Category: The Citizen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Dodoma. Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) has outlined key achievements delivered by President Samia Suluhu Hassan during her four years in office, ahead of her campaign launch in the Lake Zone on September 7, 2025. Updating journalists on the campaign trail, CCM’s Secretary for Ideology, Publicity and Training, Mr Kinan Kihongosi, said flagship projects in the Lake Zone embody the party’s commitment to lasting development.

He cited the recently inaugurated KigongoBusisi Bridge, also known as the JPM Bridge, which was completed at a cost of over Sh700 billion. “This bridge is a symbol of progress.

It connects people, opens up trade, and stands as a testimony of our promise to deliver,” said Mr Kihongosi. He further noted investments in Lake Victoria’s transport and trade infrastructure, including the purchase of an ambulance boat to enhance healthcare services and a clean water project aimed at serving communities for generations.

Highlighting the fishing industry as a key economic driver for the Lake Zone, Mr Kihongosi said CCM’s manifesto commits to further initiatives over the next five years to benefit thousands of households. “Fishing is life for many families.

We have laid out concrete plans to boost the sector and secure better livelihoods,” he said. Providing statistics on the campaign so far, he revealed that 21 regions have hosted rallies, with 77 campaign meetings attracting more than 14.6 million participants, and a further 31.6 million people following online.

“The turnouts are impressive. They reflect the trust and confidence Tanzanians have in our presidential candidate.

We now call upon the people of the Lake Zone to come out in great numbers and hear directly from President Samia Suluhu Hassan,” said Mr Kihongosi. He praised the peaceful nature of the campaign, commending CCM supporters for their discipline and unity.

“Since the start of our campaign, our candidate has demonstrated dignity and responsibility. We must all safeguard the unity and peace that define our nation,” he stressed.

Mr Kihongosi reiterated that peace and harmony remain at the heart of CCM’s message. “Where there is peace, there is progress.

Choosing Samia means choosing peace, unity, love, and solidarity. That is what CCM stands for,” he affirmed.

He also emphasised the importance of educating younger generations about the nation’s development journey. “Many young people were born into an era of roads, schools, and services, but they may not understand the struggles it took to reach this stage.

We have a duty to teach history and remind everyone of our journey,” he said. Calling upon Lake Zone residents, he urged: “We invite everyone to be part of these historic campaign launches.

Together, we can protect our peace and strengthen our path of development.” .

Unguja. The NCCR-Mageuzi presidential candidate for Zanzibar, Ms Laila Rajab Khamis, has pledged to tackle unemployment, enhance healthcare provisions, and significantly boost trade across the islands if elected.

Ms Khamis made the declaration on Friday, October 3, 2025, during the official launch of the party’s campaign at the Nego Kibanda Maiti Grounds in the Mjini Magharibi Region. Acknowledging the incumbent government’s existing achievements, Ms Khamis stated that the NCCR ticket intended to deliver far greater progress.

“If we come to power, we shall ensure health services improve and that Zanzibari children are educated to become champions,” she affirmed. She emphasised that employment goes beyond mere job creation, extending to improved remuneration.

“We shall employ citizens within their own areas and increase salaries by 80 percent,” she promised. Ms Khamis addressed the persistent unemployment crisis, stating that the NCCR Mageuzi government would construct numerous factories to eliminate the problem.

“We urge you to vote for us so you may witness the great things we shall achieve once we assume office,” she stated. She pledged that, if elected, she would establish Unguja’s finest market and reinstate crucial loans for traders within her first 100 days in office.

“Mothers, this shall mark the end of your struggles. I will establish a large market here at Kibanda Maiti, unlike anything seen previously, where every trader can bring their goods in their own vehicles,” said Ms Khamis.

Earlier, the party’s running mate for the Union presidency, Ms Eveline Munisi, stated their central goal is to introduce reforms across all sectors in Tanzania. Ms Munisi argued that Zanzibar is economically wealthy, yet its populace does not reap the full benefits.

“Zanzibar has extensive fisheries, but no one benefits. We have come to bring change; we shall provide modern boats for all fishermen,” she declared.

Ms Munisi confirmed the party plans to build an inclusive economy to ensure unemployment is no longer a grievance among Zanzibari youth. “Tourism is performing well, but youth do not benefit.

We shall ensure inclusive growth so that young people gain. The education you possess is sufficient; you should not struggle further.

