Category: The Citizen

Global sporting events have grown beyond entertainment; they’re economic powerhouses that encapsulate national growth, tourism, and international recognition. For Tanzania, now a sporting country with passionate fans and rising stars, the economic contribution of events such as the FIFA World Cup, Olympic Games, or World Athletics Championships is unprecedented.

From tourism revenue to sponsorship through brands, such events rock industries. The sporting industry also intersects with gambling, as fans utilize gambling websites to stay engaged in competitions.

This growing trend circles back to regional economies in terms of sponsorship and taxation. Global bookmaker offers free bets, promotions, andMelbet first deposit bonus to lure fans who want to combine passion with prediction, creating a parallel economy with global sport linkages.

In the case of Tanzania, therefore, sport, gambling, and tourism together form part of a wide ecosystem behind short-term and long-term gain. Tourism And International Exposure One of the most obvious economic benefits of global sports tournaments is tourism.

Even when Tanzania does not host a tournament, a large event has international visitors coming to regional centers since tourists tend to visit nearby destinations. Tanzanian safari tours, beaches in Zanzibar, and cultural festivals receive more bookings during global tournaments.

The connection between tourism and sports betting also applies. Visitors to international events are usually using mobile platforms to track odds and scores, supplementing the domestic operators.

This trend is observed in East Africa, where users prefer such easy-to-use tools from app bet to track their wagers in real time while watching live games on the go. Traveling and gaming create twin streams of economic activity — spending leisure time and participation in gaming markets.

Tourism also increases Tanzania’s image in the global sphere. Exposure through press coverage of African fans and cultural stories builds the country’s brand, attracting investments and strengthening its role as a destination for sport tourism.

Sponsorships And Corporate Partnerships Sponsorship from corporations is also a crucial element through which Tanzania benefits from foreign sports. Foreign companies realize the benefit of tapping into passionate fan bases from Africa.

Sponsorship deals give more exposure to local businesses, marketing, and event promotion employment, and deepen economic ties with multinationals. Tanzanian banks, breweries, and telecommunication companies commonly sponsor events surrounding global competitions.

Besides the revenue they get in terms of advertisement, the sponsorship also raises customer engagement by connecting brands to sporting energy. The spillover benefits then spill over into the hospitality, transport, and media sectors.

For the athletes, sponsorship creates opportunities for professional and financial advancement, opening doors that spill over into communities and inspire youngsters to engage in sports. Job Creation And Infrastructure Improvement While Tanzania still is not home to the largest international games, domestic games associated with international events provide jobs and stimulate infrastructure improvement.

Stadium renovations to expanded transport systems, the push to improve facilities is benefiting sport as well as overall economic activity. Jobs are not only found in construction.

Hotels, restaurants, security teams, and media all have increased demand during international sports events. Small vendors even profit by selling wares and services to the crowds gathering in viewing areas.

Such economic spin-offs give international sports events a multiplier effect many times larger than the sporting event itself. Tanzania’s Position In The Global Sports Economy Tanzania’s international sports positioning also extends, not merely through its participants but as a fan-driven market.

Participation in sports, at athletics, football, and boxing, has made the country internationally renowned, and follower culture adds to its economic linkage to international events. This table illustrates how strongly connected the effects are, to guarantee that global sporting events optimize several industries at a time.

Why Global Events Matter For Tanzania’s Future For Tanzania, global sporting events contribute positively in the short term, but the benefits go beyond that. It’s for long-term strategic development.

Tanzania positions itself with global sporting economic activities. Investing in sporting tourist activities, the development of sporting infrastructures, and the legalization of betting markets will make Tanzania thrive economically in the global sporting tournaments.

Among the main reasons such events are important to Tanzania’s growth are: Growing Tourism Revenue: Global events attract tourists who linger longer to explore Tanzanian destinations. Creating Jobs Across Sectors: From hospitality to retail, jobs are created in sectors across the board.

Creating International Partnerships: Sponsorships and partnerships give Tanzanian brands international market access. Facilitating Upgrades in Sports Infrastructure: Stadium, training facility, and transport development leave a legacy.

