Category: The Citizen

Dodoma. President Samia Suluhu Hassan has tasked Prime Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba with ensuring a rapid implementation of the promises outlined in the CCM 2025/30 election manifesto so that all planned initiatives are delivered as expected.

She emphasised that, as pledged during the campaign and reflected in the CCM 2025/2030 manifesto, there is a need to accelerate the execution of planned programmes to achieve results within a short timeframe. President Samia issued the directive today, Friday, November 14, 2025 during an address following Dr Nchemba’s swearing-in at Chamwino State House in Dodoma.

She noted, however, that delivering these initiatives requires adequate funding. Drawing on his extensive experience in financial matters, Dr Mwigulu is expected to support the Finance Minister, once appointed, in ensuring that the necessary resources are mobilised to accomplish the tasks.

“Implementing all these initiatives requires funding, and you come from the finance sector. Over the past five years, you have been familiar with the processes we followed to secure finances.

“Therefore, you will oversee the individual who assumes your counterpart role at the Ministry of Finance, so that resources can be mobilised and the work executed. In short, you have a very significant responsibility,” she said .

Mwanza. The Catholic Archdiocese of Mwanza has held a special Mass to pray for all those who lost their lives or were injured, to offer condolences to Tanzanians, and to comfort families affected by the tragic loss of loved ones during the unrest and demonstrations linked to the 2025 General Election.

The violence erupted during and after polling day on October 29, 2025 across several regions, including Dar es Salaam, Mwanza, Mara, Arusha, Dodoma, Mbeya, Songwe, Ruvuma, and Geita, resulting in deaths, injuries, and widespread damage to both public and private property. The solemn service took place yesterday, Thursday, November 13, 2025 at the Cathedral of the Epiphany Bugando, Archdiocese of Mwanza, from 10:30 a.

m. to 12:15 p.

m., led by Archbishop Renatus Nkwande.

Hundreds of congregants attended the Mass, which is part of the Archdiocese’s commemorative services for the deceased in November. In his opening remarks and sermon, Archbishop Nkwande described the events as a national shame, calling them condemnable and a matter that demands public denunciation.

He expressed deep sympathy for all victims, emphasising that the sorrow extends nationally, as Tanzania has suffered a tragedy unprecedented in its history. “We were trapped inside like in a box, unable to see outside, enveloped in darkness.

It is humiliating and disgraceful. We must pray to ensure it never happens again.

What was done shows contempt and shame for our country; it is a grave national tragedy that must lead us to kneel and seek God’s forgiveness,” he said. Archbishop Nkwande lamented that some Tanzanians were seen celebrating the violence, praising the perpetrators, and mocking the victims, warning that such behaviour sets a harmful precedent for the next generation.

“We have seen videos of killings. That is not defence; that is perpetuating murder.

What we witnessed is sheer cruelty. They have wronged God and us Tanzanians.

We are called to repent and embrace the Gospel,” he added. Referring to scriptures from Matthew, Psalm 13, Luke 6 and 25, and Wisdom 3:1, Archbishop Nkwande urged all who participated–whether through silence, commands, or derision–to repent for their part in the killings and called for all sides to return to dialogue.

“Our heartfelt condolences to Tanzanians. Let this be a lesson that must never be repeated.

If we truly want reconciliation, we must return to the table of discussion, and those involved must admit their sins,” he stressed. He also noted that some victims had been exercising their right to express themselves but were not heard, while others were simply at home, leaving hospitals, or fleeing in fear, unaccustomed to hearing gunfire.

The Archbishop prayed for the deceased, asking God to forgive their sins, and urged the faithful to remember and support the bereaved families by visiting, offering condolences, comforting, and giving encouragement. “In the eyes of the foolish, death may seem like a loss or an escape, but we do not know what they were seeking or praying for.

They sought justice, safety, and to be heard,” he said. He warned that killing is a sin, as is vengeance, and no one should plan or intend to kill.

Archbishop Nkwande expressed concern over those who commit murder to instil fear and urged Christians to abandon such actions. Among the congregants, Joyce Antony commended Archbishop Nkwande for his comforting words, noting the deep shock caused by the events.

“We are truly saddened and hurt by the loss of our youth and the injuries sustained. I urge leaders to unite and act with love,” she said.