NCCR-Mageuzi is here to end your complaints,” she stressed. She added that no investment would proceed without significant youth participation, guaranteeing that no future grievances arise.

The party would also empower women by granting them the necessary loans, thereby ending the cycle of exploitative borrowing practices. “When we speak of economic growth, we must view it from the perspective of every Zanzibari, not just as a statistical figure in a report.

When the economy grows, even essential medicines will be provided free of charge,” she maintained. On healthcare, she insisted it is not merely about constructing large physical facilities, but about fundamentally improving service delivery.

“The one party capable of delivering this is only NCCR-Mageuzi. We shall ensure there are sufficient doctors and nurses, and that medicines are readily available in all hospitals,” she confirmed.

Regarding peace, Ms Munisi said they have endeavoured hard to maintain stability, which is why they seek a mandate to organise and improve life for Zanzibaris so that peace endures through the development of a ‘Blue Economy’. “We want to see Zanzibari prosperity for all,” she said.

NCCR’s Deputy Secretary-General in Zanzibar, Mr Ameir Mshindani, said that if elected, they would end the denial of crucial identity cards to rightful Zanzibaris and ensure that local youth are employed in the tourism sector, replacing foreign workers. Deputy Secretary-General for Mainland Tanzania, Mr Martini Mgogo, said their first official agenda is achieving national consensus because currently every group pursues its own distinct agenda.

He stressed that the Union’s existence cannot be merely a single party’s policy, but rather requires agreement through extensive dialogue and genuine consensus. .

Dar es Salaam. As global temperatures rise, new research has found that growing trees alongside crops could protect millions of Tanzanian farmers from the life-threatening health impacts of extreme heat.

The Kisiki Hai Sustainable Heat Adaptation Development (KISHADE) project has produced the first scientific evidence showing that trees within croplands can significantly reduce heat stress among agricultural workers. The study was conducted in four Dodoma Region districts: Chamwino, Bahi, Kongwa, and Mpwapwa, aimed to evaluate heat adaptation interventions to help manage heat’s health effects.

The research is a collaboration with the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, the University of Dar es Salaam, the University of Dodoma, Muhimbili National Hospital, and MetaMeta. The findings, presented on Friday, October 3, 2025, at the sideline meeting of the 12th Tanzania Health Summit, were made possible through the LEAD Foundation.

An internal medicine specialist and Director of Curative Services at Muhimbili National Hospital, Dr Faraja Chiwanga, who leads the project under LEAD, said the aim is to determine whether agroforestry can improve farmers’ health by transforming their immediate environment. “For years, farmers engaged in the Kisiki Hai (Live Stump) programme, which has restored more than 30 million trees across 260,000 households, have reported that trees offer natural cooling.

The KISHADE project is scientifically testing that claim,” she said. Dr Chiwanga noted that the project, the first of its kind in Tanzania, is funded by the Wellcome Trust and seeks to provide concrete data rather than anecdotal evidence on the health benefits of agroforestry.

With over 70 percent of Tanzania’s workforce engaged in agriculture and exposed to extreme outdoor conditions, the study aims to answer a pressing question: Can trees shield farmers from deadly heat? “The need for this research is dire. Farmers are increasingly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, chronic kidney disease, and cardiovascular strain,” said Dr Chiwanga.

“The absence of shade or cooling infrastructure makes heat stress a major obstacle to both well-being and productivity,” she added. Researchers are using innovative tools to gather evidence as farmers are observed in their daily routines while wearing sensors that monitor body temperature and heart rate.

She said urine and blood samples are also analysed to assess long-term health impacts. By comparing data from farmers practising agroforestry with those who do not, and using advanced climate sensors, the team sought to determine precisely how trees help protect health.

Head of the Department of Sociology and Anthropology at the University of Dar es Salaam and co-researcher, Dr Richard Sambaiga, said community participation was crucial. “Farmers have welcomed the wearable technology, showing strong engagement.

Ethical approvals were secured without difficulty, and the detailed weather data collected in the first phase has laid a solid foundation for the next stages,” he said. He emphasised that community sensitisation and involvement have been central to the project’s early success.

Beyond the immediate findings, KISHADE is also strengthening local capacity by training young Tanzanian researchers in advanced scientific and field methods, ensuring long-term benefits. The project’s outcomes are expected to influence not only farmers but also policymakers, health professionals, and government agencies.

