Category: The Citizen

Mwanza. Barrick Tanzania has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding national health, safety and environmental regulations, saying this is why it has invested in constructing its Tailings Storage Facilities (TSFs) to international standards across its mines.

The company says the facilities, located at North Mara, Bulyanhulu and Buzwagi, which is currently undergoing closure, ensure that neither workers nor surrounding communities are exposed to risks arising from gold-processing waste. Speaking at a tailings-management conference underway in Mwanza, Barrick Buzwagi Mine Closure Manager, Engineer Zonnastraal Mumbi, said the company continues to conduct rigorous monitoring of all TSFs in line with its corporate policy on health, safety and environmental stewardship.

“Barrick has put in place robust plans to ensure that toxic-waste dams do not pose risks to employees or neighbouring communities. We also ensure full compliance with national laws and guidelines on TSF management, while working closely with government institutions responsible for environmental protection, health and workplace safety,” he said.

He added that the company routinely conducts tests on drinking-water wells and surface-water sources around its mining areas to ensure communities remain protected. Mr Mumbi also commended the government for organising regular training sessions and seminars on the management of water and tailings dams.

Opening the seminar, the Director of Water Quality at the Ministry of Water, Heri Chisute, said the Government is committed to ensuring that the construction and operation of tailings dams adhere to high standards in line with the Water Resources Management Act and relevant safety requirements. He said environmental safety and compliance were not only legal obligations, but also moral duties owed to communities that depend on such systems for their wellbeing.

According to the Ministry of Water, Tanzania currently has more than 700 water dams and at least 60 tailings storage facilities. The conference, held under the theme Emergency Preparedness for Managing Risks Associated with Water Dams and Toxic Tailings, has been organised by the Ministry of Water in collaboration with the Tanzania Chamber of Mines (TCM) and City Engineering Company.

It brings together participants from both the private sector and government, including mine operators. .

Lusaka. The Director General of the East, Central and Southern Africa Health Community (ECSA-HC), Dr Ntuli Kapologwe, has issued a clarion call for Africa to take its rightful place at the forefront of global health governance, insisting that the continent must no longer remain a passive observer in international decision-making.

Addressing delegates at the Global Health Diplomacy Workshop in Lusaka, Dr Ntuli said it was imperative for African nations to adopt a more assertive, united and strategic posture as the global health landscape undergoes profound transformation. “Africa must not remain on the periphery of global decision-making,” he declared.

“We must step forward as a region that speaks with one voice, negotiates with clarity, and asserts our right to shape global frameworks in ways that reflect our realities. This is the moment for Africa to be a proactive architect of global health governance.

” The workshop, convened on November 20, 2025 under the theme Leveraging the Pandemic Agreement, Revised International Health Regulations (IHR 2025), and the Right to Health to Advance Africa’s Global Health Diplomacy Agenda, brought together senior officials, diplomats and technical experts from across East, Central and Southern Africa. The event was organised by ECSA-HC in partnership with WHO AFRO and EQUINET.

Dr Ntuli noted that Africa stands at a pivotal crossroads following the adoption of the Pandemic Agreement and the Revised IHR (2025). “The global health architecture is shifting before our eyes, and the decisions made today will shape how our countries prepare for and respond to future threats,” he said.

He highlighted ECSA-HC’s longstanding investment in building regional health diplomacy capacity, describing the workshop as another step towards strengthening Africa’s collective negotiating influence. He also announced the forthcoming ECSA-HC Certificate Course on Health Diplomacy, emphasising that Africa’s ability to shape global health governance hinges on cultivating a new generation of skilled negotiators capable of navigating complex international processes with confidence.

Opening the workshop, Zambia’s Permanent Secretary for Health, Dr Kennedy Lishimpi, reaffirmed the country’s commitment to strengthening regional and multilateral collaboration “Regional cooperation is no longer optional–it is the backbone of our collective health security,” he told participants. Dr Lishimpi underscored the significance of the recently endorsed Pandemic Agreement, describing it as a framework underpinned by equity, solidarity and fair access–principles long championed by African nations.

