Category: The Citizen

Dar es Salaam. Prof Ibrahim Lipumba has finally accepted his removal as Civic United Front (CUF) chairman, leaving five directives for the new leader, Mr Mirambo Yusuf, including leading efforts to secure a transitional government.

In addition, he emphasised the need for a new Constitution derived from citizens’ views, the establishment of an Independent Electoral Commission, and unity among members in strengthening the institution. He also urged that the party’s Secretary General, Mr Hamad Masoud, be removed for lacking the required qualifications, to restore confidence within a party long beset by leadership disputes.

Profr Lipumba, who held the position for 27 years, made the remarks 42 days (one month and 12 days) after being removed from office following directives issued by the Registrar of Political Parties (RPPs). The Registrar’s decision, issued on February 13, 2026, to nullify the party’s general election held on December 18 and 19 last year, which also resulted in the victory of Prof Lipumba and his colleagues, was based on the argument that they did not obtain more than half of the valid votes cast by delegates at the general assembly.

According to those directives, which created divisions within the party between supporters and opponents, the electoral process was supposed to be repeated to comply with procedures, regulations, and the party constitution, but that step was not taken. Consequently, on February 20 and 21 this year, an official meeting was convened to remove Prof Lipumba, which he did not attend.

His allies claimed they were heading to court to challenge the RPP’s decision because they had not been allowed to defend themselves. Throughout that entire period, Prof Lipumba remained silent until Mr Mirambo was elected and assumed responsibilities.

After 42 days, he has now appeared publicly and formally accepted his removal. Speaking to journalists at the party’s headquarters in Dar es Salaam on Sunday, March 29, 2026, Prof Lipumba said that despite irregularities in the process of his removal, he has no reservations about the new leadership.

“Although the process of removing me was questionable, personally, in constitutional and administrative terms, I have no doubts about the new chairman and elected leaders, nor have I said that I was treated unfairly. But I can say that if someone denies a donkey peas, you can complete the rest yourself,” Prof Lipumba, when handing over office to Mr Mirambo.

He said the procedures for convening the general meeting were not properly followed and that even in 2024, he had not intended to contest the position again; therefore, removing him has reduced his burden. However, he maintained that the process was flawed, as one cannot legitimise the December 2024 election and then nullify that of February 2026. He added that his removal followed a speech on January 27, 2026, in which the party proposed a transitional government to pave the way for another national election.

“That speech angered certain influential individuals, who then devised a strategy to remove me quickly without following proper procedures,” he said. Regarding his advice, Prof Lipumba called on the new leadership to ensure the country obtains a new Constitution derived from citizens’ views, together with the establishment of an Independent Electoral Commission.

He also stressed the need to discuss the party’s position on forming a transitional government, claiming that the 2025 General Election was neither free nor fair. He urged the new chairman to examine the legitimacy of the party’s Secretary General, Mr Masoud, claiming that he failed to perform essential duties when he was nominated to run for the Zanzibar presidency.

“He denied us the opportunity to have a presidential candidate in Zanzibar last year; we cannot tell citizens that this is the person who will lead us to success, we will destroy ourselves. I am saying this publicly so that I can be clearly understood, but that is the truth: you cannot be nominated as a presidential candidate and fail to return nomination forms; therefore, if we leave him in that position, we are finished,” he said.

However, Mr Masoud responded to Prof Lipumba’s claims, saying they were expressions of anger directed at him because he knows him thoroughly and fears that if he holds the position, he may expose many of his alleged wrongdoings. “Prof Lipumba knows that I know him thoroughly and many of his secrets; therefore, he has great fear after I was appointed to hold this position because he believes I will expose them.

I know many things–first, I found the party in an intensive care unit requiring close supervision,” he responded. For his part, the new chairman commended Prof Lipumba for his significant contribution to the party throughout the entire 27-year period.

He said the party recognises his contribution and will continue to allow him to provide advice and share his views. Mr Mirambo added that they have received all the advice provided and that it will be submitted to legitimate party meetings for discussion and decision-making.

