Category: The Citizen

Dar es Salaam. Yas, in partnership with global technology leader Samsung, has announced the launch of the new Samsung Galaxy A07 and A17 smartphones in Tanzania, marking a significant step in advancing smartphone usage and digital connectivity across the country.

Through this collaboration, the Samsung Galaxy A07 and A17 are now available across all Yas Stores nationwide, each bundled with an exclusive annual data package from Yas – 78GB for the Galaxy A07 and 96GB for the Galaxy A17. The partnership aims to encourage more Tanzanians to own smartphones and take full advantage of the digital opportunities that come with reliable internet access. Speaking during the announcement,Mid-Segments and Youth Manager at YAS, Ms.

Ikunda Ngowi said the partnership reflects Yas’s commitment to increasing digital penetration and empowering communities through connectivity. “Our partnership with Samsung represents a shared vision – to accelerate smartphone adoption and drive digital inclusion across Tanzania.

By pairing Samsung’s trusted devices with our data offers, we are enabling more people to stay connected, informed, and engaged in today’s digital economy,” said On his part, Mgope Kiwanga, Head of Mobile Experience at Samsung Tanzania described the partnership as a milestone in expanding access to smart technology and enhancing the digital experiences for Tanzanians. “At Samsung, we believe technology should be within everyone’s reach.

Partnering with Yas allows us to bring high-quality smartphones closer to customers, supported by dependable connectivity. This collaboration is a step forward in promoting digital access and empowering more people to connect and thrive in the modern world,” said Mr.

Kimwaga. The partnership leverages Yas’s extensive retail network to make Samsung’s latest smartphones widely accessible while offering customers genuine devices, technical assistance, and after-sales support.

The Samsung Galaxy A07 (4GB + 64GB) is priced at Sh350,000 and comes with 78GB of annual data, while the Samsung Galaxy A07 (4GB + 128GB) retails at Sh380,000 with the same 78GB annual data offer. The Samsung Galaxy A17 (4GB + 64GB) and A17 (4GB + 128GB) priced at S50,000 and Sh550,000 respectively includes 96GB of annual data.

With this initiative, Yas continues to position itself as a digital enabler, supporting Tanzania’s national digital transformation agenda by expanding access to connectivity, digital tools, and technology that enhances everyday life. .

Dar es Salaam. The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has officially handed over a wall mural to the Mwananyamala Regional Referral Hospital as part of its Wellness Art Initiative, a programme designed to promote mental and emotional wellbeing while strengthening the social bond between patients, health workers, and the surrounding community.

Speaking during the handover ceremony held on October 16, 2025 in Dar es Salaam, Japan’s Ambassador to Tanzania, Mr Asano Seizaburo, said the initiative aims to transform hospital spaces into friendlier, more welcoming environments that offer comfort and reassurance to patients through artistic expression. “We want to enhance patient satisfaction, improve communication between clients and health workers, boost the morale of health personnel, and ease the anxiety of patients receiving treatment in hospitals,” said Mr Seizaburo.

The Ambassador explained that similar projects have been implemented in various settings — including hospitals, schools, and orphanages — with the goal of improving the environments where children and communities live and interact. “We want hospitals to be places of comfort, hope, and calm.

Art has the power to touch hearts and help patients feel better,” he added. Mr Seizaburo further noted that the initiative marks the first collaboration between Japanese and Tanzanian artists, who have blended their cultural and artistic creativity to produce murals carrying messages of hope and healing.

On behalf of the hospital, Medical Officer in Charge of Mwananyamala Regional Referral Hospital, Dr Aileen Barongo, expressed her gratitude to JICA, describing the Wellness Art Initiative as an innovative form of therapy that can support patients, particularly children and mothers in maternity wards. “The appearance of a hospital ward can psychologically help a patient recover faster.

