Category: The Citizen

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania has joined the rest of Africa and the world in mourning the death of Kenyan political icon Raila Amolo Odinga, who passed away at the age of 80 in the southern Indian city of Kochi yesterday morning.

According to reports from Indian media, Odinga suffered a cardiac arrest during a morning walk. His death marks the end of a political era for Kenya and East Africa, where he was widely regarded as one of the region’s most influential leaders.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan expressed her deep sorrow on Instagram, describing the late Odinga as “a distinguished leader, a Pan-Africanist, a peace lover and a seeker of reconciliation whose influence extended not only within Kenya but across East Africa and the entire African continent”. “This is not only Kenya’s loss but a loss for all of us.

On behalf of the Government and the people of the United Republic of Tanzania, I send my heartfelt condolences to the President of the Republic of Kenya, Hon Dr William Samoei Ruto, Mama Ida Odinga, the children, family, relatives, friends and all the people of Kenya for this great loss,” she said. President Hassan added that Tanzania stands in solidarity with Kenya, praying that Almighty God grants the family comfort and strength during this difficult time.

“May He rest the soul of our beloved Hon Raila Amolo Odinga in eternal peace,” she wrote. Regional and local tributes On his X page, Tanzanian politician Godbless Lema expressed deep condolences to the Odinga family and the people of Kenya, describing the late statesman as “a leader of the people, a man of courage and patriotism who dedicated himself wholeheartedly to justice and the well-being of Kenyans.

” Reflecting on life’s fragility, Mr Lema wrote: “Many may ask, ‘Did Raila lack medical care from Nairobi all the way to India?’ The answer is no. This is not about medicine but a reminder of the truth about life.

As King Solomon once said, ‘Everything is vanity, like chasing the wind.’ Human life, regardless of fame or power, ultimately rests in the hands of the Creator.

” He added that Mr Odinga’s perseverance and resilience through imprisonment, persecution and political hardship symbolised his commitment to democracy and justice. Former ACT-Wazalendo party leader Zitto Kabwe also paid tribute, sending condolences to the “greater Jaramogi Odinga Odinga family, the ODM party and all Kenyans.

” He described Mr Odinga’s legacy as one of courage, foresight and unwavering dedication to democracy, saying: “He was willing to make difficult and sometimes unpopular decisions within his community, guided by conviction rather than convenience.” Mr Kabwe likened Mr Odinga’s principled politics to that of the late Maalim Seif Sharif Hamad, noting that both men stood out for their integrity and consistency.

“He was a true Pan-Africanist, deeply engaged in political affairs both within and beyond East Africa,” he said. He added that he had the privilege of meeting Mr Odinga several times and was always struck by his vast knowledge of East African politics and his open-door leadership style.

“He leaves behind a profound legacy of endurance and consistency in the causes he championed. This is indeed a sad day for all East Africans,” he said.

Tributes from across the region Former Kenyan Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua described Mr Odinga as “the father of our democracy and a formidable hero of Kenya’s second liberation.” “You faced brutal regimes, were tortured, jailed, abducted and detained several times for Kenya.

When the history of Africa’s Pan-Africanism is written, your chapter as the indefatigable lion of Africa will attract many readers,” he wrote. He added that Mr Odinga dedicated his life to public service, as a political activist, civil servant, university lecturer, MP, party leader, cabinet minister and prime minister.

“In all these, your trail of success and impact remains indelible,” said Mr Gachagua. Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine also mourned the veteran politician, describing him as “a great statesman who stood tall for freedom, liberty and dignity.

” “In him, we have lost an African giant who did his best for humanity amidst great adversity. Deepest condolences to the great people of Kenya and all pro-democracy forces around the world.

May his soul rest in peace,” he said. Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, writing on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, said he was saddened by Mr Odinga’s passing and extended his condolences to “the people of Kenya, the Odinga family and President William Ruto.

” Mr Odinga’s death has drawn an outpouring of grief across East Africa, with many leaders describing him as a visionary Pan-Africanist whose voice for democracy and social justice will be deeply missed. .

Dar es Salaam. The High Court has adjourned the treason trial of Chadema national chairperson Tundu Lissu earlier than scheduled following the death of Ms Asha Mwetindwa, the Deputy Registrar of the Shinyanga sub-registry.

The case, which is being heard at the High Court’s Dar es Salaam sub-registry, resumed on October 15, 2025, with Mr Lissu continuing to cross-examine the second prosecution witness, Police Inspector John Kaaya, from the Cybercrime Investigation Unit under the office of the Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI). However, the proceedings were cut short at around 11 am instead of the usual closing time, after news broke of Ms Mwetindwa’s passing.