Tanzania’s passionate fan support promises consistent demand, and its natural sites offer an attractive extension for foreigners visiting nearby international tournaments. Sponsorship agreements secure foreign sponsors, and improved facilities and media coverage create legacies that last far beyond the events themselves.

From Stadiums To Safari: A Winning Combination For Tanzania, global sporting competitions are not merely about rivalry — they are growth accelerators. They boost tourism, attract sponsorships, generate jobs, and expand the digital economy of betting.

By combining the thrill of stadia with the thrill of safari explorations, Tanzania presents itself as a destination where sport, culture, and economy intersect. As the nation progresses, more integration of sports into its development agenda will ensure that every whistle, every race, and every match brings not only excitement but opportunity.

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Dar es Salaam. The National Examinations Council of Tanzania (NECTA) has released the 2025 Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) results, showing a slight improvement in performance compared to last year.

Out of 1,146,164 candidates who sat the exam in September 2025, a total of 937,581 pupils, which is equivalent to 81.80 percent, passed by attaining grades A, B, and C. In 2024, the pass rate stood at 80.87 percent, marking an increase of 0.

93 percentage points. Announcing the results in Dar es Salaam on November 5, NECTA Executive Secretary Prof Said Mohamed said the performance reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen primary education delivery.

“The overall pass rate has increased to 81.80 percent from 80.87 percent recorded in 2024. This shows a positive trend and improvement in learning outcomes at the basic education level,” he said. Of the successful candidates, 429,104 were boys (82.51 percent) and 508,477 were girls (81.21 percent).

The girls’ pass rate rose by 1.16 percentage points, while boys improved by 0.

66 percentage points. Prof Mohamed said the share of pupils scoring grades A and B increased to 36.90 percent, up by 1.

07 percentage points from 2024. “The improvement in performance, especially among girls, shows the effectiveness of ongoing initiatives aimed at enhancing inclusive and equitable access to quality education,” he added. Subject performance Kiswahili posted the highest pass rate at 87.57 percent, up by 0.

99 percentage points. The proportion of pupils scoring grades A and B in the subject rose to 59.65 percent from 53.46 percent last year.

Science and Technology recorded an 84.43 percent pass rate, with a slight decline in high grades to 48.14 percent from 48.83 percent in 2024. Civics and Ethics saw one of the strongest gains, with 86.37 percent of pupils passing–an increase of 6.69 percentage points.

Pupils scoring grades A and B rose to 56.68 percent from 46.97 percent last year. However, Social Studies and Vocational Skills recorded a sharp decline, dropping to 70.29 percent from 81.91 percent in 2024. The proportion of pupils earning grades A and B fell from 43.59 percent to 27.87 percent.

Mathematics posted a slight rise to 56.66 percent from 55.12 percent, although only 21.92 percent scored grades A or B. English Language performance improved to 50.11 percent, up by 6.

63 percentage points. Pupils scoring grades A and B rose to 20.95 percent from 15.25 percent.

School performance and compliance Out of 19,436 schools, 5,503 (28.32 percent) recorded an average of grades A and B, up from 24.54 percent in 2024. A majority–12,224 schools (62.89 percent)–averaged grade C. Only four schools (0.02 percent) were ranked grade E.

A total of 4,682 candidates (0.40 percent) had special needs. NECTA withheld results for 245 pupils who faced issues such as illness, allowing them to re-sit in 2026. Results for 38 candidates were nullified–31 for cheating and seven for using abusive language.

Prof Mohamed noted that, in adherence to data protection laws, results will not display pupils’ names. “Candidates should use their examination numbers to access their results,” he said.

He commended education stakeholders for ensuring smooth examination administration and said the results will guide selection of pupils joining Form One in 2026. .

Dar es Salaam. As Young Africans (Yanga SC) fine-tune preparations for the CAF Champions’ League group stage, the Tanzanian champions have been dealt a major setback with the confirmed absence of star striker Clement Mzize, who is set to miss up to ten weeks following knee surgery.

The timing of the injury could hardly be worse for Yanga, who are relocating their international base to the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar for their group stage campaign. Yanga will face against North African giants Al Ahly (Egypt), AS FAR Rabat (Morocco), and JS Kabylie (Algeria) in Group B.