When a child or patient sees bright colours and artistic images, their fear of being in hospital diminishes and they begin to feel safe,” said Dr Barongo. She added that the initiative also reflects the long-standing partnership of over ten years between JICA and Mwananyamala Hospital through various technical cooperation projects aimed at strengthening health services.

Japanese artist, Ms Lulu Kouno, who painted the mural, said she has spent more than a decade creating wall art for children in hospitals, schools, and orphanages around the world. “When I travelled to different countries, I realised that many children had little or no access to art or storybooks.

When I returned to Japan, I saw how children there had so many opportunities to enjoy art. It made me feel the world was not fair to all children, and I decided to use art to bring them happiness wherever they are,” said Ms Kouno.

Tanzanian artist from Tingatinga Art, Ms Agness Mwidadi Mpata, said working alongside a Japanese artist provided her with a new experience in colour blending and creative mural design. “I am certain these murals will offer a different kind of therapy beyond medicine, especially for children and mothers in the hospital,” she said.

Meanwhile, Marketing Officer for PLASCON Paints Tanzania Ltd, Mr Hussain Haji, revealed that the murals were painted using Japanese-engineered paints designed with mosquito-repellent technology, helping to prevent mosquito bites and reduce the risk of infection in hospital wards. “These paints are produced with advanced Japanese technology that prevents mosquitoes from entering or biting patients in rooms painted with them,” explained Mr Haji.

The partners expressed optimism that the Wellness Art Initiative will create a lasting positive impact on patients, healthcare workers, and the community — while further strengthening the warm and friendly relations between Tanzania and Japan through creativity, compassion, and the pursuit of human wellbeing. .

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. As Tanzania edges closer to the October 29 General Election, political parties have intensified their door-to-door campaigns, a strategy widely regarded as among the most effective ways to reach undecided voters.

The official campaign period began on August 28 and will end on October 28, marking two months of heightened political activity across the country. From the crowded streets of Dar es Salaam to the quiet rural villages of Kagera, candidates and their agents are going house to house, speaking directly to voters and persuading them to support their parties.

The approach is commended for taking politics to the people’s doorsteps, creating space for dialogue and direct interaction. However, it has also raised concerns over the potential for bribery and other unethical practices, which are more difficult to detect in private spaces than in public rallies.

The Director of Prevention at the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB), Ms Sabina Seja, told The Citizen that the bureau is fulfilling its legal mandate through three key interventions–education, investigation and enforcement. “The PCCB carries out its responsibilities to prevent and combat corruption through public awareness, investigations, and action against those involved in corrupt practices,” she said.

She added that while door-to-door campaigns are not illegal, they fall outside any specific legal framework that allows for oversight. “The PCCB cannot prevent people from visiting one another, and it is not possible to know whether acts of corruption take place during such visits,” she said.

Ms Seja explained that the bureau focuses on public education and preventive action. “Our main role is to educate citizens through short text messages, media broadcasts, and investigative measures aimed at identifying and curbing corruption,” she said, urging Tanzanians to reject any inducements during campaigns.

Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) Deputy Secretary General for Mainland Tanzania, Mr John Mongella, said the ruling party’s door-to-door campaign is centred on connecting with citizens, listening to their needs, and explaining policy priorities. “Our door-to-door approach is about listening to people, not bribing them,” he said.

“We have the widest grassroots network in the country, and we don’t need to buy trust. We earn it through performance and consistency.

Anyone caught offering inducements does so outside the party’s principles and will face disciplinary action.” ACT-Wazalendo Secretary General, Mr Ado Shaibu, also defended the strategy, saying it allows candidates to have meaningful, two-way conversations that large rallies rarely achieve.

“Not everyone who attends rallies does so for politics. Some go for entertainment.

But when you visit someone’s home, you have their full attention. You can discuss policy issues, the cost of living, and people’s daily challenges,” he said.

He dismissed allegations that door-to-door campaigning encourages bribery. “Our strength lies in ideas, not money.

We train our members to win hearts and minds, not votes through gifts. Tanzanians are ready to vote based on issues, not envelopes,” he added.