Mr Lissu faces a charge of treason for allegedly making statements that threatened the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania, contrary to Section 39(2)(d) of the Penal Code. According to the charge sheet, on April 3, 2025, in Dar es Salaam, Mr Lissu, being a citizen of Tanzania, allegedly expressed intent to threaten the government by publishing statements on social media, saying in part: “If they say this position signals rebellion, it’s true because we’re saying we’ll stop the election, we’ll mobilise resistance — that’s how change happens so we’re going to make it messy we’ll really disrupt this election we’re going to make it very chaotic” The case is before a panel of three judges led by Justice Dunstan Ndunguru, the Resident Judge of the Iringa sub-registry, alongside Justices James Karayemaha and Ferdinand Kiwonde.

Before the cross-examination resumed, the lead State Attorney, Senior State Counsel Lenatus Mkude, informed the court of Ms Mwetindwa’s death and sought permission for the hearing to be shortened to allow court officials to attend the burial. “Two days ago, after the adjournment of this case, we received news of the passing of a staff member of the High Court, Shinyanga Zone.

According to tradition, we normally participate in such events. Since this is a criminal case, we propose that the hearing continue only until 11 a.

m. before adjournment,” Mr Mkude told the court.

Mr Lissu said he had no objection to the request and asked the prosecution to convey his condolences to the bereaved family. The court then proceeded with the cross-examination, during which Mr Lissu questioned the witness about the evidence he had presented earlier.

At 11 a.m.

, the hearing was adjourned as requested by the prosecution. Justice Ndunguru postponed the trial to Thursday, October 16, when the defence will continue cross-examining the witness.

Highlights from the cross-examination Lissu: After all I asked you on Monday, did you have time to rewatch the video of April 3, 2025, which you said you first saw on April 4, 2025? Witness: No. Lissu: Are you aware that distributing or helping to distribute treasonous material is itself an offence of treason? Witness: I am not aware.

Lissu: Do you know that under our laws, making a statement alone cannot constitute treason? Witness: I am not aware. Lissu: Is it true that, for an act to qualify as treason, there must first be intent? Witness: True.

Lissu: And that intent must be proven either by written or physical acts? Witness: True. Lissu: Is it true that my meeting on April 3 was broadcast live by Jambo TV? Witness: True.

Lissu: And it is also true that I (Lissu) am not an employee of Jambo TV nor have any connection to it? Witness: I did not investigate the people behind Jambo TV. Lissu: Did you record in your police statement that I was wearing a combat jacket with a flag in the background? Witness: No, I didn’t.

Lissu: Did you submit the flash drive containing the video to the court? Witness: Not yet. Lissu: So it’s correct to say no one else has seen it — not the judges nor the prosecution? Witness: True.

Lissu: Does the government conduct the general election? Witness: True. Lissu: And the charges against me claim I sought to mobilise people to stop the 2025 general election.

Is that true or not? Witness: It depends. Lissu: Have you properly examined the charge sheet? Witness: I haven’t.

Lissu: So you don’t know exactly what I’m charged with? Witness: (Silent). .

Dar es Salaam. A surge in gold purchases by central banks globally has pushed the precious metal to become the second-largest reserve asset after the US dollar, according to a report by the European Central Bank (ECB) released in June this year.

However, analysts warn that some institutions may be approaching saturation levels. Central bank gold holdings have returned to levels last seen in the 1960s, though unlike in that era, prices have soared–recently surpassing 4,000 US dollars per ounce.

In 2023, gold and the euro each accounted for approximately 16.5 percent of global official reserves. By 2024, gold’s share rose to 19 percent while the euro fell to 16 percent.

The US dollar remained dominant at 47 percent. Gold, along with foreign currencies, is traditionally held by central banks to hedge against inflation and to diversify investment risk.

It also acts as a buffer, with reserves deployed to support national currencies during periods of financial stress. Currently, central banks represent about 20 percent of global gold demand–double their share in the 2010s.

The ECB report noted that gold is increasingly attractive to emerging and developing economies, which are concerned about financial sanctions and the declining relevance of major currencies in the global monetary system. Over recent years, gold has repeatedly broken price records.

However, 2025 has brought considerable volatility, partly due to swiftly changing US fiscal policies. A major shift occurred in February 2022 when Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

The war, combined with rising inflation and interest rate expectations, drove investors toward gold as a safe-haven asset. That trend has persisted amid ongoing geopolitical and economic uncertainty.

