BoT reassures market as appetite for govt securities hits record high

Dar es Salaam. The Bank of Tanzania (BoT) has downplayed fears of crowding out credit to the private sector as appetite for government securities has surged to record high.

The latest Monthly Economic Review shows the country’s domestic debt stock increased by 0.9 percent to Sh37.46 trillion by the end of September 2025, driven largely by strong uptake of long-term Treasury bonds.

Government securities now account for 86.8 percent of total domestic debt, comprising Sh2.05 trillion in Treasury bills, Sh135.7 billion in government stocks and a dominant Sh30.3 trillion in Treasury bonds. BoT data indicates that the market remains highly concentrated among institutional investors.

Commercial banks hold the largest share at 28.7 percent, equivalent to Sh10.75 trillion, followed by the central bank at 27.4 percent (Sh10.28 trillion). Pension funds account for a further 18 percent, or Sh6.75 trillion, underscoring the continued dominance of institutional players in the securities market.

Despite the rapid expansion, the central bank insists the system remains stable and well-balanced. A financial analyst from the BoT’s Directorate of Financial Markets, Mr Francis Samuel, said the rising demand for government securities is neither accidental nor destabilising.

He noted that Treasury instruments sit at the core of the banking system. “Commercial banks must comply with liquidity requirements to ensure they maintain enough liquid assets to meet short-term obligations,” he said.

“Treasury bills and bonds are the only acceptable collateral for accessing central bank liquidity facilities, so banks accumulate them to strengthen their borrowing capacity.” He added that in the interbank lending market–where banks lend to each other–Treasury securities provide high-quality collateral.

“Unsecured interbank lending is rare and costlier, making government bonds the preferred instrument for securing cheaper short-term credit,” he said. This collateral value, he explained, means that even as banks increase their holdings of government paper, liquidity remains sufficient.

“Banks are earning substantial income from their external investments, and their domestic operations are performing strongly,” Mr Samuel said. “Because of these diversified revenue streams, liquidity stays stable even when banks allocate large sums to government paper.

The banking sector continues extending loans to private-sector players, and the numbers show they are doing well.” Data from the Monthly Economic Review supports this view, showing private-sector credit expanding by 16.1 percent year-on-year in September–one of the strongest growth phases in recent years.

Agriculture, mining, trade and construction all recorded strong lending activity, with personal loans–frequently used by MSMEs–continuing to command the largest share. Regarding the rising demand for government securities, Mr Samuel said Tanzania is witnessing a structural shift in how both ordinary citizens and institutional investors manage their money.

“Financial literacy has improved sharply, with more Tanzanians now aware of fixed-income investment options,” he said. He pointed to the rapid growth of collective investment schemes, particularly those operated by UTT AMIS, which pool resources from thousands of small investors and channel them directly into government securities.

With Treasury bond yields remaining high–often in double digits–many retail savers who previously relied on bank deposits or informal savings groups have shifted towards the bond market. However, he cautioned that increased preference for low-risk government instruments over investing in or expanding businesses may prompt policymakers to reflect on what this shift means for the broader business environment .

Tanzania strengthens laboratory services as patients face misdiagnosis challenges

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania has made notable strides in improving the quality of laboratory services over the years, but some patients continue to face challenges linked to incorrect diagnoses, which can delay treatment and increase health risks.

Some patients and families reported having to spend large sums seeking a proper diagnosis after their loved ones’ conditions failed to improve. The government has acknowledged that the country faced significant problems with laboratory service quality around 2008 and earlier.

Weak testing systems, poor quality management, and the lack of reliable mechanisms to detect and correct errors led to widespread complaints about inaccurate results. A pathology expert has highlighted the need for private hospitals to invest more in specialised doctors capable of accurately diagnosing patients, rather than relying solely on general practitioners.

To address the problem, the Ministry of Health joined the World Health Organization (WHO) programme known as Strengthening Laboratory Management Toward Accreditation (SLMTA) in 2009. As of October this year, the situation has improved, with several laboratories achieving international accreditation after being strengthened to meet global quality standards. According to the Director of Diagnostic Services from the Ministry of Health, Dr Alex Magesa, the government continues to strengthen the supervision and management of diagnostic services.

New guidelines have been developed to enhance laboratory testing, radiology services, and blood safety in both public and private hospitals. “Tanzania faced significant problems with the quality of laboratory services in the years around 2008 and earlier.