Civic United Front (CUF) Deputy Secretary General, Ms Magdalena Sakaya, noted that smaller parties depend heavily on personal interaction to reach voters who might otherwise be left out. “For smaller parties, the playing field is uneven.

Big parties can afford large rallies and national media coverage, but others rely on personal engagement. Door-to-door campaigns are not just strategy–they are survival,” she said, acknowledging that the method can be abused if agents lack discipline.

“When you campaign in private spaces, monitoring becomes difficult. For CUF, our message is our only currency,” she said.

NCCR-Mageuzi Deputy Chairperson for Mainland, Mr Joseph Selasini, said the method helps restore trust between politicians and the electorate. “People are tired of being shouted at from podiums.

They want leaders who visit their homes and listen to their problems,” he said. “But proximity also demands discipline.

We have instructed all our candidates to avoid any behaviour that could be interpreted as bribery.” Political analysts, however, urge caution.

Professor Makame Ali Ussi from the State University of Zanzibar said the intimacy of door-to-door visits can build strong emotional connections but also obscure transparency. “When someone comes into your home and speaks your language, it builds trust–but what happens behind closed doors is difficult to verify,” he noted.

He added that in Tanzania’s social culture, small gestures such as giving sugar, cooking oil or transport money can easily be misconstrued. “Such actions may be seen as generosity, but in an election context, they could constitute bribery,” he said.

Dr Onesmo Kyauke of the University of Dar es Salaam described the door-to-door strategy as a “double-edged sword” that is especially beneficial for smaller parties but exposes them to scrutiny. “It allows candidates to reach more voters personally, but it also opens them up to accusations of vote buying,” he said.

Dr Kyauke advised parties to invest in training campaign agents on ethics and transparency. “If managed well, door-to-door campaigns can be the cleanest form of politics,” he added.

Dr Paul Loisulie from the University of Dodoma said the rise of personalised campaigning reflects democratic maturity. “We are moving away from rally politics to relational politics–where engagement replaces spectacle,” he said.

“But this power must be used responsibly. A handshake should never be followed by an envelope.

” .

Arusha. The East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) has elected the inaugural leadership of the East African Parliamentary Network Against Corruption (EAPNAC), marking a major milestone in the regional fight for transparency, integrity, and accountability within the East African Community (EAC).

The elections, held on Tuesday, October 14, during a plenary session in Arusha, brought together Members of the Assembly representing all seven EAC Partner States. Rwandan legislator Clement Musangabatware was elected as the first President of EAPNAC, with Kurgat Zipporah Jesang Kering from Kenya chosen as Deputy President.

Babirye Veronica kadogo from Uganda will serve as Treasurer, while Dr Jogo Woda Jeremiah Odok from South Sudan was elected Secretary General. In addition, national Focal Persons–Chapter Representatives–were appointed to coordinate EAPNAC activities in their respective countries.

They include Dr Gladness Salema (Tanzania), Mugyenyi Mary Rutamwebwa (Uganda), Kalonzo Kennedy Musyoka (Kenya), Matthias Harebamungu (Rwanda), Nkurunziza Olivier (Burundi), Ngate Mangu Franaois (DR Congo), and Ayason Mukulia Kennedy (South Sudan). Following his election, Mr Musangabatware expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and vowed to lead the network with integrity and inclusiveness.

“EAPNAC will continue to be a strong voice in ensuring that public resources are managed responsibly and that transparency and integrity remain central to the East African Community’s development agenda,” he said. “We must work collectively to build systems that prevent corruption, hold leaders accountable, and restore public confidence in our institutions.

” He further underscored the importance of collaboration with national parliaments, anti-corruption agencies, civil society, and development partners in fostering a more transparent and accountable region. Established to unite legislators from all EAC Partner States in the fight against corruption, EAPNAC serves as a platform for advocacy, ethical leadership, and governance reform.