“We will discuss them in accordance with party procedures, and decisions will depend on timing and the direction of members,” he said. He also urged members to end conflicts and unite to achieve the party’s objective of attaining state power.

On the other hand, CUF Leadership Council member Mr Daud Hassani said the appointment of the Secretary General was conducted in accordance with party procedures, whereby the chairman proposed names, and the Council approved them by a vote. He said the chairman and his team trust Mr Masoud; they consulted and presented his name to the Council, which then elected him.

Mr Hassan stressed that Prof Lipumba’s argument lacks substance, and what he expressed is merely an opinion like that of any ordinary member. Furthermore, Mr Hassani said Prof Lipumba’s claim that he has no confidence in him and accusations of wrongdoing are denied because the Council has no evidence of those allegations, while urging him to remain calm because every era has its own chapter.

Mr Mirambo selected Mr Masoud because he can work effectively with him. “Prof Lipumba is an ordinary member; what he is saying shows a failure to respect the authority of the Council that elected Mr Masoud.

He wants to reclaim his power, but we will not allow it. The Council is a major organ that must be respected once it makes decisions,” he said.

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Dar es Salaam. Compliance with public procurement laws in Tanzania has risen to 79 percent, signalling progress in reforms, but widespread violations and systemic weaknesses continue to undermine accountability and value for money, a new report shows.

The latest Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) report, presented to President Samia Suluhu Hassan alongside those of the Controller and Auditor General (CAG) and the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB) on Monday, March 30, 2026, paints a mixed picture of gains and persistent challenges. Presenting the report, PPRA Director General Denis Simba said compliance improved from 76 percent in 2023/24 to 79 percent in 2024/25, continuing an upward trend from 63.5 percent in 2021/22. “In the 2024/25 financial year, compliance with procurement laws increased from 76 percent to 79 percent,” he said, attributing the gains to enforcement of the 2023 procurement law and expansion of the National e-Procurement System (NEST).

The digital system has become a key driver of efficiency. During the year under review, new modules–including electronic contract management and an appeals system–were introduced, while 6,921 grassroots institutions such as schools and health facilities were integrated into the platform.

“The use of NEST has improved efficiency by reducing the time required to complete tendering processes,” Mr Simba said. Procurement activity also expanded sharply, with the number of tenders advertised rising by 72 percent from 53,221 to 99,823, while bidder participation nearly doubled, reflecting growing competition.

The report estimates that institutions saved about Sh13.3 billion in operational costs due to reduced reliance on paper-based processes, alongside environmental gains from lower carbon emissions. NEST has also been integrated with 21 government systems, improving real-time data sharing and oversight.

However, despite these improvements, the report highlights serious compliance gaps. A total of 756 out of 943 procuring entities failed to allocate the mandatory 30 percent of procurement budgets to special groups, including youth, women, the elderly and persons with disabilities.

Other irregularities include procurement conducted outside official systems, tender awards that did not follow evaluation criteria, and weak contract management leading to delays, abandoned projects and payments for unexecuted work. “In some cases, payments were made for work that had not been executed,” Mr Simba said.

Value-for-money audits further revealed uneven performance, with a number of contracts failing to deliver expected results, raising concerns about the efficiency of public spending. In response, PPRA has introduced corrective measures, including real-time monitoring dashboards and system upgrades incorporating data analytics and artificial intelligence to detect irregularities.

“We have rolled out real-time monitoring systems to strengthen compliance and oversight,” he said. The authority is also moving to enforce full adoption of NEST by linking it with government payment systems to prevent off-platform transactions.

Mr Simba said the reforms aim to strengthen transparency, accountability and efficiency in the use of public funds, noting that procurement remains central to service delivery and national development. .

Dar es Salaam. As Tanzania gears up for major developmental milestones under the National Vision 2050, leading lawyers are set to meet to discuss the plan’s implementation and the vital role of legal professionals in promoting ethics, human rights, and accountability.