Weak testing systems, poor quality management, and the absence of reliable mechanisms to detect and correct errors led to widespread complaints about inaccurate results,” he said. Since then, the Ministry and the Regional Administration and Local Government (RALG) have been enrolling laboratories across the country in the SLMTA programme each year.

“Additionally, laboratories in all 184 district hospitals have been enrolled in the programme, while improvements are now being extended to health centres and dispensary laboratories,” Dr Magesa said. A pathologist at Kampala International University in Tanzania, Dr Praxeda Ogweyo, told The Citizen that some hospitals rely solely on general doctors, who may prescribe broad laboratory tests after listening to a patient’s symptoms.

The results of such tests may fail to detect the patient’s actual condition. “For example, at Muhimbili, when a patient explains their symptoms, a general doctor will know exactly where to refer them so they can see a specialist.

I am a specialist in examining tissue samples and diagnosing conditions in patients with tumours. Investment in specialised doctors is vital,” she said.

Dr Ogweyo explained that limited investment in specialist doctors contributes to patients receiving general or inconclusive results. Consequently, conditions often progress silently, and by the time patients reach referral hospitals, diseases such as cancer may have reached an advanced stage.

Sharing his experience, a resident of Mabibo, Mr Oswald Mzava said he recently encountered such challenges. He was admitted to a private hospital where initial tests suggested a blood infection.

However, his condition did not improve despite treatment. After days of deteriorating health, his family transferred him to Dar es Salaam for further tests.

“The diagnosis revealed that I actually had severe malaria. The supposed blood infection had not been detected.

As a result, the treatment had to start all over again, and I spent another three days admitted,” he said. Mr Mzava believes he survived because he could afford additional treatment in a bigger city.

“I managed to do so because I had money; otherwise, I could have died receiving the wrong treatment. The private sector and government should invest more in proper diagnostic services so results are accurate and consistent,” he added.

Another patient, who asked not to be named, shared a similar ordeal, saying his wife nearly lost her life due to inaccurate test results. “We were treated for a disease she did not have and spent a lot of money on unnecessary medication.

When we sought help at a referral hospital, the results were completely different,” he said. He said that the conflicting diagnoses caused anxiety and mistrust.

“We had already treated a condition that didn’t exist, and we were not sure whether the new diagnosis was accurate. Fortunately, after a few days of proper treatment, she recovered,” he noted.

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Karatu community hails French investor as school rises under its CSR support

Karatu. A French tourism investor who has quietly invested money, time and expertise in a rural primary school in northern Tanzania for more than a decade has been honoured by the local community after the school ranked among the region’s best performers in this year’s national examinations.

Residents of Bashay Village in Karatu District held a ceremony to recognise Mr Denis Lebouteux, owner of the Mount Kilimanjaro Safari Club (MKSC) and Bashay Lodge, for his long-standing philanthropic support to Bashay Primary School. The school’s headteacher, Mr Malley Elipheus, said the institution ranked second among more than 500 public schools in the Arusha Region in the 2025 Standard Seven examinations, crediting the feat to years of targeted support from Mr Lebouteux and MKSC.

“For seven consecutive years, Bashay has been leading Karatu District in academic performance. This would not have been possible without Mr Denis’s generous support,” Mr Elipheus said.

Over the past 16 years, Mr Lebouteux has funded the construction and renovation of classrooms, installed water and electricity, supported the school-feeding programme and covered stipends for volunteer teachers. MKSC also pays for extra tutoring sessions, which the school says have been central to improving pupils’ performance.

The company has further planted fruit trees around the school to enhance nutrition and create a greener learning environment. Karatu District Education Officer, Mr Musa Kavumo, said MKSC’s corporate social responsibility engagement had helped fill key gaps in public education services.

“What MKSC has been doing was supposed to be done by the government, but it chose to complement government efforts and now we are seeing the results,” he said. All 300 Standard Seven pupils from Bashay Primary passed their 2025 examinations with an average grade of A, making the school the top performer in Karatu District.

Deeply moved by the gesture from the community, Mr Lebouteux pledged to continue supporting the school. “My heart is in this school.

I want to see it become a role model for others,” he said, commending teachers for their dedication. “What we have done is small compared to what you teachers have been doing.

Here you are shaping the future engineers, teachers, military officers and other professionals for this country.” MKSC Director, Mr George Ole Meing’arrai, said the company’s operating philosophy emphasises shared prosperity with local communities.