The network has been instrumental in strengthening legislative capacity and promoting good governance across the region. The election of its first Executive Committee marks a new chapter for EAPNAC, with the leadership expected to intensify advocacy, strengthen oversight, and accelerate the implementation of regional anti-corruption frameworks within the EAC.

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Dar es Salaam. Airtel Money Tanzania has initiated a strategic collaboration with the Cereals and Other Produce Regulatory Authority (COPRA) aimed at deepening digital financial inclusion within the agricultural sector.

The engagement seeks to empower farmers and agribusiness stakeholders with easier, safer access to digital financial services–enhancing efficiency, transparency, and growth across Tanzania’s agricultural value chains. Airtel Money Tanzania Managing Director Andrew Rugambo said the partnership reflects the company’s commitment to transforming agriculture through financial technology.

“We believe digital financial technology is a catalyst for agricultural transformation. Through our engagement with COPRA, we aim to make financial services more accessible to farmers, promote transparency in payments, and drive economic growth through digital innovation,” he said.

COPRA Chief Executive Officer Irene Madeje Mlola noted that the collaboration would help streamline transactions, protect farmers’ funds, and strengthen their integration into formal financial systems. “This partnership will improve efficiency in agricultural value chains and enhance farmers’ participation in the digital economy,” she said.

The initiative reinforces Airtel Money’s broader agenda to advance inclusive growth and financial empowerment for Tanzania’s farming communities. .

Dar es Salaam. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has called for urgent and collective efforts to address shifting global development and financing trends that could affect Tanzania’s ambitious Vision 2050. Speaking at a high-level forum organised by the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) Tanzania yesterday, the ministry’s director of Multilateral Affairs, Mr Noel Kaganda, underscored the stark imbalance in global spending priorities.

“While over $2.7 trillion is spent annually on security worldwide, only a small fraction of that amount could end hunger and provide essential healthcare for all,” he said. The forum, convened in collaboration with the government and key development partners, brought together senior government officials, private sector leaders, diplomats, and civil society representatives to discuss innovative financing strategies to support Tanzania’s long-term development goals.

Discussions centred on practical approaches to mobilising resources through domestic revenue generation, public-private partnerships, foreign direct investment, and innovative financing tools such as municipal and green bonds. These, participants said, are key to funding projects that promote climate resilience, infrastructure, financial inclusion, and clean energy.

UN Resident Coordinator Ms Susan Nyamondo cited the Tanga UWASA Water Green Bond as a successful example of how innovative financing mechanisms can help accelerate the country’s development priorities. National Planning Commission Executive Director Dr Fred Msemwa highlighted the crucial role of the private sector under the Dira 2050 framework, with the government serving as an enabler and risk mitigator.

Representatives from the Swedish Embassy and Gatsby Africa also emphasised the need for coordinated development efforts that leverage Tanzania’s unique competitive advantages instead of pursuing fragmented initiatives. UNCDF showcased several ongoing projects demonstrating tangible impact across different sectors, reinforcing the importance of unified collaboration among the government, private sector, and development partners in turning Vision 2050 into reality.

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By January Makamba In December 2007, as an election enthusiast, I travelled to Nairobi to witness the final days of one of Kenya’s most fiercely contested elections. I attended several rallies, but none were as electric as those of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), especially when its candidate, Raila Odinga, took the stage and launched into his signature dance – simple, rhythmic steps that sent his loyal supporters into a joyful trance.

I was determined to meet this phenomenon, but securing an appointment proved difficult amidst the chaos of the campaign’s final stretch. The election was set for December 27, and by the 23rd, I still hadn’t succeeded.

Then, on the evening of Christmas Eve, I received a call from a new intermediary with an unexpected message: “Baba will have breakfast with you tomorrow at his house.” I was stunned.

Tomorrow was Christmas Day – could a presidential candidate, just days before an election, really have time for a stranger at his home? Yet I was told to be ready for pickup at 7 a.m.