Yanga’s Media and Communications Officer, Ally Kamwe, confirmed that Mzize underwent a successful operation, but the recovery process will keep him out for between eight and 10 weeks. “After extensive consultations between our medical team, the technical bench, and the player himself, it was decided that surgery was necessary,” said Kamwe.

“Mzize had been experiencing recurring pain in his knee during training, and we concluded that an operation was the best option. He will now be out for between eight and ten weeks.

” The forward’s injury comes at a crucial time, with Yanga set to begin their continental campaign against AS FAR Rabat later this month and facing key domestic fixtures, including the Kariakoo Derby against arch-rivals Simba SC on December 13. Mzize will also miss the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals in Morocco, where he had been tipped to lead the attack for Tanzania’s Taifa Stars. His absence is expected to test both Yanga’s squad depth and the adaptability of Coach Pedro Gonaalves, who must now find a reliable replacement up front.

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Oil prices dipped on Wednesday amid a wider slump in financial markets and a strong U.S.

dollar, while investors assessed the supply outlook. Brent crude futures edged lower by 6 cents, or 0.

1 percent to $64.38 a barrel by 0408 GMT, having touched a near two-week low in the prior session. U.

S. West Texas Intermediate crude was down 10 cents, or 0.

17 percent, at $60.46. The risk-off tone across markets saw investors exit energy markets, ANZ analysts wrote in a Wednesday client note. Asian stocks dived on Wednesday and market volatility reached levels not seen since April after an overnight tech-led selloff on Wall Street put the spotlight on stretched valuations.

The U.S.

dollar index – which measures the currency against the euro and sterling, along with the yen and three other peers – was steady at a three-month high, buoyed by division among the Federal Reserve board, indicating low odds for an interest rate cut at the next policy meeting in December. A stronger greenback makes dollar-denominated oil more expensive for holders of other currencies, which can impact demand.

A U.S.

interest rate cut typically boosts demand. “Crude oil is trading lower as risk sentiment shifted sharply negative, boosting the safe haven U.

S. dollar, both of which weighed on the crude oil price,” IG market analyst Tony Sycamore said in a note.

Prices were also under pressure as the American Petroleum Institute said U.S.

crude stockpiles rose in the week ended October 31, sources said citing the API figures on Tuesday. Supply-side concern continued to weigh on prices.

The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries and allied producers, known as OPEC+, agreed on Sunday to increase output by 137,000 barrels per day in December. The group decided to pause further increases in the first quarter of 2026. However, the pause was “unlikely to offer meaningful support to November and December prices,” LSEG analysts said in a note.

OPEC itself only added 30,000 bpd to its output in October versus 330,000 bpd in month prior as previously agreed OPEC+ increases were offset by declines in Nigeria, Libya and Venezuela. .

Dar es Salaam. The Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) has officially announced the termination of its contract with Taifa Stars head coach Hemed Suleiman, popularly known as Morocco.

According to a statement released on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, the decision was reached through a mutual agreement between the two parties. The federation expressed its appreciation for his service and confirmed that both sides had amicably agreed to part ways.

In a swift move to ensure continuity, TFF has appointed Singida Black Stars head coach Miguel Gamondi as the interim head coach of the national team. The Argentine tactician will take charge of the Taifa Stars as they prepare for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) finals, scheduled to take place in Morocco later this year.

TFF’s statement confirmed that discussions had already been held between the federation and Singida Black Stars management regarding Gamondi’s new temporary role. “Following the decision, TFF has appointed Singida Black Stars head coach Miguel Gamondi to serve as the interim head coach of Taifa Stars,” the statement reads in part.

“Discussions have been held between TFF and Singida Black Stars about the coach taking up his new responsibilities.” Gamondi’s appointment is seen as a strategic move to maintain stability within the national team setup as preparations for AFCON intensify.

The experienced coach, who has previously managed clubs across Africa, is expected to bring his technical expertise and leadership to guide Tanzania on the continental stage. Coach Morocco’s departure marks the end of a tenure that saw him steer the Taifa Stars through several competitive fixtures, including AFCON qualification matches and World Cup qualifiers.