Non-governmental organisations and international partners stand to benefit from new insights into nature-based climate adaptation. At the same time, donors will gain evidence on the value of investing in environmental and health resilience.

The data on microclimates and human health will contribute to global research on planetary health, with lessons applicable in other heat-stressed regions. Farmers are already noticing changes, as Mr Henry Mubi from Kongwa District in Dodoma says, “The heat is unbearable.

It shortens our working hours and makes farming harder.” “We suffer headaches, fatigue, and dizziness.

With fewer working hours, income falls too. But crops planted in shaded areas survive longer during heatwaves,” he added.

An occupational health expert from the World Health Organisation (WHO), Dr Ivan Ivanov, described the research as a landmark effort. “This is a vital contribution to understanding how nature-based solutions can safeguard human health in a warming world,” he said.

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Dar es Salaam. Activists have renewed calls for the government to amend outdated laws, especially aspects of customary law they say underpin much genderbased violence, as cases continue to rise, particularly those facilitated through digital platforms.

The appeal came on Friday, 3 October 2025, from Women in Law and Development in Africa (WiLDAF). This occurred during the National Dialogue on Technology-Facilitated Violence and Violence Against Women in Elections.

The dialogue is part of ongoing efforts leading to the global 16 Days of Activism Against GenderBased Violence campaign. The WiLDAF National Coordinator, Ms Anna Kulaya, reiterated the urgent need for legal reforms, noting that activists have long urged the government to review laws that deny women equal rights to property and inheritance.

“For many years, we have been advocating for changes to customary laws that deny women the right to inherit land and other property. This denial has caused psychological violence and, in some cases, discouraged women from seeking political positions due to online harassment,” she said.

She noted that while technology is a powerful tool, it has also become a channel for abuse. Women engaging in public or political life increasingly face offensive messages on social media, which can discourage their participation and harm their mental health.

According to her, the gathering brought together stakeholders to develop concrete recommendations for government consideration. She emphasised the importance of digital literacy and community awareness to ensure technological spaces uphold women’s dignity and rights.

Citing UN Women research, Ms Kulaya revealed that over 80 per cent of women have experienced various forms of violence, including psychological abuse and technologyfacilitated harassment. She urged the government to address stakeholder demands to update laws in line with present challenges.

“There are several laws requiring urgent amendment, such as the Marriage Act. Other countries have enacted specific legislation to tackle genderbased violence.

As technology, including AI, becomes part of daily life, we must act now,” she added. Tanzania Women CrossParty (TWCP) Country Coordinator, Dr AveMaria Semakafu, said online abuse is a serious threat, instilling fear among women and discouraging political and leadership participation.

“For example, a woman may receive abusive messages directly to her phone and, even with clear evidence, fails to obtain justice,” she said. She added that courts sometimes refuse to accept mobile messages as evidence because laws still discriminate against women.

Dr Semakafu said online abuse also occurs within close relationships, where women receive threatening messages from partners or relatives urging them to withdraw from public engagement or leadership. “As a result, many women fear claiming their democratic rights.

Through this platform, we aim to develop a joint resolution that will awaken and engage key stakeholders,” she said. .

Mwanza. The Alliance for Democratic Change (ADC) has pledged that, if granted the mandate to govern, its immediate priority will be to hold accountable all individuals responsible for the massive misappropriation of public funds.

The declaration was made on Friday, October 3, 2024, in Ilemela District, Mwanza Region, during a door-to-door campaign led by ADC National Chairman, Mr Shabani Itutu, who is also the party’s parliamentary candidate for the Ilemela Constituency. Mr Itutu argued that corruption remains the root cause of many challenges facing citizens, including persistent medicine shortages in public hospitals.

He noted that over Sh30 trillion has been lost to misuse and wastage, according to damning reports by the Controller and Auditor General (CAG) since 2021. Yet, despite names being disclosed, no legal action has been instituted. “We shall end all theft so that government funds can be used to provide free medical services to citizens.

The CAG has named people implicated, but not one corrupt person has been arrested, while a significant amount remains in the hands of a few,” he said. “That is why ADC insists that if we win the presidency and parliamentary seats, we will arrest all corrupt individuals, imprison them, and recover the stolen money for the direct benefit of Tanzanians,” he added.