I later learned that Raila agreed to meet me for three reasons: I was from Tanzania; he trusted the gentleman who made the request; and, most of all, his boundless curiosity and genuine interest in people, regardless of their stature. I arrived at his driveway just before 8 a.

m. and found him already active and alert, as if his day had begun hours earlier.

We shared a warm breakfast with Mama Ida graciously serving. Despite running against a powerful state machinery only days before the vote, Raila radiated an unexpected calmness and normalcy that deeply impressed me.

Our conversation revolved around his affection for Tanzania and Kiswahili, his admiration for Julius Nyerere, his dream of a more united East Africa and continent – and, quite endearingly, about me and my own aspirations. I wanted to discuss politics, the campaign, and his fiery rhetoric; he wanted to treat me as an honoured Christmas guest.

That’s exactly what happened. I left with mixed feelings – regret that I hadn’t discussed the election, but joy that, for that morning, I felt like the most important person in his life.

Before I left, he freely gave me his personal number. That encounter left me with a lasting impression: whatever one may think of his politics, Raila’s humanity was unquestionable.

Somehow, he always found time – and genuine attention – for everyone. My second encounter with Raila came in 2014. I had been drawn into the frenzy of seeking my party’s nomination for the presidency.

Despite my age, I made a serious effort, grounded in clear and practical ideas for my country’s progress. As an elder statesman of the region – and a serial candidate – Raila was someone I deeply wished to consult for advice.

This time, it was not difficult to secure a meeting. He was then not on good terms with the government but received me warmly for a private audience.

We spoke at length about resilience, conviction-driven politics, and the mechanics of mass mobilisation. At one point, he called a friend whom he thought could also assist me.

A gentleman at his home took a photo of us. By the time I reached my hotel, my phone was buzzing – friends from both home and Kenya were calling.

The photo had been posted on Raila’s Facebook page, captioned to suggest that I had called on him as a Special Envoy of the President of Tanzania to deliver a message. It nearly turned into a diplomatic incident.

I managed the situation quietly – not by publicly contradicting Raila’s narrative, but by making the right phone calls. To their credit, Raila’s team took down the post and reposted with a harmless caption.

That experience taught me that, when in “war footing,” Raila’s team would brook no protocol in defending and elevating their leader’s image. They considered me fair collateral in service of their mission to show that Raila remained a sought-after figure by regional leaders.

It was, in truth, a testament to his leadership — that he inspired such fierce loyalty among long-serving aides who often believed that consulting him during battle might risk precious time. My last encounter with Raila was in June last year, during his campaign for the Chairmanship of the African Union Commission (AUC).

Tanzania had agreed to President Ruto’s request to support Raila’s candidacy, and as Foreign Minister, part of my duty was to ensure that our support was both genuine and impactful. Yet, in my conversations with colleagues across the continent, I sensed that the confidence Nairobi projected did not reflect the quiet hesitation many expressed privately.

I reached out to two people in Kenya: my good friend David Osiany, close to the Odinga family, to share my concerns; and the respected leader Hon. Musalia Mudavadi, to suggest we do more to strengthen regional backing.

I proposed that Raila be invited to a retreat of Foreign and EAC Ministers I was hosting in Zanzibar, so he could personally make his case to our colleagues. He accepted, attended, and charmed everyone present – a consummate politician and a gracious guest.

I reiterated Tanzania’s unequivocal support for him. From that meeting, I learned that part of Raila’s humanity lay in his enduring belief in the goodness and sincerity of others.

Even after decades in politics, having seen every shade of human character, he still approached people with childlike faith and warmth. Raila Odinga was a political phenomenon – deeply loyal to his people, and in turn, loved with equal devotion.

He loved Kenya. He loved Tanzania.

He loved Africa. He welcomed everyone – even a stranger to his breakfast table on Christmas Day.

My deepest condolences to Mama Ida Odinga, their children, and the entire Odinga family – and to the great people of Kenya. May his soul rest in eternal peace .