China has been the most active in driving up gold demand, while India and Turkey are also among the world’s top buyers. Meanwhile, the US dollar–long the world’s primary reserve and trading currency–is facing growing challenges from rival currencies and shifting global economic dynamics.

Many countries are now diversifying their reserves and trade practices away from the greenback. According to financial platform Wealth, the dollar lost 9.

5 percent of its value by October 8, 2025. During the same period, the euro appreciated by 12.6 percent, the Chinese yuan by 2.6 percent, the Japanese yen by 6.

4 percent, the British pound by 7.3 percent, and the Mexican peso by 13.2 percent.

The decline follows an earlier report by Al Jazeera showing a 10.8 percent drop in the dollar’s value during the first half of 2025–marking the steepest decline since 1973. The trend has been linked to economic policies under President Donald Trump, which have triggered a global sell-off of dollar holdings and weakened the currency’s image as a reliable store of value. Independent economist Oscar Mkude says a weaker dollar makes US products cheaper globally, which could benefit buyers but hurt American exporters.

“This is good news for consumers abroad, but bad news for US sellers and those who export to the US,” he said. He also noted that the shift gives competitive advantage to other currencies in international trade.

Mr Mkude warned that uncertainty around US tariffs is prompting trade partners to seek more stable markets. “Investors are losing confidence.

If one administration imposes restrictions, another might introduce even more. People are searching for alternatives that offer commercial freedom without negative economic consequences,” he added.

He also noted that the US is expected to lower interest rates soon, reducing returns for those holding dollar-based assets. While exporters like Tanzania could receive lower returns on goods such as coffee, importers stand to benefit from cheaper international products.

“Fuel prices, for instance, could fall, offering relief to consumers,” he said. He added that tourism operators paid in dollars may earn less, though the Tanzanian shilling remains relatively strong.

Economist Dr Donath Olomi echoed similar sentiments, saying a falling dollar presents both risks and opportunities. “For importers, especially of raw materials, this lowers costs and boosts competitiveness.

But exporters will receive less in dollar terms,” he said. He added that currency volatility makes long-term business planning difficult, and that while switching markets might seem like a solution, it is not always practical.

“Changing trade direction takes time. International trade relationships are built over years, and you may find that by the time you shift, currency values have changed again,” he said.

He also pointed out that long-term contracts, especially in sectors like coffee, limit the flexibility of exporters. Bank of Tanzania Governor Emmanuel Tutuba says the rise in global gold demand has had a positive impact on the Tanzanian economy and currency.

“Gold exports have increased significantly. For the first time, the price of gold has reached 4,063 US dollars per ounce, driven by strong investor demand amid global uncertainty,” said Mr Tutuba.

He explained that the BoT buys gold directly from miners, who either sell locally or export, thereby boosting the country’s foreign exchange reserves. Mr Tutuba added that local manufacturing–particularly in tiles, glass, and furniture–has reduced reliance on imports, further supporting the shilling.

He also highlighted the benefits of a new policy requiring all domestic transactions to be conducted in Tanzanian shillings rather than US dollars. “This approach has strengthened the shilling by ensuring that local goods and services are priced in the national currency, reserving dollars for foreign trade,” he said.

Tourism and agriculture have also contributed to currency stability. The sector has recovered well, especially in Arusha and Zanzibar, following the pandemic.

Exports of maize, beans, rice and groundnuts continue to perform well. “Increased gold sales, reduced import dependency, sound currency policies, pro-growth legislation, and the expansion of non-traditional exports have all played a role in reinforcing the strength of the Tanzanian shilling,” said Mr Tutuba.

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Kagera. President Samia Suluhu Hassan has pledged to accelerate economic transformation in the Kagera Region by heavily investing in agriculture, fisheries, livestock, water and energy sectors.

She assured residents that her government is committed to improving their livelihoods. Speaking in Muleba District on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, President Hassan promised that her next administration would continue modernising key production sectors to ensure no Tanzanian is left behind.

“If you give us your trust again, we will continue modernising the agriculture sector and promoting aquaculture among young people,” she stated. “We will also address transport and health challenges by purchasing five boats for Muleba.

” According to her, two boats will be designated for patient transport, while three will be used for fisheries patrols to combat illegal fishing in Lake Victoria. The President also announced a major water project worth over Sh39.3 billion that will supply clean and safe water to Muleba and neighbouring districts.

“The designs and feasibility studies have been completed,” she explained. “The project will finally end the water shortages that have troubled residents for years.