He also highlighted the transformative potential of the Revised IHR (2025), which introduce stronger obligations for early detection, reporting and One Health integration. However, he cautioned that Africa must engage with these global reforms judiciously: “We must safeguard our sovereignty, protect our people, and strengthen our resilience as these global instruments take shape.

” He further reminded delegates that diplomacy remains a vital pillar of health security. “Diplomacy in global health is just as important as vaccines or medicines.

Without diplomatic strength, technical solutions cannot succeed.” During a panel session, Dr Charles Kuria Njuguna of WHO Africa reflected on Africa’s negotiating experience during the drafting of the Pandemic Agreement.

He noted that while the continent fought tirelessly to keep equity at the centre of the discussions, “the struggle is far from over.” “The question now is not what the agreements say, but how Africa ensures these commitments become reality,” he warned.

He stressed the continent’s urgent need for stronger technology transfer, the effective use of TRIPS flexibilities, expanded regional manufacturing, and enhanced surveillance capabilities. “We cannot talk about preparedness if Africa does not have the ability to detect, produce and respond from within the continent,” he added.

ECSA-HC, which serves nine Member States and provides technical support to several additional countries, continues to play a central role in strengthening health systems, advancing regional cooperation and promoting evidence-based policy across the region. The Lusaka workshop forms part of the organisation’s ongoing efforts to bolster health governance and preparedness.

It reaffirmed the region’s commitment to championing a unified and influential African voice in global health–one that leads, rather than follows, in shaping the future of global health security .

There’s a Swahili saying that almost every Tanzanian grew up hearing: “Mkubwa hakosei.” Translation: the big one never makes mistakes.

It sounds respectful, elegant even, and it’s perfect for keeping your mouth shut when someone older, higher up, or just plainly “in charge” says something. Respectful? Sure.

Practical? Not really. Because here’s the truth: sometimes, just sometimes, mkubwa does make mistakes.

Leaders, bosses, elders, that VIP in the office, or even the “wise uncle” who claims to know everything about your life and yes, they mess up. And when that happens, who actually dares to tell them? Spoiler: almost nobody.

Tanzania, let’s be honest. We are experts at muttering in WhatsApp groups, rolling our eyes in meetings, and sighing dramatically in traffic jams.

But say it out loud? Stand up and say, “Mkubwa, you are wrong”? Good luck with that. We whisper to our friends: “Huyu kiongozi hajui anachofanya,” or “Bosi amezoea kubisha vitu,” but face-to-face? Silence.

Respect is code for “nod, smile, survive.” Meanwhile, mistakes pile up like potholes in Dar es Salaam after the rains.

Policies that make no sense, road projects that confuse more than they solve, decisions that look shiny on paper but leave ordinary people screaming silently into their tea mugs. Here’s the reality: when a mkubwa messes up and nobody speaks up, the consequences don’t magically disappear.

That road construction project that was supposed to fix traffic? Hello, now it’s a mudslide on steroids. That government policy that promised “miracles”? Citizens are still scratching their heads.

The office manager who decided overtime is mandatory for no reason? Everyone’s crying quietly in their cubicles. Mistakes are human.

Silence is national. Rarely, someone does speak up.

Usually in whispers, side comments, or sarcastic memes that go viral because they dare not say it directly. Example: a local councillor announces a new rule that makes zero sense.

One brave soul finally says, “But this is going to hurt people.” The room freezes.

You can almost hear the proverb hitting like a whip: Mkubwa hakosei. The proverb isn’t wrong, respect matters.

But it stops accountability dead in its tracks. When people suffer quietly, it’s not because of disrespect.

It’s because no one wants to be labelled “the rude one” or “the problem child.” But respect should never mean silence.

Respect should coexist with honesty. Hierarchy shouldn’t come with immunity.

Mkubwa can be wrong. And if we don’t point it out — politely, strategically, humorously if needed — nothing changes.

We need leaders who can take a hint, admit a mistake, and course-correct without turning it into a scandal. And citizens who can say, “We see this, we care, and yes, you messed up,” without feeling like they’re about to be exiled.