With AFCON 2025 around the corner, the transition to a new technical leadership comes at a crucial time for the national team. All eyes will now be on Gamondi as he takes charge of the squad heading into one of Africa’s most prestigious football tournaments.

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Shinyanga. Former Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) Shinyanga Regional Chairman Hamis Mgeja passed away on 3 November 2025, leaving behind a legacy as a friend, a brother, a person of strong conviction and a veteran in politics.

Leaders and residents have been paying tribute to Mgeja, remembering him as a man who stood firm in his beliefs and worked tirelessly for his community. Speaking to on 4 November, Ezekiel Maige recalled Mgeja’s unwavering stance during challenging times.

“I remember him for his steadfastness in what he believed. I witnessed this personally during a period of political turmoil.

He stood firmly with me,” Maige said. He added, “He always said he would stand with you, no matter the circumstances.

I experienced this when I faced political challenges and false accusations. I had the chance to speak with him, and he listened carefully, seeking the truth.

He spoke honestly at public meetings in the villages of Nundu and Segese in Kahama District.” Simiyu Regional Commissioner Anamringi Macha described Mgeja as “a rock and a teacher in politics.

” In a message shared on a WhatsApp group, Macha said, “He participated in numerous political meetings and was among those who made significant contributions to strengthening democracy and promoting citizen participation in nation-building.” Residents also remembered Mgeja for his approachable nature.

Shinyanga resident Mary Maua said, “I will remember him for his humour and his cooperation with citizens on social and community matters. He always put people first.

” Mgeja’s passing marks the loss of a political stalwart whose commitment to his beliefs and his people left a lasting impression across Shinyanga and beyond. .

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Sunday the U.S. military could deploy troops to Nigeria or carry out air strikes to stop what he called the killing of large numbers of Christians in the West African country. Asked if he envisioned troops on the ground or air strikes in Nigeria, Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One: “Could be.

I mean, other things. I envisage a lot of things.

They’re killing record numbers of Christians in Nigeria They’re killing the Christians and killing them in very large numbers. We’re not going to allow that to happen.

” Trump made the comment on Sunday evening as he headed back to Washington after a weekend at his vacation home in Florida. Trump threatened on Saturday to take military action against Nigeria if Africa’s most populous country failed to crack down on the killing of Christians.

The U.S. president’s threat of military action came a day after his administration added Nigeria back to a “Countries of Particular Concern” list of nations that the U.S. says have violated religious freedoms. Other nations on the list include China, Myanmar, North Korea, Russia and Pakistan.

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Dar es Salaam. Tanzania, long revered across Africa as the Island of Peace and a sanctuary for refugees, has for the first time since the return of multiparty politics in the early 1990s experienced streets echoing with gunfire.

The unrest broke out on October 29, 2025, during the General Election, when crowds in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Mbeya and Mwanza poured into the streets in protest. The mobs vandalised public and private property, torching polling stations, police posts, Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) terminals, political party offices, fuel stations, shops and bars.

In Dar es Salaam, the day began calmly. From as early as 6:00am, voters queued peacefully at polling centres, determined to choose the President, Members of Parliament and ward councillors for the next five years.

However, at around 10:00am, the situation started to change, with reports reaching The Citizen suggesting that a group of demonstrators had marched from Kimara Butcher towards Magomeni via Ubungo, along Morogoro Road. Similar scenes quickly unfolded across the city.

Major routes, including Mandela, Bagamoyo and Morogoro roads, were blocked with burning tyres and debris. Police fired tear gas in attempts to disperse the crowds, but the situation escalated rapidly.

By evening, Inspector General of Police Camillus Wambura announced a 6pm curfew, urging citizens to remain indoors while security agencies restored order. “We are taking all necessary measures to ensure peace returns,” he said.

“Our goal is not confrontation, but restoration of calm.” By dawn on October 30, Dar es Salaam resembled a security fortress.

Key roads were manned by joint patrols of the Tanzania People’s Defence Force (TPDF) and police. Checkpoints were mounted, with motorists stopping for inspection and pedestrians ordered to walk with hands raised when approaching security checkpoints.