Liberatus Ndegeulaya also emphasised the need for opposing parties to return to dialogue, reach consensus, and start afresh. “Through the Archbishop’s message, we learn that we must prioritise humanity built on justice, which fosters peace,” Ndegeulaya said.

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President Samia Suluhu Hassan has fulfilled her constitutional obligation. Within 14 days of being sworn in as President of the United Republic of Tanzania, she was required to submit to Parliament the name of the person she proposed as Prime Minister, for Members of Parliament to approve.

The Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania, Articles 51 (1) and (2), provides this mandatory guidance. On November 13, 2025 the Speaker of Parliament, Mussa Zungu, received the nomination of Mwigulu Nchemba.

Subsequently, Parliament approved him with a majority vote. Mwigulu Nchemba is now the 13th Prime Minister of Tanzania.

Having served four years and seven months as Minister of Finance during President Samia’s first term, he has been promoted. President Samia clearly appreciated his performance.

Mwigulu, who was 35 years old in 2010, first became the Member of Parliament for Iramba West. A member of the ruling CCM party, he demonstrated loyalty to both the party and the nation.

His dedication was evident in his work and public service. In 2011, while serving as an MP, he was appointed and endorsed by the CCM National Executive Committee (NEC) as Secretary for Finance and Economic Affairs (Treasurer).

In 2012, he was promoted to Deputy Secretary-General of CCM for mainland Tanzania, holding the position until 2015. In 2013, while Deputy Secretary-General, he was also appointed Deputy Minister of Finance during President Jakaya Kikwete’s tenure, who was also CCM Chairperson. In December 2015, Mwigulu was appointed Minister of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries in the first cabinet of the fifth President, Dr John Magufuli.

In June 2016, he was moved to serve as Minister of Home Affairs, a post he held for two years before being sidelined due to rising road accidents. In May 2020, he returned to the Cabinet as Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs.

On March 19, 2021 Tanzania welcomed a new President, Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, following the passing of Dr Magufuli. After being sworn in, she appointed Dr Philip Mpango as Vice President and subsequently Mwigulu as Minister of Finance.

During four years of collaboration, Mwigulu delivered results that earned President Samia’s trust and prompted his elevation to Prime Minister. His discipline, accountability, and performance were decisive factors in the appointment.

Why Mwigulu? The Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) report of September 2025 showed monthly collections reached Sh3.47 trillion, nearly double the Sh1.8 trillion collected when Mwigulu was first appointed Finance Minister. Reports from the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) indicate that Tanzania’s fiscal health strengthened significantly during his tenure.

The country’s GDP growth for 2024/2025 exceeded projections, rising from an estimated 5.5% to 5.

6%, compared to below 4% when he first assumed the Finance Ministry. Government fiscal policies kept inflation low at 3.

1%, and the Tanzanian shilling strengthened, with the US dollar trading at Sh2,400 compared with Sh2,800 previously. These achievements reflect the effective partnership between President Samia and her finance minister.

In October 2025, the African Union released the African Regional Integration (ARI) report, showing Tanzania leading East Africa in economic growth and value addition, surpassing Burundi and Kenya, and leaving Uganda, Rwanda, South Sudan, the DRC, and Somalia behind. These results are under the leadership of President Samia and Finance Minister Mwigulu.

Over four years and seven months of President Samia’s first term, Tanzania’s economy has flourished. Major strategic projects such as the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project (JNHPP), Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), and Kigongo-Busisi Bridge have progressed significantly, with completion below 40% at the start of her tenure, but advancing steadily under Mwigulu’s financial oversight.

Reviewing his record, it is evident why President Samia chose Mwigulu and not another MP. His stewardship of the Finance Ministry laid the foundation for his promotion to Prime Minister.

The same Mwigulu? In 2013, during a Parliamentary session, MP Livingstone Lusinde (CCM, Mtera) noted that Mwigulu and he alone were capable of handling opposition tactics effectively. This built the perception that Mwigulu was a politically astute and formidable parliamentarian.

During President Kikwete’s era, Mwigulu was known for his sharp parliamentary debates and effective handling of opposition arguments. Under President Magufuli, he displayed his style of scrutinising opponents’ points rigorously, winning favour with leadership.

Under President Samia, Mwigulu has shown maturity, providing explanations when required rather than engaging in disputes, signalling his political growth and alignment with her leadership style. Will he serve President Samia effectively? Mwigulu’s appointment reflects the continuation of Tanzania’s founding vision: a young man from humble beginnings, who pursued education diligently, rising to the highest offices of government.