The silver lining is that Tanzanians have mastered the art of silent protest. memes, sarcastic TikTok videos, dramatic sighs in traffic, that one WhatsApp group that never sleeps.

We laugh, we complain, we vent and sometimes, it’s the only way we survive. But jokes won’t fix potholes, mismanaged projects, or bad policies.

Courage will. Honesty will.

Accountability will. The next time someone whispers, “Mkubwa hakosei,” remember: maybe they do.

But maybe, just maybe, it’s time someone dared to say otherwise, tactfully, firmly, and with a bit of Tanzanian sass. Because if we keep nodding quietly while mkubwa messes up the only thing growing faster than potholes and confusing policies will be our collective frustration.

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By Martha Chacha Dodoma. The Tanzania Police Force has announced that it is closely monitoring the national security situation and stands ready to take action against any violations of the law.

In a public statement issued from Police Headquarters in Dodoma on November 21, 2025 the Force cautioned that it has observed the emergence of various groups and individuals issuing inflammatory remarks that could incite unrest or sow divisions within communities — conduct that is contrary to the law. The Police warned that it will not hesitate to act against anyone engaging in such behaviour, regardless of whether the language used appears subtle or overtly provocative.

According to the statement, law-enforcement authorities will continue to respond firmly to any declarations or actions intended to fuel hatred or trigger disorder in the country. The Police emphasised that its primary responsibility is to safeguard peace, maintain tranquillity, and foster national unity — all of which are crucial for economic growth.

The Force further stressed that any disruption of public order would negatively affect every citizen, economically, socially, and in matters of security. The statement was issued by the Police Spokesperson from Police Headquarters in Dodoma.

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Historically, women had virtually been the only receivers of torment at the domestic front–courtesy of cruel husbands. Or so reports showed.

Children have suffered too in the hands of everybody in the homestead, including house-helps and older siblings. In this sense, the media would report such cases of localized cruelty as “domestic violence”.

Increasingly, cases of husbands being bashed by their wives are being recorded. More and more men are coming out to reveal that their wives are beating them.

Outside the homestead, cases of violence pitting men against women and vice versa are presently rampant too, irrespective of marital status. Young men and young women in a relationship tend to resort to bullying as a way of “teaching” each other “good manners”.

So, the term “domestic violence” was virtually discarded. “Gender-based violence”, in short GBV, has come to the fore.

However, the term “gender-based violence” has become a cliche, hence, boring. We therefore suggest–albeit at the risk of annoying NGO-speak fanatics–that when you’re talking about a husband beating his wife, just be straight about it.

Headlines should read: ‘Man accused of beating wife’ and not ‘Man accused of committing gender-based violence against his wife.’ Let’s now look at this headline that appeared on a Friday, November 7 daily, which reads: ‘Male victims urged to report gender-based violence cases’.

It’s a story in which a senior police officer encourages men not to remain silent when they’re bashed by their wives or girlfriends. How about this more direct headline: Men urged to report when women beat them’.

A Kigoma resident, one Ms AP, quoted as purportedly saying in regard to violence amongst couples: “The root cause of many of these issues is that some engage in secret affairs EVEN when their marriages are in trouble” The use of the adjective “even” in the above quote gives the impression that it’s when a couple’s marriage is NOT in trouble (peaceful) that they’re expected to indulge in secret affairs (read cheating)! We assume the adjective was inadvertently inserted. By the way, Page 1 of the same edition had a story entitled, ‘Editors Forum, Media Council want probe on polls violence’ and the scribbler says this in his intro: “Leading media organisations are asking for a thorough investigation into widespread challenges and violence during and after the general ELECTIONS on October 29.” It bores us stiff when we’re forced to remind our scribbling colleagues–again and again–that what takes place in Bongo after every five years isn’t general “elections” but “a general ELECTION” in which case we go to the polls to choose a president, MPs and councillors.

However, if you’re keen on using the word “elections,” then drop the adjective “general.” Simply say: October 29 elections.

