Category: The Citizen

Dodoma. The A large-scale training initiative bringing together more than 1,000 farmers and small-scale processors from Dodoma, Singida, Iringa, and Mbeya has commenced, marking a major step in government efforts to empower rural producers and transform agriculture into a modern, profitable sector.

The programme, launched yesterday, seeks to equip farmers, particularly youth and women, with advanced skills in agribusiness, value addition, and entrepreneurship. It also aims to enhance access to modern technology, infrastructure, and markets as part of broader strategies to industrialise the sector and promote inclusive economic growth.

Speaking at the launch, the Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office (Labour, Youth, Employment and Persons with Disabilities), Ms Zuhura Yunus, said the government remains steadfast in supporting farmers to move from subsistence production to sustainable, commercial agriculture. She urged participants to stay committed despite the challenges they face, noting that agriculture demands patience, endurance, and long-term vision.

“The government recognises the gaps in the value chain, and that is why we have brought you together to gain the knowledge needed to address them,” she said. Ms Yunus underscored the critical role agriculture continues to play in Tanzania’s economy, contributing 26.5 percent of GDP, employing about 65 percent of the workforce, and accounting for nearly 30 percent of export earnings.

She added that the sector holds vast potential for wealth creation and job opportunities through the sale and processing of agricultural produce. She further explained that the training aligns with the country’s long-term development goals, as outlined in the Dira 2050, which aspires to build a competitive, diversified economy underpinned by industrialisation and a skilled labour force.

Dodoma Regional Administrative Secretary, Aziza Mumba, observed that the processing industry still faces hurdles, particularly due to a shortage of technical expertise and limited capital. “Some processors struggle even to design quality packaging and often import simple materials such as label paper,” she said.

The Director General of the Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI), Dr Thomas Bwana, said his institution would oversee the training to ensure that participants benefit fully. He noted that the programme is part of wider efforts to strengthen resilience and uplift farmers from low-income levels by boosting productivity and confidence in their work.

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Dar es Salaam. The government is confident that four Tanzanian football clubs, Yanga, Simba, Azam FC, and Singida Black Stars–are poised to make history by reaching the group stages of the CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup.

Gerson Msigwa, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts, and Sports, and government spokesperson, made the remarks while commenting on the outcomes of the first-leg matches in the CAF group stage qualifiers. According to Msigwa, Simba, representing Tanzania in the Champions League, and Azam FC, competing in the Confederation Cup, have already taken a major step toward qualification following strong away victories.

Simba thrashed Nsingizini Hotspurs of Eswatini 3-0, while Azam FC secured a 2-0 triumph over KMKM of Zanzibar. Both teams now need only a draw in their return legs to confirm their spots in the next stage.

Singida Black Stars, who drew 1-1 against Flambeau du Centre of Burundi, require just a goalless draw in the second leg to advance to the group stage of the Confederation Cup. Regarding Yanga, who suffered a 1-0 defeat to Malawi’s Silver Strikers in the Champions League first leg, Msigwa expressed strong confidence in their ability to overturn the deficit.

Yanga need at least a 2-0 win over Malawi’s Silver Strikers FC to qualify for the CAF Champions League group stage. “Despite the loss, Yanga played well and created several scoring opportunities.

With careful preparation ahead of the return leg, I am confident they can win and secure a place in the group stage,” said Msigwa. He added that the government has been closely monitoring all matches and believes this is a historic moment for Tanzanian football.

“I have watched all the games, and I am certain that having four Tanzanian teams reach the group stages will be a landmark achievement for our country,” he said. In a morale-boosting initiative, Msigwa revealed plans to visit all four teams’ camps to encourage players and personally deliver the ‘Mama’s Goal’ funds, provided by President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

The incentives are set at: Simba Sh15 million, Azam FC Sh10 million, and Singida Black Stars Sh5 million. With strong performances in the first-leg fixtures, Tanzanian football fans are hopeful the country will celebrate an unprecedented achievement in CAF competitions.

