who had not sworn oaths as required by the Oaths and Statutory Declarations Act, Cap 34. The witnesses included Membe himself, former Ambassador Patric Isere, and Amri Mnkombolo.

Mayenga argued that the court records showed the witnesses gave testimony without taking the legal oath, noting that the court clerk appeared to guide them. Mrutu countered, saying all witnesses had taken oaths before testifying, dismissing the appeal as baseless.

Why the award was annulled The appellate judges said the key issue was whether the witnesses had taken their oaths before giving evidence. Court records, they noted, did not confirm that proper oaths were administered, meaning the evidence did not meet legal requirements.

“Court proceedings must follow proper procedure. Evidence given without a lawful oath is invalid,” the judges said.

As a result, the testimony of witnesses 1, 2 and 3 was annulled, and the Sh6 billion award was set aside. The High Court was instructed to rehear the case from May 4, 2021, when the witnesses first gave evidence.

The remaining aspects of the case remain valid, but proceedings will recommence with witnesses taking lawful oaths. The ruling ensures that proper legal procedures are observed, even in a high-profile defamation case previously decided by default.

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Dar es Salaam. Prominent swimming club Bluefins will field a strong squad of 13 swimmers at the Tanzania National Club Championship (TNCC) 2026 scheduled to take place this weekend at the International School of Tanganyika (IST) swimming pool in Masaki.

The club’s founder and head trainer Rahim Alidina expressed confidence in his team’s readiness ahead of the highly competitive event. “All our swimmers are in good shape and fully prepared for the championships.

We expect them to perform well and achieve new personal bests,” said Alidina. He added that the squad consists of five female and eight male swimmers.

The female swimmers representing Bluefins are Sakina Abdulali, Insiya Adamji, Maahira Noorani, Aminaz Kachra, and Anaya Shanghvi. The male swimmers include Burhanuddin Mustansir, Shabbir Hatim, Shuneal Bharwani, Hassan Harunani, Kaysan Kachra, Burhanuddin Hatim, Cayden Barreto, and Adam Hassanali.

The TNCC 2026 will feature a total of 16 swimming clubs, 14 from Tanzania and two from neighboring countries, reflecting the growing regional appeal and competitiveness of the sport. The three day championship is expected to run from April 10 to 12 and will attract around 190 swimmers, making it one of the largest swimming competitions on the local calendar.

Clubs from Kenya and Zambia are set to raise the level of competition, providing Tanzanian swimmers with an important opportunity to test themselves against strong regional opponents on home soil. The international participation is also expected to expose local athletes to different racing styles and strategies, which are essential for their development.

Beyond medals and national titles, the championships will serve as a qualifying platform for the 2026 World Aquatics Championships in China. Performances during the event will be crucial in determining the athletes who will represent Tanzania on the global stage.

Organisers say the competition is part of a broader effort to raise the standard of swimming in the country by establishing a clear pathway from national to international levels. The event is designed not only to identify top performers but also to nurture emerging talent and prepare them for higher levels of competition.

Tanzania is expected to send four swimmers, two men and two women, to the World Aquatics Championships, with selection based on times, technique, and consistency under pressure during the national meet. Officials believe that hosting international clubs strengthens sporting ties across the region and provides valuable benchmarking opportunities for local swimmers.

The exposure helps athletes identify areas for improvement while building confidence ahead of international competitions. The championships are also expected to play a role in promoting swimming across the country by inspiring more young people to take up the sport.

By showcasing high level competition, the event aims to expand the talent pool and ensure a steady pipeline of future athletes. Overall, the TNCC 2026 promises to be a landmark event that blends national pride, regional rivalry, and international ambition into one competitive platforms.

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Dar es Salaam. Canada’s Court of Appeal for Ontario has dismissed a lawsuit against Barrick’s North Mara Gold Mine, drawing mixed reactions from the mining firm and human rights advocates.

The case arose from allegations of deaths and assaults in and around the North Mara Gold Mine in Tanzania. On Tuesday, April 7, 2026, a panel of judges upheld a lower court ruling that the case should not proceed in Ontario, finding that Tanzania is the more appropriate jurisdiction for the matter.

The claim, filed in Ontario in November 2022, centres on alleged excessive use of force by police providing security at the mine in northern Tanzania. According to court documents, the area is inhabited largely by the Kuria community, many of whom have historically depended on small-scale mining.

The claim alleges that attempts by local residents to access waste rock for subsistence have been met with disproportionate force, resulting in more than 70 deaths over the past two decades. In a statement issued yesterday Barrick welcomed the ruling, noting that it affirms an earlier decision by the Ontario Superior Court that Tanzania is the proper forum for the case.

The company said evidence presented in court showed that the Tanzania Police Force operates independently of Barrick. It added that it maintains a zero-tolerance policy on human rights abuses involving employees, contractors or third parties.

Barrick president and chief executive officer, Mark Hill, said the company values its operations in Tanzania. “Barrick is proud of our work in Tanzania, which we undertake in close partnership with government and host communities.

Our operations create jobs, support economic growth and contribute to improving livelihoods,” he said. However, Amnesty International Canada expressed concern over the ruling.

In a statement published on April 7, the organisation said it had participated in the case as a third-party intervenor. It argued that, in cases involving alleged human rights abuses linked to Canadian companies abroad, courts should consider access to justice and the right to an effective remedy when determining jurisdiction.

“Regardless of today’s decision, international law remains clear: people have the right to an effective remedy when their rights are violated,” said Julia Sande, the organisation’s strategic litigation campaigner. She added that Canadian courts have a role in ensuring companies respect human rights beyond their borders, particularly where victims may face barriers to justice in their home countries.

Amnesty International Canada’s corporate accountability campaigner, Tara Scurr, said the organisation was disappointed with the outcome. “We are disappointed by today’s ruling and what it means for the families’ pursuit of justice.

Cases like this highlight the challenges victims face in holding powerful corporations accountable,” she said. .