Chief of Defence Forces Gen Jacob Mkunda assured the nation that the military would remain deployed until calm was fully restored. Residents in previously tense neighbourhoods including Magomeni, Manzese, Tabata, Sinza, Kariakoo and Kinondoni were escorted to safety.

Residents interviewed by The Citizen described fear, hunger and uncertainty as movement and communication restrictions took effect. Ruiza Kimario, a middleman based in Sinza, said the restrictions crippled daily earners, noting that Tanzanians survive on hand-to-mouth income and that “life becomes almost impossible when movement and communication are cut.

” Aurelia Kaizirege said most Tanzanians have no savings, so disruptions leave them with nothing to fall back on. Nicholus Senzo from Tandale recalled hearing gunfire, saying that for two days it was unsafe to cross the street to buy food.

Joyce Mbusha said limited shops forced people into crowded spaces despite police warnings, because “people needed food.” At Kimara, Paulina Patrick noted widespread misinformation due to restricted internet access, including a fake message claiming Dawasa water had been poisoned.

Later, officials clarified on television that it was false. Dawasa associate manager Everlast Lyaro confirmed the message was fabricated and spread maliciously.

Johanness Joseph, a software systems developer in Kigamboni, said the internet blackout crippled his work, stressing that “in today’s world, the internet is like electricity.” In Sinza, Amina Daudi appealed for a return to national values, reminding citizens that Tanzania has held six peaceful elections previously, and urging the country not to imitate violence seen elsewhere.

On Sunday, Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila assured residents that peace was being restored, praising security forces and encouraging citizens to resume normal activities while forces remained vigilant. Political analysts called for national unity and dialogue.

Prof Ali Makame Ussi of the State University of Zanzibar warned that turning Tanzania into a battlefield would undermine the very foundations of the nation. From the University of Dar es Salaam, Dr Richard Mbunda said the unrest showed the country drifting from its spirit of unity, urging dialogue.

Dr Onesmo Kyauke echoed this view, calling for patriotism and solidarity. Government Spokesperson Gerson Msigwa later announced a gradual resumption of normal activities beginning Tuesday, November 4, 2025, urging public adherence to security directives.

In her inauguration speech, President Samia Suluhu Hassan directed security organs to expedite the restoration of normal life nationwide. At the Vatican, Pope Leo called for prayers for Tanzania, urging all parties to avoid violence and embrace dialogue.

Earlier, INEC Chairperson Jacobs Mwambegele declared President Hassan the winner of the 2025 presidential election with almost 98 percent of the vote. Lessons from Zambia Speaking during President Hassan’s swearing-in ceremony in Dodoma, President of Zambia, Mr Hakainde Hichilema urged Tanzanians to maintain their peaceful coexistence.

“It is important for the United Republic of Tanzania to move forward as one country,” he said. He said it was important to note that the peace, security, stability of Tanzania is also the security of several other countries in the region.

He said Tanzania and its people know it too well that in the struggle for independence for Southern African region countries, it was actually Tanzania and Zambia that anchored that struggle by hosting liberation movements. “During that time, the leaders before us were well aware that if neighbours were not independent, we were all affected.

If we understood it then, we understand it more now,” he said. As member states of the Southern African Development Community (Sadc), said Mr Hichilema, they have been working together to support Mozambique in the Cabo Delgado Province as well as supporting the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in its Eastern part.

“We know the value of peace, security and stability.I want to appeal to the people of Tanzania that what you have enjoyed over years, decades, must be protected at all costs.

You cannot try or experiment the opposite,” he said. He said once peace get lost, it becomes difficult to regain it properly.

“It will linger on and on and destabilizing children in schools and families, essentially taking away the time, the resources and all the efforts meant for development,” said President Hichilema. When challenges with problems and complaints, President Hichilema said, dialogue must be the only option.

He said he personally leads a political party in Zambia that was in opposition for 23 years. He had been the leader of his party for 15 out of the 23 years that it [the party] was in opposition.

He said during that period, his party lost many elections that compelled some members to demand that they go to the streets, especially when they felt that they had not been properly treated during the elections. “I was the first one to say no one should go to the streets.