Born on January 7, 1975 he attended Makunda Primary School in Singida, Ilboru Secondary School in Arusha, and Mazengo Secondary School in Dodoma. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Economics (2004), a Master’s (2006), and a PhD in Economics from the University of Dar es Salaam.

Before entering politics, he was a Senior Economist at the Bank of Tanzania. As Deputy Finance Minister, he earned the nickname “Sokoine II,” for his principled stand against ghost employees and misuse of public funds, demonstrating integrity and a hands-on approach to governance.

He combated tax evasion and implemented financial oversight mechanisms effectively. His achievements as Finance Minister and commitment to reform suggest he is well-placed to assist President Samia fully.

While he harbours presidential ambitions, Mwigulu is expected to dedicate himself entirely to the Prime Ministerial role, ensuring effective execution of government policy and supporting President Samia’s agenda. .

Dar es Salaam. Bus manufacturers and vehicle assembly firms are preparing to showcase new innovations aimed at transforming Tanzania’s public transport sector.

Land Transport Regulatory Authority (Latra) Director General Habibu Suluo said the first-ever Sustainable Land Transport Week will also feature international industry players, including Yutong and HOWO, demonstrating energy-efficient vehicles and smart fleet-management solutions tailored for the African market. The event is scheduled for November 2429 and will follow the Latra Awards for outstanding service providers.

“Over 800 participants from across the globe will engage in discussions on sustainability, innovation, safety, customer care and operational efficiency in the land transport industry,” said Mr Suluo at a press briefing yesterday. He added that the event will offer daladala, truck and bus owners the opportunity to interact directly with manufacturers and assembly companies, particularly to explore the purchase of electric vehicles.

Speaking on the awards, Mr Suluo noted that under Section 6, Act, Cap 413, Latra is mandated to foster effective competition among regulated service providers. “The awards recognise outstanding and responsible operators, improving competition and strengthening the transport ecosystem,” he said.

Mr Suluo also highlighted improvements in service quality, noting that operators have invested in luxury buses and enhanced customer experience. “Despite challenges, we have not seen strikes or major disruptions because operators continuously seek innovative solutions,” he said.

The awards will recognise intercity passenger bus operators, cargo transporters, ride-hailing services, providers of vehicle-tracking technologies and journalists or media outlets promoting road safety and quality service. Latra has also begun certifying truck drivers and passenger service operators to ensure professionalism and accountability.

“The awards are not merely ceremonial. They drive sustained reliability, innovation and efficiency,” Mr Suluo said.

“As a country, we cannot progress in isolation. Collaboration with stakeholders, particularly in sectors like agriculture where transport is vital, contributes to national economic growth,” he said .

Dar es Salaam. The Bank of Tanzania (BoT) has assured the public and investors that the Tanzanian shilling and the overall financial system remain stable and resilient, despite temporary disruptions linked to the election-related unrest that saw brief internet interruptions and isolated cases of vandalized ATMs.

BoT Governor Emmanuel Tutuba said the local currency maintained its stability through- out the election period, reflect-ing the strength of Tanzania’s monetary and financial frame- work. He emphasised that daily banking operations, interbank settlements and digital transac-tions continued smoothly dur-ing the polls and in the days that followed.

“The shilling remains sta-ble,” he affirmed. “Transactions proceeded normally during the election period; there was no impact whatsoever.

” Mr Tutuba noted that the cen-tral bank continues to monitor the financial landscape around the clock through its integrated surveillance systems. He said that key financial infrastructure, such as the Tanzania Interbank Payment System (TIPS) and the East African Payment System (EAPS), remained fully func-tional throughout the period, ensuring business continuity and public confidence.

“The uninterrupted perfor-mance of these systems demon-strates the robustness and reli-ability of Tanzania’s financial architecture,” he said, adding that the BoT would maintain its proactive approach in managing liquidity and safeguarding mon-etary stability. Independent financial ana-lyst, Mr Christopher Makombe, said financial markets had remained calm and orderly fol- lowing the October 28 general elections, with the shilling hold-ing steady against the US dollar.