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Dar es Salaam. The CCM presidential candidate, Samia Suluhu Hassan, yesterday unveiled a plan aimed at eradicating the commuting challenges that have long plagued Dar es Salaam.

The city’s heavy traffic congestion forces residents to spend hours travelling to and from work, costing the economy in fuel consumption, lost productivity and rising stress levels. Addressing supporters at the Leaders Club grounds in Kinondoni, President Hassan detailed how, if re-elected, she plans to complete ongoing Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) projects, expand and build new roads, construct flyovers at major junctions and protect the city against floods by directing water to the ocean through upgraded infrastructure.

“Dar es Salaam is not just a city; it is Tanzania’s heartbeat,” she told the crowd. “Our goal is to make it a place where every Tanzanian can live decently, do business easily and access quality services, from healthcare and education to water and transport.

” With 95 kilometres of BRT already constructed and several areas still under development, commuting remains a nightmare. President Hassan said all remaining phases would be completed within five years.

Problems to end in January 2026 “Residents will start seeing significant improvements from January 2026,” she said. She further added that ENG will provide 177 buses for the first BRT phase along Morogoro Road, while Mofat has already supplied 255 buses for the second phase on Kilwa Road.

YG Link is expected to add 166 buses soon, with Metro Link City bringing in 334 buses when construction of the remaining lanes is completed. The President also highlighted improvements in city hospitals, including congestion at Muhimbili National Hospital, achieved through expansion and new facilities.

She reiterated her plan to roll out universal health insurance to ensure no family is denied treatment or dignity due to financial constraints. “We are implementing universal health coverage so that no Tanzanian will be denied medical care or the right to bury their loved ones due to hospital debts,” she said.

On water supply, President Hassan reaffirmed the government’s commitment to completing the Kidunda Dam project, which is expected to benefit residents of Dar es Salaam, Coast, and Morogoro regions. “The Kidunda Dam will ensure safe and reliable water for our people,” she said.

She also promised to address land conflicts and housing shortages through the ‘Samia Housing Project’, which aims to provide safe, affordable homes to thousands of residents. “In addition to the East African Trade Centre that has already created thousands of jobs, we will build more modern markets to empower small traders,” she said, announcing plans for a large Machinga Complex in Ubungo to provide a dignified business environment.

Warns against voting day protests Turning to security ahead of the elections, President Hassan warned against any attempts to disrupt peace on polling day. “I am speaking to you as the Commander-in-Chief,” she declared.

“On October 29, the only demonstrations allowed are those of Tanzanians walking to polling stations to vote. Anything else will be handled accordingly.

” Her remarks follow reports of social media mobilisation by groups calling for protests on election day, which the government has condemned as attempts to undermine democracy and public safety. Earlier, Water Minister Jumaa Aweso praised President Hassan for transforming Dar es Salaam’s water supply, noting that the city now enjoys stable access thanks to major government investment.

“President Samia has invested over Sh1 trillion to ensure residents get safe and clean water,” he said, adding that the Kidunda Dam alone is worth over Sh336 billion. Construction Minister Abdallah Ulega also commended her for directing more than Sh1.7 trillion towards addressing city congestion and flooding.

“You expanded the UbungoKimara road and approved the BRT extension to Mbagala. These are visible changes, and the people of Dar es Salaam are ready to vote for you again,” said Mr Ulega.

Kinondoni parliamentary candidate Abbas Tarimba lauded President Hassan for tackling long-standing infrastructure challenges, including the Ng’ombe River drainage project and the Msimbazi Basin flood control plan worth over Sh3.1 trillion. “People of Kinondoni are ready for October 29. They know the progress is real and the future is bright under your leadership,” he said.

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Unguja. Zanzibar President Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi has said that, for the first time, the share of domestic revenue has risen significantly, enabling the Isles to finance much of its operations using its own resources–thanks to robust digital systems and tighter revenue controls.

He said that through the Zanzibar Sukuk initiative, the government has successfully financed several strategic projects, strengthened investor confidence, and opened new avenues for private sector participation in national development. He said every strong economy depends on efficient revenue institutions, adding that his administration had implemented major reforms in tax collection and strengthened the Zanzibar Revenue Authority (ZRA) along with its internal systems.