The Tanganyika Law Society (TLS) will hold its annual conference at the Arusha International Conference Centre (AICC) from 27 April to 2 May 2026. The theme for this year’s meeting is “Implementing National Vision 2050: TLS’s Role in Strengthening Professional Ethics, Good Governance, Human Rights, and the Rule of Law to Promote Justice and Accountability”. Chief Justice George Masaju will officiate the opening session.

TLS President Boniface Mwabukusi said the conference will also launch a five-year strategic plan aligned with the National Vision 2050, emphasising integrity, good governance and accountability. “The conference calls on every lawyer to lead with integrity and remain a strong safeguard of the rule of law,” he said.

“It will examine how TLS can implement Article Four of its mandate, including advising the government and assisting citizens.” Mwabukusi said that the event will explore lawyers’ role in upholding workplace ethics, human rights, and accountability to build a modern and equitable society.

A highlight will be a forum for senior lawyers to discuss institutional responsibility and how the profession can contribute to Vision 2050 beyond courtrooms. He outlined the conference schedule, noting that on 29 April, the Multi-Dimension Forum Beyond Legal Practice 2026 will focus on lawyers’ lives outside the courtroom, including financial management, nutrition, and work-life balance.

This will be followed on 30 April by the Senior Lawyers Forum 2026, under the theme “From Experience to Excellence”, where senior practitioners will provide guidance on the future of justice delivery in Tanzania and discuss how TLS can effectively fulfil its statutory duties. Mwabukusi said influential legal experts will lead discussions and provide practical opportunities for TLS to implement Article Four in support of citizens.

“We have organised a week of essential continuing legal education (CLE) alongside opportunities for networking and knowledge exchange,” he said, inviting more than 3,000 members to join, learn, and lay the foundations for sustained legal excellence for generations to come. .

Dar es Salaam. For the first time in Tanzania’s history, President Samia Suluhu Hassan received three critical government reports simultaneously, covering financial audits, anti-corruption efforts, and public procurement–a move hailed as a strong signal of the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability.

Addressing officials at State House in Dar es Salaam, President Hassan said the joint reception sends a clear message about the government’s focus on transparency. “I am honoured to receive reports from the Controller and Auditor General, the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau, and the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority at the same time.

This demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that every shilling of public money is used responsibly,” she said. Breaking with tradition, she explained the rationale for receiving all three reports together.

“Previously, we received two reports at a time, but this year I decided to include the PPRA report alongside CAG and PCCB. Public procurement consumes a large share of government funds, so it is essential for transparency and accountability that these reports are reviewed collectively,” she said.

President Hassan also highlighted the public’s right to information. “Tanzanians must know how government funds are spent.

These institutions help protect taxpayers’ money, improve service delivery, and strengthen trust in government,” she said. She outlined the complementary roles of the three bodies: CAG audits the use of public resources, PCCB prevents and combats corruption, and PPRA supervises procurement to ensure value for money.

“Together, they form the backbone of good governance and accountability,” she added. On the reports themselves, she noted progress in financial management, citing an increase in clean audit certificates, while PCCB has tracked funds saved and anti-corruption measures implemented.

She also praised PPRA’s NEST system for enhancing procurement transparency, urging continued compliance and the “name and shame” approach to improve performance. “Accountability is not optional.

It is the responsibility of every public leader and citizen. Where negligence or misconduct is found, the government will take decisive action,” she said.

President Hassan formally received the reports and confirmed that the CAG report will be tabled in Parliament under Article 143(4) of the Constitution, with recommendations from all three institutions guiding stronger oversight and improved public service delivery. .

Dar es Salaam. At first glance, some areas of Dar es Salaam appear normal for daily activities.

But beneath the bustle lies a hidden danger that could cause serious harm if safety rules are ignored. Mbagala Zakheim, Gongo la Mboto and New Station to Pugu, in Temeke and Ilala districts, are densely populated and host vibrant economic activity.

Small-scale traders operate daily, attracting large numbers of customers seeking affordable goods. Food vendors, mechanics and other informal businesses thrive here.

However, beneath the surface and above these areas are sensitive infrastructures with significant risks. Pipeline and power hazards The Tazama oil pipeline jointly operated by Tanzania and Zambia runs underground, transporting oil from Dar es Salaam to Ndola in Zambia.