“MKSC is a responsible tour company with a clear policy of sharing profits with the community to create social impact,” he said. Mount Kilimanjaro Safari Club is regarded as one of Tanzania’s leading tour operators, promoting the country in European markets, supporting conservation and creating employment for local communities.

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Stakeholders urge focus on quality children’s books at Dar es Salaam Book Fair

By Juma Shabani Dar es Salaam. Education and literacy stakeholders have called on writers and publishers to increase focus on producing children’s books, saying this is key to building a nation with strong thinking and comprehension skills.

The call came at the 32nd International Book Fair in Dar es Salaam, officially opened at the weekend by the Minister of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Prof Palamagamba Kabudi. Prof Kabudi urged Tanzanians to embrace a culture of reading, saying it underpins knowledge, creativity and national development.

“No nation has advanced without avid readers. We should invest in books that educate, entertain and build children on strong thinking foundations,” he said.

An NGO promoting literacy among children, Room to Read Tanzania, emphasised that authors must write from a child’s perspective. A Senior Manager of Best Reading Publications, Blandina Lucas, said children’s books should use simple language, relatable topics, clear storylines, and engaging characters to motivate reading and learning.

Best Reading Publications Officer, Dickson Msuva, highlighted the organisation’s digital library, which provides over 4,000 books accessible on smartphones, tablets or laptops. He said digital books help overcome cost and transport barriers, allowing children to develop vocabulary, comprehension and values at home.

Room to Read also called on local printers to improve book quality, use child-friendly colours and ensure illustrations align with the narrative. Parents were urged to actively read with their children to foster both literacy and family bonds.

The 32nd International Book Fair continues for several days, with stakeholders promoting reading, book quality and strategies for nurturing a generation of readers. .

Zanzibar’s Second Vice President applauds Yas Marathon for elevating sports, tourism and local economy

Zanzibar. Zanzibar’s Second Vice President, Hemed Suleiman Abdulla, has praised the organisers, partners, and participants of the Yas Zanzibar International Marathon, describing the fifth edition as a major success that continues to elevate sports, tourism, and local business across the islands.

Held today, November 23, 2025, the event delivered thrilling performances from elite runners. Tanzania’s Maohhando Ako emerged the winner in the men’s half marathon, while Kenya’s Catherine Syokau secured the women’s gold medal.

In the 10-kilometre race, Tanzanian runner Mathias Sylvester claimed victory in the men’s category, and Sisila Ginoka triumphed in the women’s race, adding to the excitement of the colourful event. In his speech, Abdulla highlighted the marathon’s growing importance in positioning Zanzibar as a global destination for sports tourism.

He commended the organisers and partners for their commitment and noted that the event contributes significantly to public health, visitor attraction, economic stimulation, and showcasing Zanzibar’s beauty to the world. He encouraged continued investment in the event, emphasising that its success reflects the country’s broader progress in tourism and sports development.

Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Riziki Pembe Juma, also praised the marathon, underscoring its role in increasing sports participation and attracting international athletes. She revealed that the marathon is officially registered with World Athletics, giving runners a recognised international platform and enhancing the event’s credibility on the global stage.

This year’s edition attracted a diverse group of participants from Zanzibar, Mainland Tanzania, and countries including Kenya, South Sudan, Uganda, the United Kingdom, France, South Africa, the United States, Italy, India, China, and Japan. Thousands of local residents filled the streets to take part or cheer on the athletes, creating a festive and energetic atmosphere across the islands.

Mixx by Yas CEO, Angelica Pesha, said the 2025 theme, “Kila Hatua ni Spesho” (Every Step is Special), symbolised the unity and progress reflected in each participant’s contribution. She noted that the marathon brings together different generations, from first-time runners from Pemba to older participants proving that age is not a barrier to achievement.

Pesha emphasised that Yas and Mixx have achieved significant milestones in partnership with the Zanzibar Government within a short period since rebranding. She pointed to major improvements such as the expansion of 4G across the islands and the rollout of 5G in major towns, the construction of new towers to connect remote communities, the empowerment of over 25,000 residents through the YasMixx ecosystem, and the digitization of key services that have enabled digital payments for more than 100,000 farmers.

She also highlighted the processing of S0 billion in farmer transactions, assistance with Sh350 million in health insurance claims for clove farmers, and the modernization of public services through digital payments for Stone Town parking, ZHC, and ZRA. Furthermore, she stated that the company has supported national events, provided free internet to more than 40 schools with 110 more in progress and sponsored critical health outreach initiatives that have restored eyesight for thousands of Zanzibar residents.