” On energy access, President Hassan mentioned that the Ilemela electricity receiving station, currently 85 percent complete, will guarantee stable power across Kagera’s islands and villages. “We aim to ensure that no Tanzanian, no matter how remote, is left behind in access to water, electricity, and reliable transport,” she said.

President Hassan further highlighted achievements in the agriculture sector, including the establishment of a 300-acre coffee plantation under the Building a Better Tomorrow (BBT) youth program. “Over 300 young people are managing the farm and gaining hands-on agricultural skills,” she noted.

Additionally, her administration has invested Sh3 billion in fisheries markets and plans to expand fish processing industries in line with CCM’s 20252030 manifesto. “Coffee and banana farming define Kagera’s identity,” she added.

“That’s why we’ve supported farmers with seedlings, farm inputs, and tractors. We will continue providing subsidies to boost productivity.

” She also mentioned that her administration’s focus on unity and empowerment has helped resolve long-standing land disputes between farmers and pastoralists in the region. Residents in Muleba welcomed President Hassan’s pledges and described her leadership as transformative.

“Under President Samia, we’ve seen tangible progress,” said Mr John Mugisha, a coffee farmer from Nyakahanga. “The revival of coffee prices has motivated us to expand our farms.

We trust she will do even more.” Ms Maria Kategile, a mother of three from Kamachumu, praised the government’s focus on clean water, saying: “Fetching water from distant wells has been our daily struggle.

If this new project takes place, it will change our lives completely.” Fisherman Peter Mung’ong’o added: “Illegal fishing has been a huge problem.

With the patrol boats and better equipment, we’ll be able to fish safely and increase our income.” Meanwhile, former opposition member Ezekiah Wenje, who has joined CCM, urged Tanzanians to support President Hassan, describing her as “a symbol of hope and progress for ordinary citizens.

” He reflected on their past interactions, saying, “When you called for dialogue and reconciliation, we dismissed your efforts and insulted you. The Bible teaches us that God does not work with the fearful.

Leadership requires courage and vision — two things Chadema has lost.” Mr Wenje explained that he decided to join CCM because it is “the only party that gives Tanzanians real hope for a better tomorrow.

” Retired CCM Secretary-General Dr Bashiru Ally stated that the massive turnout in Kagera reflects the growing trust in the ruling party’s leadership. “Wherever we go, people turn out in large numbers — that’s a clear message that Tanzanians believe in our candidate,” he said.

“President Hassan keeps her promises. Her leadership has connected Kagera to the rest of the country through projects like the KigongoBusisi Bridge, which will boost trade and mobility.

” Dr Bashiru added that by 2030, Kagera is expected to emerge as one of Tanzania’s most attractive investment hubs. “We once feared travelling at night due to insecurity,” he noted.

“Today, Kagera and its borders are safe. That’s what CCM governance delivers — peace, development, and opportunity.

” As the rally concluded, Mr Wenje’s message resonated with the crowd: “The future belongs to those who choose courage over fear. Let’s move forward with CCM because Tanzania’s tomorrow starts today.

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Dar es Salaam. The presidential campaign in Tanzania has entered its final stretch, with only 12 days remaining before voters head to the polls to elect one of 18 candidates for the presidency.

This period marks the culmination of a 47-day campaign that officially began on August 28. During this time, candidates travelled across the country to present their policies and garner support from citizens. The ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), conducted campaigns in 27 regions, reaching thousands of voters, while the People’s Liberation Party (Chaumma) also covered several regions.

Most other political parties managed to campaign in fewer than 15 regions. As the campaign enters its decisive phase, rallies are expected to intensify in more than 20 regions, with some candidates planning to revisit areas they have already toured.

Political analysts indicate that the final days of the presidential campaign are crucial, as voters usually remember the closing messages more vividly than those shared earlier. Candidates’ final routes CCM’s presidential candidate, Samia Suluhu Hassan, is scheduled to tour the seven regions of Kagera, Rukwa, Katavi, Pwani, Dar es Salaam, Mjini Magharibi (Urban West), and will conclude her campaign in Mwanza.

Salum Mwalimu of Chaumma will campaign in Dodoma, Kigoma, Dar es Salaam, Morogoro, Tabora, Shinyanga, and will end in Simiyu. George Busungu of Ada Tadea will visit Kigoma, Kagera, Shinyanga, Simiyu, and Mara, wrapping up in Mwanza.

Majaliwa Kyala of the Sauti ya Umma (SAU) party aims to complete his campaign in six regions: Kilimanjaro, Iringa, Mbeya, Songwe, Njombe, and Dar es Salaam. Rwamugira Yustas of TLP plans to campaign in Kagera, Mwanza, Arusha, Kilimanjaro, and Dar es Salaam, concluding in Pwani.