“This stability reflects investor confidence and prudent economic management by the central bank,” he observed. “The BoT has done well in maintain-ing monetary stability through sound liquidity management and carefully timed forex inter-ventions, which helped prevents peculative attacks on the shilling.

” He noted that despite the social tension witnessed during the election period, both domes-tic and foreign investors appear to have viewed the unrest as temporary rather than systemic. “Tanzania’s financial markets have limited exposure to short-term speculative capital, which often drives volatility in other economies.

Long-term inves-tors here focus more on fundamentals than on political noise, and that speaks volumes about the maturity of our market,” he said. .

By Juma Shabani Dar es Salaam. Traders in several parts of Dar es Salaam say they are operating cautiously and closing their businesses earlier than usual, citing fear and uncertainty following last month’s election-related violence.

Many who spoke to The Citizen this week said the continued presence of police patrols, both during the day and at night, has left them uneasy about the city’s security situation. “I’m trying to be more careful to avoid what happened during the October 29 election,” said Peter Aloyce, popularly known as Mtanza Mwenyenia, a small trader in Tabata.

“Closing my business early has now become part of my routine. I make sure I shut down before 10:00 pm to avoid any trouble,” he added.

In the same area, another trader, Jesca, widely known as Mama Winnie, said she has chosen to delay repairing her business structures that were damaged during the election-day chaos. “I’ve actually postponed fixing some of my stalls that were demolished that day,” she told The Citizen.

“It’s better to wait than to risk losing more money if the situation repeats itself.” In Buguruni, one of the areas that experienced the worst of the violence, a local restaurant owner said she had moved some of her valuables from her business premises as a precaution.

“I decided to remove things like my fridge, tables and chairs from the hut because it’s not very stable,” said the entrepreneur, who requested anonymity for security reasons. “I can’t afford to lose everything again.

” Youth who operate motorcycle taxis, commonly known as bodaboda, have also been forced to adjust their working hours. They say they have been among the hardest hit by the unrest.

“Most of us now try to get home early,” said Haris Katani, a bodaboda rider from Buguruni. “Young people have been the most affected by the protests, and in some areas, there’s even an informal rule to stay off the streets by 10:00 pm.

” President Samia Suluhu Hassan ordered the security organs to ensure life returns to normalcy after she was sworn in on November 3, 2025. Though only a few days have passed since the violent demonstrations that left property and infrastructure in ruins, fear still lingers. Many residents remain reluctant to speak openly or engage with the media, preferring instead to keep a low profile as calm slowly returns to the city.

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Dar es Salaam. Hospitals and startups are being urged to work together to develop national artificial intelligence (AI) healthcare strategies focused on data sharing and training health workers in digital skills.

African hospitals and health agencies are increasingly using AI tools to prioritise patients, predict disease outbreaks, and automate diagnostics. Rather than copying foreign systems, local innovators are adapting AI to meet regional needs, aiming to create inclusive, people-centred digital healthcare.

Experts recommend adopting the Dawn Directive as a continental AI literacy framework and investing in African AI startups and infrastructure to shape the continent’s innovation future. APAIC 2025 Chairperson and CEO Abdulwahid Ali Khamis said Tanzania’s health system has long faced underfunding, staff shortages, and poor infrastructure.

Yet a quiet transformation is underway that could make Africa a leader in digital health innovation. “The next generation of AI, known as agentic AI, goes beyond data analysis.

It can act, make decisions, and collaborate with humans in real time, serving as a smart partner for doctors, hospital managers, and public health officials,” he said. He added that Tanzania’s young population, expanding digital infrastructure, and growing pool of AI experts give the country an advantage.

African innovators are building AI-ready hospitals, smart labs, and connected community health systems. Mr Khamis invited governments, investors, educators, and development partners to join APAIC 2025 in Arusha and sign the Mombasa Declaration on Agentic AI.

He noted that adopting agentic AI will require investment in data infrastructure, ethical frameworks, and digital literacy, and highlighted hospitals already integrating AI to support, not replace, human expertise. .

By Katare Mbashiru Dodoma. President Samia Suluhu Hassan has offered a clear explanation of why she appointed Dr Mwigulu Nchemba as Tanzania’s new Prime Minister, citing his proven dedication to serving all citizens and his strong performance during the vetting process.

Speaking on Friday, November 14, 2025 moments after swearing him in at Chamwino State House, President Samia said the selection followed a thorough and demanding assessment. Dr Nchemba had been endorsed by Members of Parliament the previous day.