Built in 1968, the pipeline spans over 1,700 kilometres with a 24-inch diameter, pumping stations and storage depots. While vital for energy security and reducing transport costs, any damage or interference can trigger a major disaster.

Above ground, high-voltage power lines of the National Grid run through the same areas. The combination of underground oil pipelines and overhead electricity increases the danger: a leak or cable fault can result in severe injuries, fatalities and property loss.

Despite warning signs, many citizens continue their activities in these areas, prioritising income over safety. Life on the pipeline A food vendor selling buns and ginger tea in Mbagala Zakheim, Ms Asha Munira, operates directly above the Tazama pipeline, with high-voltage cables overhead.

She knows the risks but has no alternative location. “That is where my livelihood is.

The area has many customers and I earn daily. Even though we know about the pipe and power lines, what can we do?” she says.

Nearby, fruit vendor Juma Sedeki moves under tall pylons with fruit-laden carts. “Hunger does not wait.

I serve customers morning, afternoon and night. Human interaction is high, so I keep going,” he says.

Mama Subira, who runs a local brew bar, shares a similar view. “The danger is real, but where would I go? Everywhere is full.

Here, I earn a living and educate my three children,” she says. A bodaboda driver at Gongo la Mboto New Station, Mr Abdul Razaki, says: “This area is busy.

People come for goods and transport. I haven’t seen any dangerous incident.

Even if danger occurs, it’s God’s plan. Death comes in many ways–road accidents, fire, or air accidents.

Everyone has a destiny.” Other traders, including fishmonger Abdallah Sebo and hall owner Richard Steven, admit awareness of the risk but continue operating due to the lack of alternatives.

A new trader, Ms Mariam Amis, says she was unaware of the hazard. “I bought this stall and haven’t been educated about the danger,” she says.

Local leadership perspective Mpakani Local Government Chairperson Jabiri Mohamed says authorities recognise the risk but struggle to remove people who rely on the area for income. “We provide education so citizens know the danger, but evicting them could cause panic,” he says.

Gongo la Mboto Chairperson Seleman Mwaruko stresses that traders on the Tazama pipeline reserve are encroachers. “The law is clear: 15 metres on each side of the pipe is prohibited for any activity.

Education continues, but defiance remains,” he says. Encroachment Tazama Tanzania Regional Operations Manager Saimon Salu says Zakheim, Gongo la Mboto New Station and Pugu fall within the pipeline reserve.

“What is happening is encroachment. Urban growth has made enforcement harder,” he says.

Despite education campaigns, some local leaders and politicians have pressured for temporary access roads across the reserve. “We once faced conflicts with councillors over activities in the pipeline area.

They remove activities today and they return tomorrow,” he says. Mr Salu warns of the risks.

“The pipeline operates at high pressure–over five times that of a car tyre. A burst could cause many deaths and destroy property.

Oil may spill into homes and economic loss is significant,” he says. He adds that encroachment has increased daily, with some areas even hosting markets.

“We have not conducted a full census of encroachers, but their numbers grow as others operate without disturbance,” he says. Government’s response Energy Ministry Permanent Secretary James Mataragio says inspections will identify the situation and appropriate steps will follow.

“Tazama inspectors will assess the areas and recommend solutions,” he says. Dar es Salaam Regional Administrative Secretary (RAS) Abdul Mhite confirmed he is aware and will follow up to address the challenge.

Other local leaders have said they are preparing alternative locations for traders. Temeke District Commissioner Sixtus Mapunda says plans are underway to build multi-storey markets in Mbagala to relocate traders safely.

Dar es Salaam City Mayor Nurdin Bilal “Shetta” also said authorities are identifying suitable sites to ensure safety. .

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania has retained its B+ credit rating with a stable outlook, signalling an economy that is growing steadily with manageable debt levels, but still constrained by structural weaknesses that limit faster progress, analysts say.