“We have introduced digital tax collection systems that have significantly reduced revenue leakages, improved efficiency, and made compliance easier for taxpayers,” said Dr Mwinyi during a ceremony held at State House grounds in Zanzibar to celebrate the Isles’ economic and financial reforms, distribute dividends to investors in the Zanzibar Sukuk, and launch a new Islamic-compliant social security scheme. He noted that Zanzibar is now reaping the results of these efforts, with the economy growing by more than 7.

2 percent annually. He added that sound policies, modern systems, and prudent management of public finances continue to support Zanzibar’s economic expansion.

Dr Mwinyi further cited increased domestic and foreign investment, stable single-digit inflation, and a 278 percent rise in domestic revenue over the past five years, alongside strong performance in the services, tourism, agriculture, and fisheries sectors. He said the reforms are grounded in accountability, transparency, and effective use of modern technologies.

Speaking about the Sukuk, Dr Mwinyi said that after launching it in 2024, the government is now witnessing the first payout to investors–a milestone that demonstrates its effectiveness in managing sovereign instruments. “Through Sukuk, the government has financed strategic projects, strengthened investor confidence, and opened new doors for private sector participation in national development,” he said.

“This marks a new financial chapter that places Zanzibar on the global map of Islamic investment. We have every reason to celebrate these achievements and thank everyone who made them possible.

” Dr Mwinyi added that inclusive economic growth cannot be achieved without a solid insurance framework. To that end, the government, through the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC), has launched an Islamic insurance (Takaful) scheme designed to provide Sharia-compliant coverage.

He said the scheme is already improving access to health services, ensuring that hospitals and clinics receive timely funding, and giving citizens greater confidence in accessing quality healthcare. Speaking on the newly launched Sharia-based social security scheme, Dr Mwinyi said the initiative will allow the Zanzibar Social Security Fund (ZSSF) to invest in Sharia-compliant ventures–including facilitating Hajj (pilgrimage) arrangements for members.

Meanwhile, the Minister of State in the President’s Office (Finance and Planning), Dr Saada Mkuya Salum, commended Dr Mwinyi for steering significant financial and economic reforms over his five-year leadership term. “Leadership demands creativity and forward thinking, and the President has demonstrated both.

When he assumed office, the financial management systems were not in good shape, but he has turned that around,” she said. Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Finance and Planning, Mr Aboud Hassan Mwinyi, said that over the past five years, the Eighth Phase Government has implemented major reforms across the economic and financial sectors–forming the backbone of national development.

He said that during this period, actual revenue rose from Sh671 billion to Sh2.9 trillion, the central government budget increased from Sh1.5 trillion to Sh6.9 trillion, and the development budget share grew from 24 to 65 percent. Similarly, the national GDP expanded from S trillion to Sh6.5 trillion.

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Dar es Salaam. The Drug Control and Enforcement Authority (DCEA) has arrested four people accused of making cannabis biscuits during a house party in the city.

The suspects, all aged 26 and reported to be university students, were found celebrating a friend’s birthday at a house in Mlalakuwa, where the biscuits were allegedly being prepared. This is not the first time such products have been seized in incidents involving students, a trend that authorities say signals a growing risk among young people.

DCEA Commissioner General Aretas Lyimo said the suspects were found with 140 cannabis biscuits, eight rolls of marijuana, and nine packets of cannabis weighing a total of 2.858 kilogrammes.

“This shows how our young people are putting their lives in danger by engaging in the production of drug-laced products for leisure,” Mr Lyimo said. He urged university students to stay away from drug abuse and focus on their studies to achieve their dreams.

“Our youth are the country’s workforce. We want them to live healthy lives and avoid being misled into using drugs for entertainment.