In her address, the President detailed why the Iramba West MP stood out among several considered candidates. The swearing-in ceremony was attended by senior government officials and retired national leaders.

“The competition was intense, but throughout the rigorous vetting process, you consistently demonstrated the qualities required for this position,” President Samia said, underscoring the depth of evaluation that guided her choice. She stressed that her decision was anchored in each candidate’s commitment to public service.

“You have a significant responsibility ahead as you work to deliver the promises outlined in the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) 20252030 manifesto,” she noted, calling attention to the government’s obligations to citizens. The President also reminded Dr Nchemba of the urgency of implementing the party’s commitments, which reflect the campaign pledges made to the nation.

“We must work with diligence and increased speed to ensure these commitments are fulfilled,” she emphasised. Dr Nchemba, who previously served as Minister of Finance and Planning, is expected to draw on his extensive government experience to address national priorities and ensure the government’s agenda responds effectively to the needs of Tanzanians.

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Dar es Salaam. The country’s upcountry bus sector is experiencing a sharp slowdown following the recent election-related chaos, with dwindling passenger numbers forcing operators to scale down services and threatening the financial stability of the industry.

Shabiby Bus Company manager, Mr Edward Magawa, told The Citizen that the company has been compelled to reduce the frequency of its services due to a significant decline in passengers. “For instance, during the morning service, we used to deploy eight buses, but we now send only four.

At night, we previously deployed six buses, but we are currently down to three,” he said. He said that routes such as Dar es SalaamDodoma, Mwanza, Arusha and Songea have recorded particularly low passenger turnout.

“While the flow of passengers on these routes remains low, we have not reduced the number of buses. On many routes, we sometimes carry only 25 passengers in a bus with a capacity of over 50,” he noted.

According to Mr Magawa, maintaining bus operations under such conditions has become costly, as revenue fails to meet expenses such as fuel, terminal fees, staff allowances and maintenance. “At this point, operating feels more like providing a public service than running a business because we are not making any returns.

If the situation persists, it will be difficult to service our loans on time,” he said. He also called on the authorities to reassure the public about safety, saying many passengers appear hesitant to travel due to fear.

“It would be better if relevant institutions issued an official statement on safety for both operators and passengers, so that people can regain confidence and resume travelling,” he added. Similarly, the manager of Happy Nation Company, Mr Mfaume Mfaume, described the current situation as a “low season”, saying companies are continuing to operate even with empty seats in order to maintain customer trust and follow timetables.

The Director General of the Land Transport Regulatory Authority (Latra), Mr Habibu Suluo, said that while passenger numbers initially fell after the election, they have started to recover. “Up until Monday this week (November 10), the number of passengers travelling upcountry stood at 62,313. When operations resumed on November 5, the system recorded around 34,000 passengers, compared to an average of 85,000 per day before,” he said.

Tanzania Bus Owners Association (Taboa) secretary, Mr Joseph Priscus, said the recovery remains slow, with buses operating at around 30 to 40 percent capacity–equivalent to about 20 to 25 passengers per trip. “At this rate, many operators are struggling to cover basic costs, especially fuel,” he said, adding that there is optimism that business will gradually stabilise as the situation normalises.

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Dodoma.President Samia Suluhu Hassan has announced that her Government will establish a special commission to investigate the unrest that erupted on the day of the General Election on October 29, 2025 in order to determine the root cause of the disturbances.

The unrest, which resulted in loss of life, injuries, and damage to both public and private infrastructure, also led to the suspension of various activities. President Samia made this declaration today, November 14, 2025 while addressing the Parliament of the United Republic of Tanzania as part of the inauguration of the 13th Parliament.

She expressed her deep sorrow over the events of that day and called upon Members of Parliament and invited guests gathered in the House to rise for a one-minute silence in honour of those who lost their lives. “Let us pray that God receives the souls of those who died in the unrest of October 29. I was personally deeply saddened by that incident, and I extend my condolences to all families who lost their loved ones.

May God grant them rest, and we pray for the swift recovery of the injured.” “For those who lost their property, we pray for strength and resilience.

The Government has taken the step of forming a commission to investigate what transpired so that we may understand the root cause of the problem. Its findings will guide our dialogue towards restoring understanding and peace,” President Samia said.

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