Fitch Ratings on Friday affirmed Tanzania’s Long-Term Foreign-Currency (LTFC) Issuer Default Rating (IDR) at ‘B+’ with a stable outlook. The rating reflects a balance between ongoing reforms and persistent vulnerabilities, suggesting that the country’s credit position is unlikely to shift significantly in the near term unless deeper changes are implemented.

Economic experts interpret the outcome as a sign of stability rather than stagnation, pointing to continued growth momentum alongside the need for stronger fiscal and institutional reforms. A senior lecturer at the University of Dar es Salaam Business School, Dr Tobias Swai, said the stable outlook provides cautious optimism, indicating that the country is on a trajectory that could lead to an upgrade if reforms are sustained.

He cited the implementation of Vision 2050 and the ongoing Five-Year Development Plan as key drivers expected to strengthen the country’s economic foundation. “Recent policy measures, including enforcing the use of the Tanzanian shilling in domestic transactions and implementing tax reforms, are helping to stabilise the economy and improve fiscal performance,” he said, adding that continued progress could positively influence future ratings.

Tanzania’s rating reflects its relatively strong real GDP growth and low inflation, underpinned by reforms and access to external financing under the current International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme. The rating is constrained by weak governance and low, albeit improving, government revenue relative to ‘B’ category peers and a weak macroeconomic policy framework that leads to distortions in the foreign exchange (FX) market.

Independent financial analyst Mr Christopher Makombe described the overall rating as reflective of an economy performing relatively well, but still facing structural constraints. He pointed to strong economic growth, controlled inflation and improving fiscal discipline as key strengths, supported by continued engagement with the International Monetary Fund, which helps anchor reform efforts and reassure investors.

“This engagement reassures investors that reforms will remain on track,” he said However, he cautioned that challenges such as low domestic revenue mobilisation, governance concerns and limited foreign exchange reserves continue to weigh on the country’s credit profile. According to Fitch projections, Tanzania’s economy is expected to grow by around six percent in 2026 and 2027, outperforming many countries within the same rating category.

Growth is likely to be driven by agriculture, mining and major infrastructure investments, including the Standard Gauge Railway and the East African Crude Oil Pipeline. Inflation is projected to remain relatively low, supporting macroeconomic stability.

On the fiscal front, the government is expected to maintain a moderate budget deficit of about three per cent of gross domestic product (GDP), while public debt is projected to decline gradually from around 50 percent to 47 percent of GDP over the medium term. Revenue collection has shown signs of improvement, indicating progress in domestic resource mobilisation, although it remains below levels seen in comparable economies.

Despite these gains, analysts say Tanzania’s low revenue base continues to limit its ability to finance development independently, increasing reliance on borrowing and external support. Concerns around governance, institutional effectiveness and policy consistency also remain critical factors influencing investor confidence.

In addition, foreign exchange reserves, currently covering about two and a half months of imports, leave the economy exposed to external shocks, including rising global fuel and fertiliser prices or fluctuations in tourism. .

Dar es Salaam. For the first time in Tanzania’s history, President Samia Suluhu Hassan received three critical government reports simultaneously, covering financial audits, anti-corruption efforts, and public procurement–a move hailed as a strong signal of the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability.

Addressing officials at State House in Dar es Salaam, President Hassan said the joint reception sends a clear message about the government’s focus on transparency. “I am honoured to receive reports from the Controller and Auditor General, the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau, and the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority at the same time.

This demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that every shilling of public money is used responsibly,” she said. Breaking with tradition, she explained the rationale for receiving all three reports together.

“Previously, we received two reports at a time, but this year I decided to include the PPRA report alongside CAG and PCCB. Public procurement consumes a large share of government funds, so it is essential for transparency and accountability that these reports are reviewed collectively,” she said.

President Hassan also highlighted the public’s right to information. “Tanzanians must know how government funds are spent.

These institutions help protect taxpayers’ money, improve service delivery, and strengthen trust in government,” she said. She outlined the complementary roles of the three bodies: CAG audits the use of public resources, PCCB prevents and combats corruption, and PPRA supervises procurement to ensure value for money.