The authority will not hesitate to take firm action against anyone involved in such offences,” he warned. In a separate operation, DCEA seized a total of 10,763.94 kilogrammes of various narcotic drugs, 6,007 kilogrammes and 153 litres of precursor chemicals during nationwide operations conducted between September and October 2025. At Kariakoo, Dar es Salaam, the authority intercepted 40.32 kilogrammes of dried khat disguised as spices and packed in 80 packets labelled “Dry Basil Leaves.

” The consignment was being shipped to Canada and Italy through courier companies. Two suspects were arrested, and initial investigations revealed that the drugs had been smuggled into Tanzania from a neighbouring country.

“Our investigation has uncovered a khat trafficking network using motorcycle riders and some courier agents to move drugs discreetly. This network risks damaging the country’s international image, and we will not tolerate it,” said Mr Lyimo.

He added that the authority is also investigating the use of cannabis in consumer products such as beverages, food, cosmetics, and electronic cigarettes (vapes), some of which have been found to contain cannabis compounds. Mr Lyimo said joint operations between DCEA and other security agencies across the regions led to the seizure of 9,164.92 kilogrammes of cannabis, 1,555.46 kilogrammes of khat, 367 grammes of skunk, and 7.

498 grammes of heroin, as well as the destruction of 11.5 acres of cannabis farms. He also warned motorcycle riders, transport company owners, and courier agents to be cautious with the goods they handle to avoid falling into legal trouble.

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Chalinze. In a small village in Chalinze District, laughter fills the air as 63-year-old Mwanaidi Seleman, a traditional birth attendant, welcomes visitors.

Her eyes gleam with life–a sharp contrast to the years she endured the blinding pain of trachoma, a disease that once robbed her of hope. Her left eye had gone blind, and many in her community believed she was cursed for “bearing too many children.

” Today, she shares her story with renewed joy. “I had lost all hope,” she says softly.

“But after receiving treatment through the government’s programme, I can now see clearly. God is good.

” Behind her recovery is Margreth Mumbua, a clinical officer and skilled trachoma trichiasis (TT) surgeon, whose compassion and precision have restored sight to hundreds across Chalinze. After graduating from Mvumi Clinical Training College in 2005, she received specialised training under the Ministry of Health’s trachoma elimination initiative.

“For nearly two decades, I’ve travelled to remote villages, performing eye surgeries for people who might otherwise have gone blind,” she says. “When I see my patients regain their vision, my heart is full.

” Breaking superstition Ms Margreth admits that superstition remains a major obstacle. “Many believe elderly people suffering from trachoma are witches.

It takes time to convince them that this disease is preventable and treatable,” she explains. To build trust, she learned local languages, saying this helped “break down walls of fear and mistrust.

” Among the hundreds she has treated, one patient remains unforgettable: Emmanuel, a commuter bus driver from Bagamoyo. He suffered from painful inward-turning eyelashes caused by trachoma.

His case was complicated by a heart condition and the use of blood-thinning drugs. Despite the risks, Margreth performed surgery.

Hours later, Emmanuel began bleeding and was rushed back. Margreth stabilised him but was called again late that night.

She drove through rough roads, reaching Bagamoyo at 1 a.m.

“My heart sank when I saw him,” she recalls. “But I knew I had to act.

” She worked tirelessly until 3:30 a.m.

, when the bleeding stopped. Two weeks later, Emmanuel’s eye had healed completely.

“That night will stay with me forever,” she says. Restoring hope For Margreth, her work is more than a profession–it is a calling.

She urges people to seek help early. “If something feels wrong with your eyes for more than two or three days, go to hospital.

Don’t wait for a miracle,” she advises. Ms Mwanaidi, who suffered for two years before getting surgery, says, “Margreth operated on my eye, cleaned it and kept checking on me.

Within two months, I was healed.” Another patient, Rosemary Masanja, known locally as Bibi Tito from Fukayosi in Bagamoyo, endured eye discomfort for nearly 20 years.

“One day, health workers came to register people with eye problems,” she recalls. “I was diagnosed with trachoma in both eyes and had surgery.