In another publication dated Saturday, September 13, there’s a Page 4 story entitled, ‘Mutukula residents celebrates water projects launch’. In Para 6, the scribbler reports on one of the activities undertaken by the Uhuru Torch bearers: “During its race in Kagera Region, the Uhuru Torch inaugurated and laid foundation stones ON 18 projects worth Sh23.8bn across eight councils” Lay foundation stones on? Nope; we saylay foundation stones FOR In the last paragraph, the scribbler writes: “Residents EXPRESSED joy that their water woes WILL finally be addressed” There’s grammatical inconsistency here and we’ll sort it out thus: “Residents EXPRESSED joy that their water woes WOULD finally be addressed” On Monday, October 17, another publication purports to quote the scribbler’s key source as saying: “We in the government have reflected on the need to have a ministry that will handle WITH youth affairs” An esteemed reader, one George S, who drew our attention to this one, says the preposition “with” is a spoiler and should’ve been deleted.

We agree with him. Ah, this treacherous language called English! .

By New Vision Reporter Africa’s story in 2026 will not just be written by governments and corporations — it will be shaped by those who give. Across the continent, a new generation of philanthropic institutions is transforming charity into empowerment, funding into inclusion, and kindness into policy.

From billion-dollar global giants to emerging homegrown forces, here are the 10 foundations to watch in Africa in 2026 — each redefining what modern giving looks like. 1.

Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation — Science with Scale The Gates Foundation remains one of Africa’s most powerful partners in global health and development. Its continued investment in vaccine access, malaria eradication, and women’s health across sub-Saharan Africa keeps it at the forefront of transformative philanthropy.

In 2026, expect deeper collaborations with local African health ministries and education initiatives across the continent. 2.

Maser Foundation — The New Face of Modern Philanthropy Maser Foundation, founded in 2025 by visionary entrepreneur and author Prateek Suri CEO of Maser Group, has rapidly become a driving force for change across Africa. Rooted in the belief of “Capital with Conscience,” the foundation focuses on education, healthcare, women’s empowerment, and sustainable development, creating meaningful impact in local communities.

As it enters a new phase of growth, 2026 will see Maser Foundation forging deeper collaborations with African governments to strengthen national programs in women-led entrepreneurship, child welfare, and social development. Under Suri’s inspiring leadership, the foundation embodies a new era of purposeful philanthropy–where compassion, vision, and partnership unite to shape a brighter future for the continent.

3. Mo Ibrahim Foundation — Leadership as a Legacy Few foundations have influenced African governance as profoundly as Mo Ibrahim’s.

Through its Governance Index and Fellowship Program, it continues to champion ethical leadership, accountability, and transparency across African nations. In 2026, expect a renewed push toward nurturing the next generation of African policy visionaries.

4. Aspire Coronation Trust (ACT) Foundation — Homegrown Hope Based in Nigeria but active across the continent, ACT Foundation has become a powerhouse for youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, and environmental innovation.

Its grant programs empower small organizations tackling big problems, and its storytelling-driven campaigns are attracting a younger donor base eager to make a difference. 5.

Tony Elumelu Foundation — The Entrepreneur’s Engine With its $100 million commitment to funding African entrepreneurs, the Tony Elumelu Foundation continues to be one of the continent’s most influential private-sector impact engines. Its entrepreneurship program has supported over 15,000 start-ups and is expected to expand further in 2026 — making it one of Africa’s most scalable empowerment models.

6. Higherlife Foundation — Educating a Continent Founded in Zimbabwe, Higherlife Foundation focuses on education and youth development.

Backed by the Masiyiwa family, it provides scholarships, digital learning hubs, and leadership opportunities for African youth — with plans to scale its programs into East and Central Africa. 7.

Sterling One Foundation — Corporate Purpose, Continental Reach This Nigerian foundation blends corporate strategy with social innovation. With projects in gender equality, climate action, and education, it’s one of the fastest-growing philanthropic brands to watch.

Its partnerships with African creatives and innovators make its impact both practical and visible. 8.

African Philanthropy Forum — The Connector The APF doesn’t just fund — it unites. Acting as a continental platform for philanthropists and foundations, it builds networks, trains organizations, and amplifies local giving.