“Together, they form the backbone of good governance and accountability,” she added. On the reports themselves, she noted progress in financial management, citing an increase in clean audit certificates, while PCCB has tracked funds saved and anti-corruption measures implemented.

She also praised PPRA’s NEST system for enhancing procurement transparency, urging continued compliance and the “name and shame” approach to improve performance. “Accountability is not optional.

It is the responsibility of every public leader and citizen. Where negligence or misconduct is found, the government will take decisive action,” she said.

President Hassan formally received the reports and confirmed that the CAG report will be tabled in Parliament under Article 143(4) of the Constitution, with recommendations from all three institutions guiding stronger oversight and improved public service delivery. .

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania’s drive towards a modern, digital economy is gathering pace, with the Bank of Tanzania (BoT) emphasising that efficient and inclusive payment systems are central to economic transformation and financial inclusion.

Deputy Governor in charge of Economic and Financial Policies, Dr Yamungu Kayandabila, made the remarks while addressing Master of Business Administration (MBA) students from Stanford University during their visit to the Bank in Dar es Salaam. “Payment systems contribute to inclusive economic growth by enabling payments and settlements that support supply chains and underpin financial sector stability,” Dr Kayandabila said.

He said that well-functioning systems not only facilitate day-to-day transactions but also improve the effectiveness of monetary policy. “Efficient, secure and inclusive payment systems enhance the transmission of central bank interest rate decisions and strengthen liquidity management across the economy,” he added.

Dr Kayandabila outlined the history of Tanzania’s payment system reforms, noting that modernisation began in the mid-1990s as part of broader financial sector reforms. Prior to this, cash and paper-based processes dominated, with cheque clearing taking up to 14 days in upcountry areas and seven days in Dar es Salaam.

The turning point came in 1996 when BoT launched the National Payment Systems Reform Project, transitioning to electronic systems aligned with international standards. The central bank continues to monitor global payment innovations and collaborate with regional and international partners to adopt best practices while safeguarding financial stability and consumer interests.

Meanwhile, Director of National Payment Systems, Ms Lucy Shaidi, highlighted key achievements up to 2025, including rapid growth in instant payments, mobile financial services and interoperable platforms. “These developments are driving Tanzania towards a more inclusive, efficient and increasingly digital financial system,” she said.

Among the milestones is the Tanzania Instant Payment System (TIPS), which allows users to send and receive money instantly across different financial institutions, reducing costs and expanding access for individuals and businesses. The system represents a major step forward in Tanzania’s journey towards a fully digital and inclusive economy.

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Dar es Salaam. European partners have said they will continue to strength investment and trade ties with Tanzania.

The statement came as the business community marked ten years of collaboration under the European Business Group Tanzania (EUBG). The anniversary event in Dar es Salaam brought together representatives from the European Union, the United Kingdom, Norway and Switzerland.

Speakers highlighted the importance of closer engagement with Tanzania’s private sector as a driver of economic growth. European Union Ambassador to Tanzania, Christine Grau, said the milestone reflects a renewed focus on improving the investment climate.

She noted that European businesses are expanding in Tanzania amid global economic shifts. “The EUBG has grown from a small group into a network of over 130 members,” she said.

“It provides a structured platform for dialogue with policymakers and supports knowledge exchange.” Amb Grau added that initiatives such as Global Gateway are expected to improve connectivity.

They will also attract quality investments and deliver lasting benefits for local communities. EUBG executive director, Marloes Hamelink, said the organisation remains committed to promoting responsible and sustainable investment.

She highlighted the group’s role in providing reliable market information and professional networks to members. Ms Hamelink noted that the EUBG will continue to support private sector development.

Its aim is to strengthen investor confidence and facilitate informed business decisions. As the organisation enters its second decade, it plans to deepen partnerships.

Engagement with both public and private stakeholders will remain a priority. The group will also continue advocating for a business environment based on free trade and fair competition.

The introduction of honorary memberships was announced. They will be offered to European ambassadors and selected diplomatic stakeholders.

This initiative aims to strengthen institutional cooperation and policy dialogue. European representatives said private sector collaboration remains central to development cooperation.