Those who supported us genuinely complained. In two elections, I took the responsivity that I cannot send men and women who are citizens of Zambia in the streets so they can damage property and kill somebody,” he said.

The focus, he said, was on the use of democratic processes which they finally did and their party is now in the government. “We inherited a country that is peaceful and it is our duty to keep our country peaceful and hand it over to those who will come after us in peace,” he said.

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Arusha. Arusha Regional Commissioner Amos Makalla has assured residents and visitors, including tourists, that the region is calm and safe, with essential services continuing without interruption.

Speaking on Tuesday, 4 November 2025, after a meeting of the Regional Security and Safety Committee, Makalla said a special team is inspecting all areas affected by the unrest that began on 29 October. “Arusha residents are going about their daily activities, and the region remains calm and secure.

As a regional administration, we started reopening some shops on 1 November, and today all activities are back to normal,” he said. He added that Arusha, being both a commercial hub and a tourist destination, will continue to ensure visitors are safe and able to access basic services.

“Security agencies are maintaining their core duties, including safeguarding our borders,” Makalla said. Transport services resume On transport, the RC assured operators that with security restored, travel can resume safely.

Fuel stations in the region have reopened, ensuring continuous supply to motorists. “All fuel stations are open.

We have directed suppliers and traders in Arusha to continue delivering fuel in large quantities to guarantee availability at all times,” he said. Makalla urged bus operators from other regions to resume their services, assuring them that roads are safe.

“If you notice police presence, it is for your safety,” he said. He also directed local government leaders and village chairpersons to continue maintaining order and to report any disturbances, working in coordination with security agencies.

Cleanliness and sanitation Regarding environmental cleanliness, Makalla instructed council directors under the supervision of the Regional Administrative Secretary to manage sanitation services effectively. All waste in residential and market areas must be cleared within two days.

“Our town must be clean. I have instructed the City Director and other council directors to engage sanitation companies to ensure that within two days all areas are cleared.

Accumulated waste can lead to disease outbreaks,” he said. On damage caused during the unrest, Makalla said a comprehensive assessment is underway.

“It is difficult to pinpoint all affected areas immediately, but our team is conducting a full survey. Restoring peace is our first priority, and residents’ safety comes first,” he said.

Suspects in custody On reports of arrests linked to the unrest, Makalla said the matter will be addressed by the Arusha Regional Police Commander. .

Tanzania is navigating an unprecedented moment. As we reflect on the 2025 elections, the events that unfolded, and the lives that were changed, we find ourselves piecing together a difficult chapter in our nation’s history.

In every election cycle, the media has stood at the forefront, informing the public, reinforcing checks and balances, safeguarding accountability, and educating citizens on their role in the democratic process. Yet this time, the unfolding events left many astonished, grieving, and still asking, “Where was the media?” The Election Day and post-election unrest led to the tragic loss of life and destruction of property.

In such critical times, the public rightly expects timely reporting and guidance on safety measures. However, during those moments, Tanzanian media were unable to fully perform their foundational duty of informing the nation when it was needed most.

Mwananchi Communications Limited, through Mwananchi, The Citizen, and Mwanaspoti, has long been a trusted pillar for credible information. Our audiences look to us for clarity, truth, and context.

When they could not find us, many were left with uncertainty and a sense of abandonment. We understand those feelings.

It is important, however, to recognise the environment within which the media operates. Journalism is a regulated profession, governed by laws and frameworks that enable us to function responsibly and legally.

On October 29, 2025, and in the tense days that followed, a nationwide internet shutdown rendered local media invisible online. This key communication system collapsed.

Access to information was disrupted. Like millions of other Tanzanians and businesses across the country, we were cut off from the tools essential to our operations.

We did not turn our backs on the nation. We just did not have the means to reach you.

Our commitment to public service remains unwavering. We will continue to uphold the highest journalistic standards, fulfilling our role with integrity, courage, and respect for the legal frameworks that govern the profession.

We mourn with the families who lost loved ones. We extend our deepest condolences to all who were affected by the unrest.

It is time to heal and pick up the pieces. We understand how difficult this moment is, and we stand with every Tanzanian through this national ordeal.

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