The party vowed to ensure that everyone involved in looting public resources would face prompt court action. Mr Itutu stressed that all stolen property would be recovered, even if it had been transferred abroad.

He warned corrupt individuals to prepare to return the stolen money for national development. He further noted that Ilemela suffers serious water shortages, promising that ADC, if elected, would build permanent infrastructure, including storage tanks and robust distribution systems for all wards in the district.

He also pledged to resolve the longstanding land disputes troubling the area. Resident, including Mr Adolph Lwaima, welcomed the door-to-door campaign, stating it allowed voters who cannot attend mass rallies to meet candidates and hear their policies directly.

“For now, I run a shop here. I cannot just leave for a rally unless I hear the news.

But I like this approach; it gives us the chance to listen and see them,” he observed. .

Dar es Salaam. For many families, home is a place of comfort, rest, and unity.

Yet for a growing number of married men, spending long hours indoors has become something they actively avoid. The reason, they say, is simple: when men stay home, the bills rise.

Some men say it feels almost unbelievable that one extra person at home could make such a difference. For them, even small daily routines seem to push expenses higher.

“It’s like one man can turn a small bill into a huge one. When I’m out, life goes on normally.

When I stay home, suddenly the bills go up,” said a ride-hailing driver, Mr Hamisi Ally. For many, it is not only the financial pressure but also the household atmosphere that becomes challenging.

A bank teller, Mr Jackson Mwita, said, “If I stay all day, I argue with my wife over small things, how I sit, how I use the remote, how I talk to the children. It becomes stressful.

” Entrepreneur Hassan Juma said the problem is also about control, “The house is too small for two bosses. I interfere with how my wife runs things or try to discipline the children differently.

That creates clashes. It’s better to give each other space.

” Women, however, insist that men’s complaints are often exaggerated. A secretary and mother of one, Ms Neema John, said, “My husband says bills rise when he stays home, but sometimes it’s because I suggest we go out together.

Sunday trips or lunch outings increase expenses, but isn’t that part of family life?” A mother of three, Ms Fatuma Kweka, added, “When their father is home, the children want outings, treats, and attention. That should not be seen as a problem, just part of parenting.

” Nurse Esther Rudolf argued that men often use bills as an excuse to avoid responsibilities. “We also stretch the budget when he is home, but it’s because we want to do things as a family,” she said, adding that if women avoided home for the same reason, marriages would suffer.

Electrician Neema Mohamed pointed out a communication gap. “He says arguments increase, yet refuses to talk calmly.

Avoiding home doesn’t solve anything,” she explained. Psychologist, Dr Grace Gidion, said financial concerns are only part of the story.

“Men feel pressure from bills, but what they express is also stress about family expectations,” she said, adding that unresolved conflicts amplify anxiety. “When men avoid home, it can create emotional distance.

Even if they are physically elsewhere, women feel abandoned emotionally, which can lead to resentment. They want support and companionship, but the focus on bills overshadows these needs,” she said.

She emphasised that couples must openly discuss financial and emotional responsibilities. “A balanced home is one where both men and women share duties and recognise that emotional presence matters as much as financial contribution,” she said.

While bills may increase when fathers are present, experts say the real cost of staying away is emotional. Couples who learn to navigate both finances and family time find that shared presence strengthens bonds, builds memories, and teaches children the value of togetherness.

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Dodoma. “In my first 100 days as a Member of Parliament, there will be major changes in land matters in Mtumba Constituency.

People will appreciate this because land must be owned legally, not just claimed visually.” This is the promise from the CCM parliamentary candidate for Mtumba Constituency, Mr Anthony Mavunde, made on Saturday, October 4, 2025. He said these changes will happen if voters elect Samia Suluhu Hassan as President, he wins the parliamentary seat, and all 20 wards in the constituency have CCM councillors.

Mtumba Constituency, comprising 20 wards and 101 streets, was created from Dodoma Constituency, which previously had 41 wards and 222 neighbourhoods. Mtumba was named in honour of the Government City, home to ministries and institutions.

The wards forming Mtumba are Msalato, Makutupora, Chihanga, Hombolo Bwawani, Hombolo Makulu, Ipala, Chahwa, Mtumba, Ihumwa, and Nzuguni. Others are Ipagala, K/Ndege, Miyuji, Makole, Viwandani, Tambukareli, Dodoma Makulu, Iyumbu, and Nghong’ona.