Kunje Ngomaremwiru of AAFP intends to visit Mwanza, Mara, Shinyanga, Tabora, Dodoma, Arusha, and Tanga, ending his campaign in Pwani. While the campaign schedules have been announced, experience shows that not all parties are able to hold rallies in every planned region.

Candidates’ perspectives NRA presidential candidate Almas Kisabya stated that he would not intensify his campaign in the coming days, arguing that the groundwork has already been laid and that the message has been well received. “We are confident that our campaign, which covered the entire country — both the mainland and the islands — has achieved two main objectives,” he said.

He cited the successful voter education drive and strong turnout at NRA rallies as indicators that voters will make the right choice on October 29. UDP’s candidate, Saum Rashid, expressed that her party is using the remaining days to consolidate support in areas where they have fielded candidates, including the presidential race. She is confident in a victory, citing improvements in election management this year.

“We believe we are winning because we have seen a real difference this time — with an independent electoral commission, sound laws, and a fair nomination process,” she said. Rashid noted that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had involved political parties from the early stages, giving them confidence in the fairness of the process.

For Coaster Kibonde of Demokrasia Makini, the final days are the most critical phase of the campaign. Currently in the Lake Zone, he is focused on reaching groups he has not previously engaged, including motorcycle taxi operators (bodaboda).

Political analyst Said Majjid noted that in the final stretch of the campaign, candidates often alter their strategies to deliver more impactful and memorable messages. “If earlier parts of a campaign focused on general policy discussions, the final days are when candidates make their boldest and most striking statements,” he explained.

He added that the intensity of campaigning peaks at this stage, as candidates facing tight contests deploy every possible strategy to win over undecided voters. “It’s also the time when accusations, such as corruption and misuse of public resources, often emerge in rallies from both ruling and opposition parties,” Majjid observed.

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Karagwe. Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) presidential candidate, President Samia Suluhu Hassan, has pledged to accelerate development in Karagwe through four key pillars — enhanced social services, economic empowerment, expansion of productive sectors, and modernised infrastructure.

Addressing thousands of residents in Karagwe on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, President Samia reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to inclusive growth, saying that national progress must benefit every Tanzanian without discrimination. “Development is a journey taken step by step.

If you wish to move forward, you must take the next step. That is why we continue to improve social services, strengthen infrastructure, and create an enabling environment for the people of Karagwe and all Tanzanians,” she said.

Improving social services In the health sector, President Samia said her government has made substantial progress in constructing hospitals, health centres, and dispensaries, while ensuring a steady supply of essential medicines. “Nationally, the availability of essential medicines now stands at 86 percent.

We have not yet reached 100, but the progress is commendable. We will continue to improve healthcare until every Tanzanian can access quality medical services close to home,” she affirmed.

On education, she noted that the government continues to invest heavily in schools and vocational training institutions to equip young people with practical skills that align with emerging national projects. “We are building Veta and technical colleges across the country so that our youth can work in key projects such as the oil pipeline, Mchuchuma iron mines, coal fields, ports, and the industries we are developing,” she said.

The President also announced that the Higher Education Students’ Loans Board (HESLB) is expanding its funding capacity to ensure that all qualified students can pursue higher education, regardless of their family background. She added that significant investments in water supply aim to provide safe and clean water while developing irrigation schemes to boost both food and cash crop production.

“Water is no longer for domestic use only. We are investing in irrigation so that farmers can harvest twice a year, ensuring food security and strengthening agribusiness,” she said.

On energy, President Samia reiterated her government’s commitment to ensuring universal access to reliable and clean electricity. “We have taken electricity to villages and hamlets nationwide.

Access to power means safety, opportunity, and progress,” she told the cheering crowd. Empowering citizens economically President Samia underscored the government’s focus on lowering production costs through agricultural subsidies, which have enabled farmers to increase both yields and profits.

“Without subsidies, farmers would buy less fertiliser and harvest less. Now they pay half the price, produce more, and sell more — that is what genuine economic empowerment looks like,” she said.

She added that local councils’ 10 percent funds, TASAF, and other empowerment initiatives continue to provide affordable loans and opportunities for small-scale entrepreneurs. “We are building markets and bus terminals because they are vital business hubs.

When people have access to capital and space to trade, we empower them economically,” she noted. The President highlighted ongoing support for livestock keepers through subsidised vaccines and free distribution of poultry, as well as tax relief measures for coffee farmers.

