Category: The Citizen

Media shapes our understanding of the world. It tells stories, highlights events, and frames narratives that influence how we see ourselves and others.

Yet, amid the constant flow of news, entertainment, and social media, certain voices are consistently under-represented or worse, invisible. These are the faces you don’t see, the communities and individuals whose stories rarely make it to the headlines, screens, or trending feeds.

Representation, or the lack thereof, is not just a cultural issue it is a societal one. Representation in media matters because it validates existence.

When people see themselves reflected on screen, in print, or online, it sends a powerful message: “You belong. Your story matters.

” Conversely, absence from media narratives can contribute to marginalisation. In Tanzania, for example, rural communities, persons with disabilities, women in certain sectors, and ethnic minorities often receive minimal coverage unless there is a crisis or scandal.

Their everyday struggles, achievements, and perspectives are rarely highlighted, leaving the public with an incomplete understanding of the society they live in. One critical area where representation is lacking is gender.

Women continue to be under-represented in newsrooms and on-screen roles, particularly in positions of authority or expertise. When women are visible in media, they are often portrayed through narrow stereotypes focused on appearance, domesticity, or secondary roles.

Such portrayals perpetuate limited societal expectations and diminish the contributions women make in business, politics, science, and culture. Representation is not about tokenism; it is about fairness, accuracy, and inclusivity in storytelling.

Youth representation is another concern. While young people are often portrayed as trend-followers, social media addicts, or troublemakers, their active roles in social change, innovation, and civic engagement rarely make it into mainstream narratives.

In reality, young Tanzanians are leading initiatives in entrepreneurship, climate action, and digital innovation, yet these efforts seldom receive consistent media attention. Failing to showcase positive youth contributions not only misrepresents society but also deprives younger audiences of role models who reflect their potential.

Media representation also extends to marginalised groups such as persons with disabilities. Far too often, these individuals are depicted through a lens of pity or charity, rather than as active participants in society.

Stories focus on their challenges but rarely on their achievements, skills, or agency. This lack of balanced portrayal reinforces societal barriers and deepens stereotypes, creating a cycle of invisibility and exclusion.

Cultural and ethnic diversity in media is another area demanding attention. Tanzania is home to over 120 ethnic groups, each with unique traditions, languages, and histories.

Yet media coverage often prioritises urban-centric or dominant cultural narratives. Traditional practices, local art, and rural experiences are under-reported, leading to a skewed perception of what it means to be Tanzanian.

By failing to reflect this rich diversity, media limits public understanding and contributes to cultural homogenisation. The consequences of poor representation are profound.

Media not only reflects society but shapes it. It influences public opinion, policy priorities, and social norms.

When certain groups remain invisible, their needs, perspectives, and contributions are overlooked. Representation is therefore a matter of social justice, giving voice to those who might otherwise be unheard.

The good news is that positive change is possible. Media organisations can take deliberate steps to improve representation.

This includes diversifying newsroom staff, engaging with communities, and actively seeking out under-represented voices. Content creators can highlight stories from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that media is inclusive and reflective of the society it serves.

Moreover, audiences play a role by demanding inclusive coverage, supporting diverse creators, and critically evaluating the narratives they consume, they help drive systemic change. Representation is not merely about filling gaps; it is about creating a media landscape where all members of society see themselves accurately and respectfully.

It is about challenging stereotypes, celebrating diversity, and building a more informed and inclusive public dialogue. The faces you don’t see in media are not absent–they are waiting to be acknowledged, valued, and amplified.

Ensuring their visibility is not just good journalism–it is essential for a fair and equitable society. In conclusion, representation in media is a reflection of societal values.

By addressing who is seen, how they are portrayed, and whose stories are told, media has the power to shape a more inclusive and empathetic society. For Tanzanian media, the challenge and the opportunity lies in bringing those hidden faces into the spotlight.

After all, a society that sees all its members clearly is a society that truly understands itself. Angel Navuri is Head of Advertising, Partnerships and Events at Mwananchi Communications Limited .

Dar es Salaam. Tanzanian journalist Julius Maricha of The Citizen newspaper has been named second runner-up in the African Growth Story category at the 2024 Sanlam Group Awards for Excellence in Financial Journalism.

The prestigious ceremony took place in South Africa on October 2, 2025, celebrating Maricha’s outstanding storytelling in portraying Africa’s evolving economic landscape. A certificate signed by Sanlam Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr Paul Hanratty, commended Maricha’s “vibrant journalism,” noting that it plays “an instrumental role in telling the story of economic growth and development on the African continent.

” Established in 1974, the Sanlam Awards mark their 50th anniversary this year, honouring exceptional financial journalists across print, broadcast, and online platforms throughout Africa. With a total prize pool exceeding R700,000 (approximately Sh105 million), the awards recognise excellence in reporting on business, economic challenges, and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues.

Jointly sponsored by Sanlam and Santam, this year’s awards attracted entries from across the continent, celebrating journalistic excellence that highlights Africa’s resilience and innovation. Maricha’s achievement places him among a select group of journalists capturing both the opportunities and challenges shaping Africa’s growth story.

At The Citizen, a leading English-language daily known for its robust business and development coverage, he has gained recognition for crafting compelling features that connect local experiences to continental trends. This latest honour adds to Maricha’s growing list of accolades.