These achievements, she added, demonstrate the company’s deep commitment to the social and economic development of Zanzibar. Hassan Bondi, Chair of the Marathon Organising Committee, thanked the Second Vice President for gracing the event and acknowledged the support of partners including Yas and Mixx, ZanFastFerries, GSM Beverages, and Mnana Online TV.

He noted that their collaboration has played a crucial role in the marathon’s successful execution and growing international profile. He further stressed that the marathon delivered a significant economic boost, with hotels, restaurants, transport providers, and local businesses experiencing increased activity driven by the influx of runners and visitors.

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Police detain Nursery School teacher Mwandambo over alleged online incitement

Mbeya. Police in Mbeya Region have detained Clemence Mwandambo, a teacher at Saint Clemence Nursery School and a resident of Uzunguni A, on allegations of incitement.

Mwandambo, who has gained significant attention online for his viral expressions–most notably the phrase “Nachoka baba yenu, Clemence Mwandambo”–was reportedly arrested yesterday, November 21. A well-known figure on Facebook and Instagram, Mwandambo has built a strong following through the videos he frequently posts on social media. A statement issued today, Saturday November 22, 2025 by Mbeya Regional Police Commander Benjamin Kuzaga, confirmed that the teacher has been taken into custody over incitement-related allegations.

According to the statement, the suspect was arrested at 5:20 am on Friday, November 21, 2015 in the Uzunguni area for allegedly producing and distributing inflammatory and divisive remarks through his social media accounts. “The suspect was apprehended while issuing and spreading inciteful and divisive statements via his Facebook and Instagram accounts.

Investigations are being finalised to enable further legal action,” Commander Kuzaga said. .

Dar’s students accused of assault in dispute over a man have a case to answer

Dar es Salaam. The Kisutu Resident Magistrate’s Court has ruled that three university students from institutions in Dar es Salaam have a case to answer in a criminal matter in which they are accused of committing several offences allegedly arising from a dispute over a man.

The accused are Mary Matogolo (22), a student at the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM); Ryner Mkwawili from Ardhi University; and Asha Juma from the Tanzania Institute of Accountancy (TIA), Dar es Salaam. The case, presided over by Senior Resident Magistrate Gwantwa Mwankuga, involves a total of eight charges.

The three are accused of causing bodily harm to fellow student Magnificant Kimario, issuing death threats, spreading false information online, and damaging property. To substantiate the charges, the prosecution called ten witnesses, including the alleged victim, Magnificant.

After closing its case on Friday, November 21, 2025 the court found that the evidence presented established a prima facie case requiring the accused to enter their defence. “Having considered the prosecution’s evidence, the court is satisfied that all the accused have a case to answer,” the magistrate said.

The ruling followed submissions by State Attorney Gabriel Kamugisha, who stated that the prosecution had no further witnesses after presenting ten testimonies. The accused, represented by advocate Peter Shapa, are now required to present their defence.

Magistrate Mwankuga ordered them to begin on Wednesday, November 26, 2025. The students first appeared before the court on May 30, 2025 when the charges were read to them by State Attorney Tumaini Mafuru. Prior to their arraignment, they had been arrested and questioned by the Police following the circulation of a video clip on social media on April 20, 2025 allegedly showing them humiliating a fellow student.

Charges against the accused In the first count, all three are accused of conspiring to publish false information on March 16, 2025 in the Sinza area of Ubungo District. The second count targets Mary and Asha, who are alleged to have, on the same day, disseminated false information on WhatsApp containing the words: “Speak out–when and where did you have sexual relations with Mwijaku?” Ryner faces the third count, accusing her of publishing false information on WhatsApp on the same day.

The fourth count relates to causing bodily harm, with Mary accused of assaulting Magnificant by striking her on the head with a metal object, causing severe pain. In the fifth count, all the accused allegedly pulled Magnificant’s hair with force, causing significant harm.

The sixth and seventh counts accuse Mary of destroying a mobile phone line and a Samsung handset valued at Sh700,000 belonging to Magnificant. The eighth count alleges that all three threatened to kill Magnificant using a knife.

The accused have denied all the charges and are currently out on bail. .