The constituency lies in the eastern part of Dodoma City and hosts several key government institutions, including Parliament, the University of Dodoma (UDOM), Benjamin Mkapa Hospital, the Defence Forces Headquarters, and the Msalato International Airport. In an interview on Saturday, October 4, 2025, Mr Mavunde says his vision is driven by concern for the lives of residents and a strong desire to make Mtumba a model constituency for the nation, with improved living conditions.

Regarding representation, he says he served well when the constituency was larger and sees no reason he should lose now that it is smaller, promising committed service to the people and effectively addressing their problems. He calls on voters to start on October 29, 2025, by supporting President Hassan for the presidency, saying she has led positive developments in Dodoma and will drive further progress in Mtumba.

Land sector Mr Mavunde describes the land sector as a major challenge for residents but says he has never been silent on it and will not remain so. He says he has worked to reduce past disputes, noting that land allocation was a major problem.

His solution includes relocating land officers closer to residents, a project already underway in some areas with disputes. Education sector He pledges to continue what has been started by building more primary and secondary schools, ensuring children have closer access to education.

He promises to purchase photocopy machines to relieve parents and guardians of weekly contributions on Saturdays, which have become a burden. He also promises to install model student seating in schools, facilities not yet found anywhere else in Tanzania.

Health sector Mtumba has four health centres, but Mr Mavunde says more are needed to bring services closer to residents. At the long-standing Makole Health Centre, he says multi-storey buildings will be constructed to expand and upgrade the facility.

He promises to accelerate the building of dispensaries where needed and to improve existing ones to meet modern standards. He stresses his contribution to health services, noting that during his five years in Parliament, he deployed doctors to the constituency, offered free eye care, and distributed more than 5,000 spectacles.

Water services Due to Dodoma’s water shortage, Mr Mavunde says he has petitioned the President for a programme to drill wells in the outskirts of the city, a move he says will bring “good changes.” He cites the drilling of wells in Nzuguni A as an example and says water infrastructure is being completed in many areas of Mtumba so residents can soon stop complaining.

He calls on voters to turn out in large numbers for CCM, promising “good things are coming.” He says water distribution will not wait until November, with experts already working to ensure continued benefits under CCM leadership.

Mr Mavunde promises that within five years of his tenure, a vegetable market will be built in Ihumwa Ward to reduce congestion and costs for residents who now travel to the city centre for trade. The market will serve young farmers from Ihumwa, Nzuguni, Mahomanyika, Mahoma Makulu, Hombolo, and Iyumbu, who currently depend on customers in Dar es Salaam.

He also pledges to revitalise Sabasaba Market by demolishing and rebuilding it so traders can operate freely in a modern environment. He says: “When I spoke about demolition, some politicised it.

I say they may dislike me now, but future generations will remember me, Sabasaba Market will be redeveloped, and no one will lose their place during construction.” He cites improvements at Majengo Market, which initially faced criticism but is now appreciated, and highlights successes at Mavunde Market in Chang’ombe, which he initiated and built.

He says Dodoma City Council has set aside Sh7.6 billion for 10 percent loans for youth, women, and persons with disabilities, but warns voters not to take loans carelessly. “Do not rush in and regret it later.

” Mr Mavunde believes in financial literacy, promising to deploy experts to educate residents before loans are given so people can see the benefits without unnecessary hardship. Mr Mavunde emphasises youth sports, promising to develop the “Mavunde Cup” competition, which has unearthed talent, some of whom now play in the Premier League and First Division.

He says the reduced size of the constituency will allow better competitions, giving more opportunities to young people. Why Samia? He lists five key achievements under the leadership of CCM’s presidential candidate, Samia Suluhu Hassan, who is completing her term: the construction of Msalato International Airport, the ring road, health centres and Nala District Hospital, water projects, and infrastructure improvements in the city centre.

He says her speed of work gives him confidence that within five years, Mtumba and Tanzania will make great progress. Tears in public When asked how he felt on May 15, 2025, when the constituency was divided, he recalled the emotional farewell of residents, saying it was difficult to speak openly while seeing people cry, a moment that moved him to tears.

Nonetheless, Mr Mavunde promises to be a good representative and to cooperate with whoever wins the Dodoma Constituency. He also asks voters to choose the CCM parliamentary candidate and councillors.

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