” After the operation, I could see clearly again.” National efforts According to Dr Faraja Lyamuya, the Ministry of Health’s Manager for Lymphatic Filariasis and Hydrocele Control, community participation remains a challenge in eliminating trachoma.

“To end this disease, community involvement is crucial,” he says. National NTD Programme Manager Dr Clarer Mwansasu says over 41,000 trachoma surgeries have been conducted since 2014. When the SAFE strategy–Surgery, Antibiotics, Facial cleanliness, and Environmental improvement–was introduced in 1999, 69 communities had active trachoma cases.

“As of 2025, 64 districts have reached elimination thresholds,” he notes. “TT cases have dropped from 167,000 in 2004 to about 10,000 in 2023.” However, over one million people remain at risk, especially in pastoral communities that migrate frequently.

For health workers like Margreth, every successful surgery is more than a medical milestone–it is a victory against darkness, ignorance, and avoidable blindness. .

Dar es Salaam. As Tanzania moves forward with the implementation of universal health insurance (UHI), stakeholders have underscored the crucial role of artificial intelligence (AI) in expediting claims processing, curbing fraud, enhancing service delivery and meeting the growing demands of the healthcare sector.

In the past, disputes between healthcare providers and insurance firms often arose from contract breaches or delayed payments, ultimately affecting patients seeking care. However, the introduction of digital systems, particularly those powered by AI, has significantly reduced such challenges.

This development comes as Tanzania prepares to roll out its much-anticipated UHI scheme. President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who is also the ruling party’s presidential candidate in next week’s general election, has pledged to launch the initiative within her first 100 days in office if re-elected.

Speaking when she launched her campaigns in Dar es Salaam late in August, she said the pilot phase of the UHI would initially cover children, the elderly, expectant mothers and people with disabilities. Their treatment costs would be fully financed by the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).

“Within the same 100 days, we will also finance specialised medical treatment and diagnostic services for underprivileged citizens suffering from non-communicable diseases such as cancer, kidney failure, heart conditions, orthopaedic complications and neurological disorders,” President Hassan said. To strengthen service delivery, she added, the government would employ 5,000 health workers, including nurses and midwives, with the aim of improving maternal and child health.

At a recent panel discussion during the launch of the 2024 Insurance Market Report in Dodoma, the chairman of the Medical Insurance Council and CEO of Jubilee Insurance, Dr Adamson Harold, noted that claims management had improved considerably over the past two years thanks to digital systems supported by AI. “For instance, Jubilee Insurance has made significant investments in technology to ensure that claims are processed on time and results are transparent.

Between January and September, we processed over $700,000 in hospital claims without any disputes because everything went according to plan,” he said. Dr Harold stressed that the integration of AI into the UHI rollout was inevitable, as it reduces human error and enhances operational efficiency.

“When both parties trust the results generated by AI systems, it minimises disputes and eliminates issues like duplicate payments for services,” he added. Sharing similar sentiments, the NHIF Membership Services director, Dr Alfonse Chandika, said the fund was developing an AI-powered system to process claims more swiftly and accurately, reducing reliance on manual methods that have previously caused misunderstandings with healthcare providers.

“It’s true that in the past, there were challenges that caused friction between us and service providers. However, through the systems currently in place and those under development, these issues are being addressed.

As the population continues to grow, AI is essential to help us work more efficiently,” he said. As part of preparations for the full UHI rollout, NHIF has expanded its operations to 42 strategically selected districts across the country to ensure faster and more efficient service delivery.

Currently, only about 15 percent of Tanzanians are covered by formal health insurance schemes, highlighting the need for broader access. Citizens can now register digitally, eliminating the need for physical cards and expediting access to care.

To further increase reach, NHIF has partnered with the Association of Tanzania Insurers, with 23 insurance agents already working alongside the fund. It is also collaborating with mobile phone operators, social workers and grassroots organisations to promote enrolment in the UHI scheme.

Benjamin Mkapa Hospital’s Director General, Prof Abel Makubi, commended the progress made so far but emphasised the need for further improvements to ensure high-quality services, particularly in access to medicines and diagnostic tests. “The introduction of UHI will raise expectations among citizens.