“Today, coffee farmers receive full payments directly into their pockets without unnecessary deductions. We will continue identifying more areas where we can offer support,” she pledged.

Building productive sectors and infrastructure President Samia emphasised that the government’s broader goal is to build a resilient economy driven by agriculture, industry, and infrastructure. “Roads, ports, airports, and marine transport form the backbone of our economy.

We are constructing tarmac roads and improving the Kemondo and Bukoba ports to promote trade and transport,” she said. She added that the CCM manifesto prioritises industrial clusters in every district to increase the value of agricultural and fishery products.

“We are providing fishermen with loans for fish cages and boats to boost production. The fish will be processed locally and exported using Air Tanzania’s cargo planes,” she explained.

President Samia also vowed to revive coffee processing industries to ensure farmers benefit from value-added exports. “We must stop selling raw coffee.

Let’s process it here so that the farmer earns more. That is how we raise household incomes,” she said.

Local progress and citizens’ requests Responding to requests from Karagwe residents, President Samia pledged to prioritise the construction of new markets, bus terminals, and cold storage facilities for crops such as avocados. “We are implementing a nationwide programme to build cold storage facilities in key agricultural zones to reduce post-harvest losses,” she said.

She urged Karagwe residents to maintain their trust in CCM, assuring them that her administration would continue delivering tangible progress. “We have done well, and if given another mandate, we will do even better,” she declared to loud applause.

Ngara parliamentary candidate Dotto Bahemu lauded President Samia’s leadership, saying the constituency had witnessed remarkable improvements in health and education. He cited the construction of a new district hospital, three additional health centres worth over Sh3 billion, and the increase in dispensaries from 45 to 50. “When President Samia took office, Ngara had only one district hospital.

Today, we are seeing real change. She has turned promises into action,” he said.

Bahemu added that secondary schools in the area have grown from 25 to 31, with more than Sh7.9 billion invested in education. “Under her leadership, Ngara has received Sh81 billion for various development projects.

We have seen what she has done — and we know the kind of leader we want is Samia,” he declared .

Dar es Salaam. The 2025 Tanzanian National Rally Championship (NRC) is heading toward a dramatic conclusion, with three drivers, Ahmed Huwel, Randeep Singh, and Waleed Nahdi locked in a tense battle for the title ahead of the Guru Nanak Rally, scheduled for next month.

After four exhilarating rounds, Huwel of Iringa leads the standings with 105 points, followed by Singh of Dar es Salaam on 88 points, while Nahdi sits third with 80 points. The trio has dominated the season and remains in contention for the ultimate silverware, setting the stage for a fiercely competitive finale.

According to NRC regulations, the winner of the final leg will be awarded 30 points, with the runner-up earning 25 points, and points continuing to drop progressively for subsequent finishers. That structure keeps the title mathematically open, though Huwel remains in a commanding position.

Huwel on the brink of history For Ahmed Huwel, this could be a landmark season. Having already clinched two major victories this year, in the Morogoro and Arusha’s NRC’s rounds.

Huwel needs only to finish the Guru Nanak Rally to reclaim the national title he first won in 2007. His consistent performances, including strong podium finishes earlier in the campaign, have given him a 17-point cushion over Singh. Driving a Toyota Yaris Gazoo, Huwel has symbolized the sport’s new technological chapter, challenging the long-standing dominance of Subaru and Mitsubishi cars.

A win or even a finish in the top five would be enough to confirm his championship triumph, officially ending the two-decade reign of the traditional rally giants. Singh eyes redemption For Randeep Singh, who currently stands second, the final round presents both opportunity and pressure.

The Mitsubishi Evo 9 driver must finish strongly in Arusha, preferably ahead of Huwel to keep his championship hopes alive. Should Huwel retire or fail to finish, Singh could snatch the title with a top-two result.

Singh’s season has been impressive, highlighted by consistent top-three finishes, including a solid performance in the second and fourth rounds. Known for his aggressive driving style and technical precision, Singh remains the biggest threat to Huwel’s bid for glory.

Nahdi still in the chase Meanwhile, Waleed Nahdi, sitting third with 80 points, remains an outside contender for the crown. Although he trails by 25 points, a victory at Guru Nanak combined with misfortune for both Huwel and Singh could propel him to an unlikely title.

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The recent chaos surrounding UDART in Dar es Salaam wasn’t just a transport meltdown–it was a masterclass in how to ruin a public-private partnership. This is a slow-motion collapse that everyone saw coming, yet no one stopped.

UDART was born with promise. Phase One of the bus rapid transit system which was meant to revolutionise urban mobility.