Expect it to be a key player in standardizing impact reporting and promoting African-led giving models in 2026. 9. Donors for Africa Foundation — The Empowerment Architect This dynamic platform works to strengthen Africa’s nonprofit ecosystem by training leaders and improving sustainability models.

Its partnerships with governments and private institutions make it a backbone of capacity-building and social innovation across the continent. 10. Open Society Foundations (Africa Region) — Defending Democracy Long known for championing justice, governance, and human rights, the Open Society Foundations remain vital in protecting civic space across Africa.

As the continent faces new challenges in governance and equality, OSF’s presence remains both bold and necessary. Africa’s golden era of giving 2026 marks the rise of Philanthropy 3.

0 — where purpose is measured not in dollars, but in dignity. The Maser Foundation brings glamour to giving; the Gates Foundation brings science to service; and African-born initiatives like ACT, Sterling One, and Higherlife bring authenticity to action.

Together, they’re not just funding projects — they’re funding the future. .

Dar es Salaam. The Bank of Tanzania (BoT) has issued a renewed call for heightened public vigilance as it intensifies its campaign against counterfeit currency, reminding citizens that those convicted of producing or circulating fake notes face some of the nation’s most severe penalties — including life imprisonment.

Addressing journalists on November 21, 2025 during a workshop in Dodoma, senior central bank official Mr Atufigwegwe Mwakabalula warned that counterfeiters are rapidly advancing their techniques, making it increasingly important for the public to distinguish genuine banknotes from forged ones. Mr Mwakabalula detailed a range of embedded security features, beginning with the watermark bearing the portrait of the late Father of the Nation, Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere.

He noted that Tanzanian banknotes also feature an impeccable see-through register — a design in which partial images printed on both sides align perfectly when held up to the light. “Latent images appear when the note is tilted, and tactile markings at the corners enable visually impaired users to identify denominations,” he explained.

Additional safeguards include Spark colour-shifting ink and an embedded security thread, both of which become more visible when the note is raised against the light. Some elements — such as hidden fibres and denomination indicators — are detectable only under ultraviolet light, further complicating efforts by counterfeiters.

“These are intentional layers of protection,” he emphasised. The gravity of the central bank’s warning is reinforced by the law: under the Penal Code, offences involving the production, possession, or circulation of counterfeit currency fall under forgery and counterfeiting crimes, carrying a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

Authorities consider such crimes a direct assault on economic stability, undermining trust in the financial system and distorting commercial transactions. Mr Mwakabalula urged the public to scrutinise banknotes carefully, especially during rapid cash exchanges typical of markets, transport hubs, and late-night business operations — settings where fake notes most commonly circulate.

He further encouraged citizens to report any suspected counterfeit currency to financial institutions or the police, stressing that “an informed citizen is the strongest safeguard”. The Bank of Tanzania maintains that safeguarding the integrity of the national currency is a shared duty — one that relies equally on advanced security features and the vigilance of the public .

Dodoma. The Court of Appeal has dismissed an appeal by Tanga Cement PLC, affirming an earlier decision that barred the company from relying on documents that were never submitted to the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) during the objection stage of a tax dispute.

In a judgment delivered last week, a panel of three justices — Judges R. J.

Kerefu, G. J.

Mdemu and L. A.

Mansoor — upheld the findings of the Tax Revenue Appeals Tribunal (TRAT), which ruled that the Tax Revenue Appeals Board (TRAB) erred in admitting a set of documents marked as Exhibit A-6. The documents had been used by Tanga Cement to challenge TRA’s Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) assessment for 20162018. TRA had in June 2020 issued a PAYE certificate demanding over Sh181 million. Tanga Cement objected to the assessment, arguing that TRA had wrongly treated housing benefits, failed to deduct employees’ pension contributions, and miscalculated late payment interest.

TRA rejected the objection, prompting the company to appeal to TRAB. TRAB partly ruled in favour of Tanga Cement after admitting the disputed documents — mainly email correspondence and payroll reports — as evidence.

TRA challenged the decision before the TRAT, arguing that the documents had never been submitted as required under Section 51(5) and (6) of the Tax Administration Act (TAA). The TRAT agreed, holding that TRAB violated procedural rules by admitting evidence that was not furnished to the Commissioner General during the objection process.