It’s essential that services are enhanced before the rollout begins. Citizens deserve quality care, timely access to medication and respectful, compassionate service,” he said.

On the technological front, the Ministry of Health has made notable strides in strengthening digital infrastructure, an essential step as the number of insured clients increases. However, stakeholders emphasised the need for greater system interoperability to ensure seamless service delivery.

They also highlighted the importance of creating a supportive work environment and equipping health personnel with continuous training on digital systems and insurance claims management. Dedicated teams within healthcare facilities, they said, should oversee claims to ensure efficiency and accuracy before submission to insurance funds.

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Dodoma. The Public Service Commission (PSC) has reinstated 34 public servants who were dismissed by their employers, while nine other cases have been referred back to lower authorities for rehearing.

The Commission has also upheld disciplinary actions imposed on 38 other employees. Out of these, ten appeals were dismissed for being filed out of time, while two others were deferred for further review by the Secretariat.

Releasing the figures yesterday, the Acting Secretary of the PSC, Mr John Mbisso, said the Commission had received a total of 15 complaints. Of these, six were upheld, six rejected and three struck out for specific reasons.

Mr Mbisso said the Commission met in Dodoma from September 29 to October 17, under the chairmanship of retired Judge Hamisa Kalombola, to review and determine 108 appeals and complaints filed by public servants. He recalled that on September 26, the Commission held a press briefing to explain its approach to handling appeals and complaints, stressing its commitment to fairness through advisory and corrective mechanisms, as well as ensuring justice in the public service.

According to him, local government authorities accounted for the majority of the cases, particularly involving ward, village and street-level officials. The Commission summoned 18 appellants and three respondents to provide further clarification on the matters raised.

“The most common offences committed by public servants included breaches of the code of ethics, absenteeism, forgery of certificates and falsification of information, negligence in performing duties and theft of public property,” he said. The Commission’s legal officer, Mr Hussein Mussa, said the employees who won their appeals must be reinstated immediately and paid all their dues.

He added that if the employers wished to contest the decision, they could appeal to the President of the United Republic of Tanzania. Mr Mussa further said that the nine employees whose cases were returned for rehearing should also be reinstated and paid their salaries before the new proceedings begin.

“There is no loss to the government compared to the injustice that public servants suffer when their fundamental rights are violated. The law requires that those whose cases are to be reheard must first be reinstated and paid before proceedings resume,” he said.

He urged employing authorities to follow proper procedures before dismissing staff, warning that many cases reviewed by the Commission show employees being unfairly treated by lower-level administrative bodies. .

Mwanza. With nine days remaining before the October 29, 2025 General Election, religious leaders in Mwanza have issued a joint statement urging Tanzanians to maintain peace and unity, and to turn out in large numbers to vote.

The statement was read yesterday by the Mwanza Regional Peace Committee co-chairperson, Bishop Charles Sekelwa, during a peace symposium attended by Christian and Muslim leaders. The leaders called on citizens to exercise their constitutional right to vote freely and responsibly, while avoiding acts that could trigger violence or disturb public order.

“It is the duty of every Tanzanian to use their constitutional right to vote,” they said in the joint declaration, adding that peace must be maintained before, during and after the polls. “We urge all citizens to vote for the President, Members of Parliament and Councillors at all levels with love, wisdom and responsibility.

After voting, everyone should return home peacefully, without engaging in violence or using hateful language, to preserve the image of our peaceful nation,” the statement reads in part. The leaders also said they will continue to pray for a peaceful election, asking God to bless Tanzania with wisdom, unity and stability throughout the electoral period.

“Let us remember that peace is the foundation of development, unity is strength, and love is the solution to every challenge,” they said. Bishop Sekelwa reminded voters that every Tanzanian has the democratic right to choose leaders of their choice.

“True freedom lies in the ability to choose the person who will lead you. Voting is a constitutional right, and electing a leader you believe in is also your right,” he said.

His co-chairperson, Mwanza Regional Sheikh Hassan Kabeke, stressed that peace must always precede justice. “Justice cannot exist without peace.