In 2016, UDART rolled out 200 buses from China’s Golden Dragon–12-metre and 18-metre low-floor units built for high-capacity transit. They were sleek.

Modern. Supposed to be the future.

But beneath the surface, the rot had already begun. The buses were designed to run on compressed natural gas (CNG)–cleaner, cheaper, and aligned with UDART’s business model.

But others had other plans. They ditched CNG and went for diesel, a move that instantly doubled operating costs.

UDART was doomed to fail from the beginning. The financial strain was compounded by fare disputes.

UDART proposed a much higher fare per passenger, arguing that it was necessary to cover costs and service its debt. The government, prioritising affordability, capped the fare at Sh600, later raising it to Sh700. But even this adjustment was insufficient.

With diesel costs soaring and operational inefficiencies mounting, cash flow became critically constrained. Yet the real haemorrhage came from revenue leakage.

Initially, fare collection was automated, ensuring transparency and minimising theft. But this system was abandoned in favour of manual cash collection–a move that made it possible for millions of shillings to disappear daily.

Then came the Jangwani disaster. In 2020, the Jangwani Depot–UDART’s main maintenance and parking facility–was flooded, disabling approximately 70 buses in a single event.

The depot’s location in a known flood-prone area raised serious questions about due diligence. But what’s more alarming is that these buses weren’t revived.

Technically, flooded buses can be salvaged. Tow them out.

Dry them. Flush the electrical systems.

Replace fluids. Typically, the cost would have been around $15,000 per bus.

For 70 buses, the total would have been about $1 million–roughly 10 percent of the cost of procuring new ones. Yet no action was taken.

Thus, UDART’s financial health deteriorated rapidly. An estimated Sh150 billion loan from NMB Bank ballooned into a Sh250 billion debt burden.

The company failed to pay dues to the TPA, which blocked the clearance of newly imported buses meant to revive the service. With only 30 buses left operational, UDART could no longer generate enough revenue to service its loans or maintain basic operations.

The company was functionally insolvent. Eventually, the government was forced to act.

Public outrage reached a boiling point, and transport paralysis became a political liability. The Prime Minister toured the network, promising change.

In a bid to stabilise the situation, 60 MOFAT buses (a new operator) were redirected to UDART, raising the operational fleet to 90–still less than half the original capacity. Finally, the government brought new leaders for UDART and DART management teams.

Yet even this intervention raises uncomfortable questions. UDART is 85 percent owned by the government and 15 percent by the Simon Group.

On paper, it is a public entity. In practice, it operated like a private fiefdom.

Procurement decisions, fuel contracts, and revenue systems were all seemingly controlled by shadowy interests with little regard for public accountability. The governance model was flawed from the start.

This provides us with rich lessons on how to destroy PPPs. Make sure that there is no transparency whatsoever.

Allow conflicts of interest to flourish unchecked. Ensure systems that ascertain revenue integrity are abandoned.

Ignore asset management–no due diligence and no maintenance. And through it all, make sure that the government watches from the sidelines, intervening only when the crisis becomes a threat to political stability.

Wasn’t this the plan all along? The decline had been evident for years. So why were decision-makers waiting? For UDART to fail–so alternative plans could be rolled out? And now, with new leadership in place, isn’t UDART a poisoned chalice? Given the current situation, how is UDART going to turn itself around? The situation requires more than buses.

It needs structural reform. The new leadership must be given autonomy to implement a turnaround agenda without interference.

But they must also be held accountable: performance reports should be published and shared openly. Fare collection must be fully automated: no more manual leakages.

The fleet must return to CNG or transition to electric buses. Above all, public transport must be treated as a service: we cannot allow quality to deteriorate until the situation becomes a threat to politicians before we act.

UDART’s story is not just about broken buses. It’s about broken systems.

It is a story not just of misfortune but also of self-sabotage. And unless we change the rules of the game, even the best of people will find themselves in the same vicious cycle.

Charles Makakala is a Technology and Management Consultant based in Dar es Salaam .

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania’s CAF Champions League representatives, Young Africans (Yanga) and Simba SC, are set to depart today ahead of the first leg of the second preliminary round of the continental competition.

Yanga will travel to Lilongwe, Malawi, ahead of their clash against Silver Strikers FC on Saturday at 4:00 pm EAT, while Simba will head to Mbabane, Eswatini, to face Nsingizini Hotspurs on Sunday, also with a 4pm kickoff. These fixtures are crucial for both clubs as they aim to establish a strong position in the tie and increase their chances of qualifying for the group stage of the prestigious CAF Champions League.