Samia commissions 296 New Officers at the Military Academy in Monduli

Monduli, Arusha. The President of the United Republic of Tanzania and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Samia Suluhu Hassan, has commissioned 296 new military officers at the Tanzania Military Academy (TMA) in Monduli.

The commissioning ceremony, held on Saturday, November 22, 2025 saw 106 of the officers awarded a Bachelor of Military Science degree after completing a three-year training programme. Among the newly commissioned Second Lieutenants are members of Course 72/24 Regular (79 officers), 22 pilots, and 89 officers who underwent training in partner countries.

Before presenting the commissions, President Samia inspected a parade mounted by the graduating officer cadets and awarded prizes to the best performers across all categories. “I congratulate you for upholding high training standards that ensure our soldiers are well-prepared to execute their duties effectively.

These skills are essential not only for our military but for the nation as a whole,” she said. She stressed that the training provided to the officers forms a crucial pillar in strengthening the Tanzania People’s Defence Force (TPDF) and supporting national development.

Earlier, the Minister for Defence and National Service, Dr Rhimo Nyansaho, reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to increasing the number of female graduates, noting that the officers are well-equipped to serve the nation with courage and integrity in safeguarding peace and security. He noted that this is the third year since the academy began independently offering the Bachelor of Military Science degree.

The minister reported progress in female representation, pointing out that during the fourth and fifth graduations there were 21 women, while this year the number has risen to 25, compared to 81 men. “Although the increase is modest, the Ministry continues to take deliberate measures to boost the number of female graduates annually, while maintaining the high quality of training,” he said.

“These achievements demonstrate our firm commitment to strengthening our military, particularly in tactical training and discipline. Under your capable leadership, our forces have remained steadfast in fulfilling their duties at home and abroad.

As we hand over these new officers today, I assure you that they are ready to serve the nation with courage, integrity and an unwavering commitment to protecting Tanzania’s peace and security.” The Commandant of TMA Monduli, Major General Jackson Mwaseba, said the academy will continue to provide an enabling environment and high-quality education that instils patriotism and ethical conduct.

He confirmed that of the graduates, 257 were men and 39 women. Speaking about the 06/22 Bachelor of Military Science cohort, he said it began on October 24, 2022 with 155 cadets.

Of these, 49 dropped out for various reasons, including personal requests, failure to meet academic standards, integrity issues, illness, and absenteeism. As a result, 106 completed the programme.

On the Regular Course, he noted that it commenced on 20 December 2024 with 173 cadets, of whom 102 graduated. The remaining 71 were unable to continue due to factors such as withdrawal, training desertion, integrity concerns, illness, academic shortcomings, and poor performance.

“I commend all those who excelled in their coursework, physical training and examinations. I remind you that TPDF has invested significantly in creating a supportive environment that ensures high-quality training for your personal benefit, for the military, and for the nation,” he said.

“The country has high expectations that the education you have received will shape you into true patriots with strong moral values and the ability to address challenges based on justice and human dignity. You carry a great responsibility to apply your training in advancing the mission of the military and the broader goals of the nation.

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Dube fires Yanga to winning start in CAF Champions League Group B

Zanzibar. Tanzania’s CAF Champions League representatives, Young Africans (Yanga), made a confident start to their Group B campaign after securing a hard-fought 10 victory over Moroccan giants AS FAR at the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar today, November 22, 2025. The win gives the Jangwani outfit early momentum in their quest to reach the quarterfinals, while also marking the first continental triumph under new Portuguese head coach Pedro Gonaalves, who replaced French tactician Romain Folz.

The decisive moment arrived in the 59th minute when Zimbabwean striker Prince Dube latched onto a brilliant defence-splitting pass from midfielder Mudathir Yahaya. Dube’s composed finish not only sealed the points but also marked his first goal of the season in all competitions.

The strike triggered wild celebrations among Yanga fans, who filled the stadium with noise and colour, sensing this result could set the tone for the club’s ambitions in this campaign. Yanga began the match at a blistering pace, dominating possession and carving out several clear scoring opportunities in the first half.

Pacome Zouzoua came close to giving the home side an early lead, only to miss a golden chance in the second minute. Four minutes later, winger Maxi Nzengeli rose highest to connect with a cross, but his powerful header was denied by AS FAR goalkeeper Ahmed Reda Tagnaouti, who produced a fine reflex save.

The pressure continued to mount on the visitors as Dube fired straight at Tagnaouti when well placed, while Ibrahim Hamad alias Bacca who shot narrowly wide moments later. Maxi Nzengeli had another opportunity when he connected with an excellent delivery from right-back Israel Mwenda, but once again Tagnaouti stood firm, pushing the header away.