Dar es Salaam. On a typical morning or even afternoon outside several government offices, a crowd gathers, waiting for services.

But not everyone is allowed in. Visitors wearing casual clothes are stopped at the entrance, unable to access the services they need.

For many, this could mean turning back or losing precious time. However, that is where a quiet but growing business has stepped in: roadside rental services for formal attire, allowing citizens to comply with dress codes and continue with their errands almost immediately.

For instance, near offices of the Ministry of Home Affairs and the main national immigration offices, operators stand at the edge of the street, signaling potential customers with gestures. A person turned away from an office only needs to notice a wave or a beckoning hand to find a solution just steps away.

Normally, men can rent a shirt or trousers for Sh3,000 each, or a full set for Sh5,000. Women can rent a baibui (Muslim women dress) for Sh3,000, while a complete outfit including skirt, blouse, headscarf, and shoes goes for Sh5,000. Customers remove their casual clothing, slip into the rented attire, and enter the office to complete their business. Once finished, the rental clothes are returned and the original garments reclaimed.

For many, the service is more than just practical, it is a lifesaver. Mary Peter, 34, a government employee, described her first experience using the service.

“I had an appointment I could not miss. I was wearing casual clothes, and I was turned away.

A man on the roadside signaled me to come and rent a shirt and trousers. Within minutes I was back at the office, dressed properly, and able to complete my work.

It saved me a lot of time and stress,” she said. Joachim Juma, 29, a small business owner, echoed her praise.

“It is practical and straightforward,” he said. “I don’t need to exchange phone numbers or make appointments.

I just rent what I need, finish my business, and return the clothes. It’s a quick, hassle-free solution.

” Yet, not everyone sees the arrangement as risk-free. Amina Said, 31, expressed concerns about hygiene.

“Wearing clothes that others have used may be convenient, but it can also be risky,” she said. “If they are not properly cleaned, it could lead to skin problems.

” A dermatologist at Bugando Medical Centre in Mwanza, Dr Salma Nyambo, agreed. “Shared clothing can transmit fungal infections or other skin conditions if not disinfected properly,” she said.

She added: “While the service is useful, users should be cautious and operators should maintain strict hygiene standards.” Sociologists have also weighed in, pointing to a need for public education, lecturer at the Saint Augustine University of Tanzania (SAUT), Ms Linah Kabula shared that citizens should be well-informed and educated about what attire is required in government offices.

“When people know what is expected, they can prepare in advance and avoid unnecessary stops at rental services. It also reduces potential health risks and makes the whole process smoother for both citizens and operators,” he said.

Along the roadside, at various points just a few steps from the offices, the operators wait patiently, sometimes near small shops, stationeries, or roadside chips stands, ready to guide anyone in need of formal clothing. Jamal Hassan leans on a wooden crate, squinting at the crowd outside the Ministry of Home Affairs, small office in Dar es Salaam: “You see them?” he says, nodding toward a man turned away at the gate.

“They hesitate for a second, then they spot us. A shirt, some trousers, and they’re back inside.

No calls, no complications. That’s the beauty of it.

” A few meters down, Fatma Mohamed folds a skirt with care, her eyes following a young woman hesitating near the office. “Some people are embarrassed,” she says softly.

“But when they come over, we help quickly. Minutes later, they’re smiling, back at their appointments.

I like seeing that relief on their faces–it makes the work worthwhile.” Near the immigration main offices in Dar es Salaam, Salma Yusuf gestures fluidly with her hand toward a small group waiting outside.

“It’s just a signal,” she says, laughing lightly. “A little wave, and they know where to come.

They rent what they need, sort out their business, and return it. Everyone leaves happy.

” Ahmed Ramadhani, stacking neatly folded baibuis, adds, “It’s simple, honest work. People get what they need, we earn a living, and no one has to worry about extra arrangements.

It’s satisfying to know we make life a little easier for them.” .