Yanga’s squad will be without three key players, Pacome Zouzoua, Prince Dube, and Duke Abuya who are expected to rejoin the team upon arrival in Malawi. The trio had been away on national team duty during the FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Zouzoua featured for Ivory Coast, who defeated Kenya’s Harambee Stars 3-0 to secure World Cup qualification. Abuya was with Kenya, while Prince Dube represented Zimbabwe and will join Yanga from South Africa.

Players who will leave today includes Celestin Ecua and Lassine Kouma from Chad, as well as Bakari Mwamnyeto, Israel Mwenda, and Ibrahim “Bacca” Hamad from Tanzania’s Taifa Stars. Also making the trip are Dickson Job and Clement Mzize, whose participation in the match remains uncertain, as they are considered 50-50 for selection.

Meanwhile, Simba SC will travel with a full-strength squad, including players who were recently with their national teams. This includes Ugandan striker Steven Mukwala and Moussa Camara of Guinea.

Morris Abraham, Yusuph Kagoma, and Wilson Nangu, who were with the Taifa Stars, have rejoined Simba ahead of the match. The team is expected to arrive in Mbabane ready to stake an early advantage in the tie.

Both Tanzanian giants are determined to make a strong start in the second preliminary round. .

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania’s National Food Reserve Agency (NFRA) has opened a public tender worth at least S62.4 billion for the sale of non-GMO grains, as the country positions itself to benefit from strong regional demand for cereals.

The October 2025 tender covers a total of 534,000 tonnes of grain, including 500,000 tonnes of maize priced at a minimum of Sh850,000 per tonne, and 34,000 tonnes of paddy rice set at Sh1.1 million per tonne. According to a statement by the agency, submissions are open until December 30, 2025, and the offer targets both local millers and international buyers.

If sold at the minimum floor prices, the NFRA could raise more than S25 billion from maize sales and Sh37.4 billion from rice, equivalent to S62.4 billion in total. NFRA’s chief executive officer Dr Andrew Komba, said the sale is part of the agency’s regular market operations aimed at maintaining the quality of its reserves and ensuring continued liquidity for future purchases.

“It’s a normal practice for us to sell because when grain stocks sit in storage for too long, they risk spoilage,” Dr. Komba told The Citizen.

“We must therefore sell and replenish with new stock. Tanzania currently has abundant grain supplies, which allows us to manage this process confidently,” he said.

Dr Komba added: “This year, we plan to purchase about 300,000 tonnes of new grain from farmers, and next year that volume could rise to over 600,000 tonnes, depending on the harvest and market conditions”. “Our sales cover both domestic and export markets.

External demand continues to grow. For instance, last year, when we sold about 300,000 tonnes, nearly 250,000 tonnes were bought by foreign buyers, while 50,000 tonnes were absorbed locally.

We expect this trend to continue as regional demand strengthens — and we have enough food to supply both local and external markets.” The release follows a period of stable food supply and favorable harvests across major producing zones, including Rukwa, Ruvuma, and Songwe.

The agency’s large-scale tender also reflects confidence in the upcoming planting season, with the next harvest cycle expected to replenish national reserves by mid-2026. For local millers and traders, the offer provides a rare opportunity to access government stockpiles at predictable, transparent prices. For regional importers — particularly those facing grain shortfalls due to erratic weather patterns — Tanzania’s sale could offer much-needed relief.

Exporters are expected to show strong interest in the maize component, given the country’s proximity to deficit markets and the continuing ban on genetically modified grain imports in Kenya. While the tender is seen as a proactive market move, it also comes against a backdrop of Tanzania’s strong external trade performance.

According to the Bank of Tanzania’s Monthly Economic Report for September 2025, goods exports rose 22.7 percent year-on-year to $9.89 billion in the year ending August, driven largely by agricultural commodities. Cereal exports, including maize and rice, surged 95.4 percent to $341.2 million, up from $174.6 million a year earlier.

At the same time, traditional export crops such as coffee, tobacco, and cashew nuts grew 28.3 percent to $1.41 billion, reflecting continued recovery in agricultural production. Despite rising export demand and higher prices for key staples, headline inflation remained low at 3.

4 percent in August, comfortably within the central bank’s 35 percent target band. Food inflation edged up slightly to 7.

7 percent from 7.6 percent in July, driven by rice and finger millet, but policymakers attributed the moderation to “stable food supplies” and prudent fiscal management.

With the October tender, the NFRA appears to be betting that stability will continue. The agency’s willingness to offload more than half a million tonnes suggests confidence that domestic reserves are adequate to cushion against future shocks.

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