Despite Yanga’s dominance, AS FAR appeared content to sit deep and absorb pressure, rarely threatening Djigui Diarra’s goal during the opening half. Gonaalves made his first tactical adjustment at halftime, bringing on Edmund John for Celestin Ecua.

The change injected fresh energy into midfield and helped Yanga maintain their attacking rhythm, eventually leading to Dube’s breakthrough goal. The strike jolted AS FAR into action as the Moroccan side began pushing forward with greater urgency.

Their best opportunity came just two minutes after the restart when Youssef El Fahli’s header forced Diarra into a brilliant save. The Malian shot-stopper was called into action again in the 76th minute, reacting sharply to preserve Yanga’s narrow lead.

Sensing the need for renewed energy up front and to protect the advantage, Gonaalves introduced Andy Boyeli for Dube and Moussa Bala Conte for Maxi Nzengeli in the 82nd minute. The substitutions helped Yanga maintain balance and composure in the closing stages as they closed out a vital win.

With this victory, Yanga have sent a strong message to their Group B rivals and taken an important first step toward their quarterfinal ambitions. .

Mzize’s historic feat as he lands Goal of the Year

Dar es Salaam. Young Africans (Yanga) striker Clement Mzize has etched his name into African football history after becoming the first Tanzanian to win the CAF African Goal of the Year Award since the category was introduced in 2001. The 21-year-old forward was crowned on Wednesday night in Morocco, triumphing over a competitive list of 12 nominees shortlisted by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

Mzize earned the recognition for his sensational long-range equalizer against DR Congo giants TP Mazembe during a CAF Champions League clash at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in January 2025. With Yanga trailing, Mzize unleashed a ferocious 30-yard strike that rocketed past the goalkeeper, igniting electric celebrations inside the stadium. The goal shifted the momentum of the match, eventually helping Yanga secure a memorable 31 victory.

The spectacular effort also earned him the CAF Player of the Week award for that round of fixtures. The shortlist featured some of the continent’s brightest talents, including Abdellah Ouazane (Morocco), Anas Roshdy (Egypt), Asharaf Tapsoba (Burkina Faso), Barbra Banda (Zambia), Calvin Fely (Madagascar), and Ghizlane Chebbak (Morocco).

Others in contention were Ibrahim Adel (Egypt), Jean-Claude Girumugisha, Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo (South Africa), Oussama Lamlioui (Morocco), Refiloe Jane (South Africa), and Soufiane Bayazid (Algeria). Despite the strong field, Mzize’s strike stood out for its technique, power, timing, and the magnitude of the moment.

Mzize expressed deep gratitude and pride, dedicating the honour not only to Young Africans but to the entire nation. “I am very happy and proud to win this award.

It is for all Tanzanians,” he said. “I thank my teammates, the Yanga management, our fans, and our members.

Their support pushed me to this level. This award has inspired me to work harder in my career so that one day I can become one of the greatest players on the continent.

” Mzize’s triumph adds to Tanzania’s growing footprint in African football. He becomes the second player from the Tanzania Mainland Premier League to claim the award after Senegalese winger Pape Ousmane Sakho, who won it in 2022 while playing for Simba.

According to historical records, the first Tanzanian to win a CAF award was Mbwana Samatta, who clinched the African Inter-Club Player of the Year (based in Africa) award during his time with TP Mazembe. In 2016, the East Africa region also celebrated Uganda’s goalkeeper Denis Onyango, who won the African Player of the Year (based in Africa) award with Mamelodi Sundowns.

The gala night also witnessed other East African successes. Somalia’s Omar Abdulkadir Artan was named Referee of the Year, while Uganda’s Shamirah Nabadda won the women’s category in the same field.

Their achievements, together with Mzize’s, gave the Cecafa region an impressive three awards on the prestigious night. CAF also used the ceremony to recognise African leaders who contributed significantly to the development of football on the continent.

Among those honoured was Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan, celebrated for her outstanding contribution to the sport. Kenyan President William Ruto and Uganda’s Yoweri Museveni were also acknowledged for their leadership roles as their nations co-hosted the highly successful African Nations Championship (CHAN).

Mzize’s triumph marks not only a personal milestone but also a proud moment for Tanzania, reinforcing the country’s growing influence in African football. .