They identified priority sectors including digital development, agribusiness, renewable energy, critical minerals and sustainable infrastructure. Investment in these sectors is expected to accelerate economic transformation.

It will also support Tanzania’s industrialisation agenda. Looking ahead, the group outlined three key areas of focus.

The first is expanding access to European markets. The second is promoting local value addition in processing and manufacturing.

The third is creating jobs through investments that enhance the skills and competitiveness of Tanzanian enterprises. These measures are intended to foster inclusive growth.

They will also strengthen Tanzania’s position in regional and global value chains. .

Dar es Salaam. The government has moved to reassure farmers that Tanzania has sufficient fertiliser stocks to meet current needs despite the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which has raised concerns over global supply disruptions.

The Tanzania Fertilizer Regulatory Authority (TFRA) said existing reserves are adequate to cover the ongoing farming season and extend into the next planting cycle, easing fears of an imminent shortage. Speaking to The Citizen, TFRA director of domestic production and joint procurement, Mr Louis Kasera, said the country currently holds more than 300,000 tonnes of fertiliser, which is expected to last through the current season ending in July and into the next season.

“We do not expect any disruption to fertiliser availability for now. Tanzania has sufficient stocks.

We are also taking steps to ensure continued supply if the situation persists ” he said. Mr Kasera noted that while the current situation remains stable, the government has already developed both short-term and long-term strategies to cushion the country against potential shocks should the conflict drag on.

He explained that Tanzania imports a significant portion of its fertiliser–particularly urea–from Middle Eastern countries, making global geopolitical developments a key factor in supply planning. “We import much of our fertiliser, especially urea, from Middle Eastern countries such as Qatar.

However, since the conflict is unlikely to end soon, we plan to shift to Russia as a short-term solution for imports during the August to October farming season,” he said. According to TFRA, about 84 percent of fertiliser used in Tanzania is imported, with roughly 40 percent originating from the Middle East.

National demand exceeds one million tonnes annually. Despite this reliance on imports, Mr Kasera said Tanzania has the capacity to produce more than 1.

2 million tonnes of fertiliser domestically, but uptake remains limited as many farmers continue to prefer imported products due to long-standing perceptions and habits. He said the government is intensifying awareness campaigns to encourage the use of locally produced fertiliser, with expectations that adoption will increase in the coming seasons as farmers gain confidence in its quality and effectiveness.

On long-term measures, Mr Kasera said the government is in discussions with two factories to begin producing fertiliser using natural gas, a move expected to provide a sustainable solution and significantly reduce dependence on imports. He noted that once operational, the initiative will help stabilise supply and prices, while enhancing the country’s resilience to global market shocks.

The reassurances come against the backdrop of an ongoing conflict involving Iran, which began on February 28, 2026, following joint airstrikes by the United States and Israel, triggering wider regional instability. The conflict has affected key energy-producing areas and major global shipping routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns over disruptions in oil and gas supply chains.

The situation has already pushed up global fuel prices and increased transportation and production costs, with potential knock-on effects on agricultural inputs such as fertiliser, which rely heavily on energy in their production and distribution. Despite the government’s assurances, fertiliser importers have cautioned that prolonged instability could lead to price increases, particularly for urea.

General manager of TriaChem Tanzania Limited which imports fertiliser, Mr Adrian Moss, said the company had secured sufficient stocks before the conflict began, but future imports could be affected by market uncertainty. “We imported seven containers of fertiliser before the conflict began, which are expected to last between six and seven months.

Although we had planned to import larger quantities, uncertainty in the market has limited our orders,” he said. Mr Moss warned that rising shipping costs and volatility in global markets are likely to push fertiliser prices higher if the conflict persists.

He said urea is expected to be the most affected due to its high demand among farmers, although other types of fertiliser may also see price increases, albeit to a lesser extent. Overall, Mr Kasera maintained that the government remains vigilant and prepared to act, emphasising that safeguarding fertiliser supply is critical to ensuring food security and agricultural productivity in the country.

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