For us Muslims, it is our right to pray five times a day, and for our Christian brothers and sisters, on Sundays. But if there is unrest, who will go to pray? Peace is the foundation of justice,” Sheikh Kabeke said.

Committee member Pastor Upendo Isaya cited the Bible, which encourages believers to seek peace with everyone, noting that wise decisions can only be made in a calm environment. “Your vote is a contract between you and your leader.

As we head to the polls, despite what is being said, the most important thing is to seek peace and make wise decisions,” he said. The chairperson of the Mwanza Muslim Women’s Association, Amina Masenza, urged women and youth to fulfil their civic duty peacefully, saying all citizens aged 18 and above should participate in the elections.

The committee’s adviser, Dr Jacob Mutashi, said religious leaders are partners of the government in maintaining peace. He urged clerics to remind their congregants to obey police instructions on election day.

“Peace and stability are our main agenda in places of worship during this election period,” he said. “We must tell our people to listen carefully to police directives because officers will be deployed across all areas to maintain security,” he added.

Former cabinet minister Lazaro Nyalandu also called on Tanzanians to uphold unity and avoid any form of discrimination, saying peace remains the nation’s most valuable asset. Meanwhile, Mwanza Regional Commissioner Said Mtanda assured residents that the region is safe ahead of the polls.

“Mwanza is calm. The regional government and our security and defence organs are fully prepared to ensure the election process is completed peacefully and safely,” he said.

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Dar es Salaam. Tanzania’s national women’s football team, Twiga Stars, has received a major boost ahead of their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifier against Ethiopia, as all players selected for both the first and second leg encounters have now joined camp.

The update was confirmed by Tanzania Women Football Association (TWFA) chairperson Somoe Ng’itu, who expressed satisfaction with the players’ arrival and the team’s preparations ahead of the crucial first-leg match scheduled for tomorrow in Dar es Salaam. Somoe said that all foreign-based players reported to camp on time in accordance with FIFA regulations and are blending well with the locally based squad under the guidance of head coach Bakari Shime.

“Basically, all players are in top shape and waiting for the clash against Ethiopia, who were expected to arrive in the country by last night,” said Somoe. “The spirit in camp is very high, and the technical bench is impressed with how quickly the players have adapted to the game plan.

” Among the foreign-based stars is Diana Lucas, who has been in impressive form for Trabzonspor in the Turkish Women’s Super League. She is expected to play a key role in leading the attack for Twiga Stars.

bAlso joining the squad are the Mexico-based duo of Enekia Kasonga and Julitha Singano, both featuring for FC Juarez. Their inclusion brings valuable international experience, composure, and creativity in the midfield, assets that could make a difference against a disciplined Ethiopian side.

The list of overseas professionals is completed by Hasnath Ubamba of Al Masry in Egypt and Noela Luhala, who plays for Asa Tel Aviv in Israel, both of whom strengthen Tanzania’s defensive options. The locally based contingent features some of the best talents from the domestic league, including Najat Abbas, Asha Mrisho, Donisia Misnja, Lidya Maximilian, Ester Maseke, Fumukazi Ally, Christer Bahera, Janeth Pangamwene, Elizabeth Chenge, Stumai Abdallah, Jamila Rajab, and Winifrida Gerald.

Also named in the squad are Asha Ramadhan, Fatuma Issa, Aisha Mnunka, Maimuna Kaimu, Nusrat Jaffar, and Suzan Adam, completing a well-balanced lineup that combines youth and experience. Somoe added that the team has shown excellent chemistry in training sessions and that focus now shifts to executing the tactical plan effectively.

“Coach Shime and his technical team have prepared the players very well. Everyone knows what’s at stake — qualifying for the WAFCON finals is our biggest goal,” said Somoe.

The return leg is set for October 28 in Ethiopia, with the aggregate winner over the two matches earning a spot in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations finals, to be hosted in Morocco. The tournament will feature 16 of Africa’s best national women’s teams.

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