In its final ruling, the Court of Appeal fully backed the TRAT’s position. Documents must be filed at the objection stage The Court emphasised that tax law strictly requires taxpayers to submit all documents they intend to rely on when lodging an objection with the Commissioner General.

Failure to do so bars them from later introducing new evidence at the appellate stages unless they first obtain leave from TRAB — something Tanga Cement did not do. The justices described Section 51(5) and (6) of the TAA as “crystal clear,” stating that a taxpayer must comply at the earliest stage because “a tax dispute begins when the taxpayer objects to a tax decision.

” The Court further rejected Tanga Cement’s argument that the documents were provided during TRA’s audit and therefore should be admissible. The Justices held that documents exchanged during an audit cannot replace the mandatory requirement to attach evidence at the objection stage.

A review of TRA’s final objection determination also showed no reference to the documents, disproving the company’s claim that the Commissioner General had relied on them. With these findings, the Court concluded that TRAB had acted outside the law by admitting the documents, and upheld the TRAT ruling that nullified the earlier relief granted to Tanga Cement.

The appeal was dismissed in its entirety, with costs awarded to TRA. .

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. .

Dar es Salaam. Efforts to maintain a healthy lifestyle are increasingly disrupted by conflicting advice circulating on social media, with medical experts warning that the confusing content is influencing decisions that directly affect people’s wellbeing.

From diet trends to exercise routines, users are confronted with sharply contradictory messages. Some influencers claim breakfast is harmful, while others insist it is essential.

Certain accounts warn that running damages the joints, particularly for people who are overweight, while others argue that walking alone does not provide sufficient fitness benefits. For many social media users, the confusion has already had real-life consequences.

Rehema, a mother of two, attempted a 30-day no-carb challenge she found on TikTok but later fainted at work. “I thought it would help me slim down quickly.

I never knew extreme diets could be dangerous,” she said. She told The Citizen that her doctor later informed her the diet was unsuitable for her body type.

Others report that the pressure of comparing themselves to influencers is affecting their mental wellbeing. Joseph Mwaijande, a university student, said constant exposure to perfect bodies and routines can be emotionally draining.

“You see perfect bodies and perfect routines every day. It makes you feel like you’re doing everything wrong, even when you’re trying,” he said.

Health professionals say this wave of mixed information is no longer harmless entertainment. It is shaping how people eat, exercise, and evaluate their bodies.

Nutritionist Jumanne Mushi told The Citizen that more patients are now following routines suggested by online personalities rather than consulting qualified experts. “Most viral videos compress complicated scientific facts into catchy one-liners, creating misleading impressions,” he said.

He added that whether someone should skip breakfast depends on individual needs, lifestyle and medical conditions, yet online trends present it as a universal rule. Mr Mushi also noted that many people misunderstand why some individuals gain weight more easily than others.

“Some people burn calories faster because of genetics, age, muscle mass or hormones. Two people can eat the same meal and respond very differently.

It’s biology, not failure,” he explained. Fitness trainers report a similar trend.

Gym instructor Hamadi Nassorro said debates comparing running and walking often ignore crucial factors such as age, injuries and personal goals. “Both forms of exercise have benefits, but online content rarely includes the details people need to make informed decisions,” he said.

Mr Nassorro added that fitness content often hides the reality behind influencer physiques. “Many influencers train for hours or use supplements they never disclose.

The public sees results, not the process,” he explained. He said this creates unrealistic expectations that leave people discouraged.

“When someone doesn’t get the same results in one month, they think they have failed. It’s unfair pressure,” he said.

On the other hand, Dr Magnus Msango told The Citizen that extreme diet challenges circulating online are a growing concern. “We are treating cases of dizziness, fatigue and nutrient deficiencies caused by diet plans people copy from influencers,” he said.

He added that before attempting a trending diet, individuals should speak to a nutritionist or their doctor to ensure it is safe. Health specialists caution that while social media can offer useful tips, relying on unverified content increases the risk of harmful decisions.

They urge users to seek professional guidance before adopting strict diets or intense workout plans. .