In May 2025, he was recognised at the inaugural Samia Kalamu Awards, organised by the Tanzania Media Women’s Association (Tamwa) in partnership with the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA). President Samia Suluhu Hassan personally presented him with the National Special Award for Best Journalist in Clean Cooking Energy Reporting, acknowledging his reporting on sustainable energy solutions benefiting rural communities.

Reflecting on his recognition, Maricha said: “To be honoured by Africa’s longest-running financial journalism awards is a profound privilege. Being recognised in the African Growth Story category carries deep patriotic meaning–it highlights Tanzania’s economic and business progress on an international stage.

” Mwananchi Communications Limited Executive Editor Mpoki Thomson congratulated him, saying: “Maricha’s recognition reflects our dedication to impactful journalism that addresses issues of public importance across multiple sectors. We are proud of his achievements and confident he will continue to shine beyond Tanzania.

” Maricha, who covers business, clean energy, lifestyle, politics, and gender, is also nominated for Best Tanzania Global Journalist at the Lecturer Awards Tanzania (November 2025) and Journalist of the Year Africa at the MVAA Awards in Nigeria on October 11, 2025. .

Meatu. Residents of Sakasaka Ward in Meatu District, Simiyu Region, have expressed fear and distress following repeated elephant invasions from Maswa Game Reserve, which have endangered lives, destroyed property and caused injuries and deaths.

Speaking to The Citizen’s sister publication, Mwananchi on October 5, 2025, locals said the problem has persisted for years, forcing some families to relocate to avoid attacks. Samson Mathias, a resident of Sakasaka village, said elephants often cross the reserve’s boundaries, raiding homes and farms.

“Elephants break houses, destroy crops, and even kill people. Some residents have moved away out of fear.

We urge the government to take urgent action,” he said. Ramadhani Said added that most attacks occur at night.

“We cannot sleep. When elephants invade, they destroy property and eat crops, and we have to chase them ourselves to reduce damage, which is dangerous,” he explained.

Mathias Nghumbu suggested erecting specialised fences to prevent elephants from entering settlements and recommended keeping bees around the reserve’s perimeter, a method proven effective elsewhere due to elephants’ fear of bees. CCM council candidate for Sakasaka Ward, Emanuel Maliganya, said elephant attacks have caused four deaths in the past five years.

“If elected for a second term, I will work with the government to find a permanent solution. Wildlife ranger posts are already being built, and local youth have received training to manage elephants safely,” he stated.

The Tanzania Wildlife Authority (Tawa) confirmed measures are underway, including increasing ranger patrols and installing equipment to track elephants leaving the reserve. Speaking on behalf of the Maswa Reserve warden, Omary Khalid, said: “We recognise the challenges facing Sakasaka residents.

We plan to increase patrols and strengthen collaboration between wildlife officers and neighbouring villages. We also encourage elephant-friendly methods, such as beekeeping and chilli farms.

” Tawa urged residents to report early signs of elephant movements so rangers can intervene promptly and reduce damage. Humanelephant conflict remains a major challenge in areas bordering reserves and wildlife conservation zones, with experts emphasising community involvement and wildlife-friendly prevention strategies as key to reducing clashes.

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Dodoma. Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) has outlined key achievements delivered by President Samia Suluhu Hassan during her four years in office, ahead of her campaign launch in the Lake Zone on September 7, 2025. Updating journalists on the campaign trail, CCM’s Secretary for Ideology, Publicity and Training, Mr Kinan Kihongosi, said flagship projects in the Lake Zone embody the party’s commitment to lasting development.

He cited the recently inaugurated KigongoBusisi Bridge, also known as the JPM Bridge, which was completed at a cost of over Sh700 billion. “This bridge is a symbol of progress.

It connects people, opens up trade, and stands as a testimony of our promise to deliver,” said Mr Kihongosi. He further noted investments in Lake Victoria’s transport and trade infrastructure, including the purchase of an ambulance boat to enhance healthcare services and a clean water project aimed at serving communities for generations.

Highlighting the fishing industry as a key economic driver for the Lake Zone, Mr Kihongosi said CCM’s manifesto commits to further initiatives over the next five years to benefit thousands of households. “Fishing is life for many families.

We have laid out concrete plans to boost the sector and secure better livelihoods,” he said. Providing statistics on the campaign so far, he revealed that 21 regions have hosted rallies, with 77 campaign meetings attracting more than 14.6 million participants, and a further 31.6 million people following online.

“The turnouts are impressive. They reflect the trust and confidence Tanzanians have in our presidential candidate.

We now call upon the people of the Lake Zone to come out in great numbers and hear directly from President Samia Suluhu Hassan,” said Mr Kihongosi. He praised the peaceful nature of the campaign, commending CCM supporters for their discipline and unity.

“Since the start of our campaign, our candidate has demonstrated dignity and responsibility. We must all safeguard the unity and peace that define our nation,” he stressed.

Mr Kihongosi reiterated that peace and harmony remain at the heart of CCM’s message. “Where there is peace, there is progress.

Choosing Samia means choosing peace, unity, love, and solidarity. That is what CCM stands for,” he affirmed.

He also emphasised the importance of educating younger generations about the nation’s development journey. “Many young people were born into an era of roads, schools, and services, but they may not understand the struggles it took to reach this stage.

We have a duty to teach history and remind everyone of our journey,” he said. Calling upon Lake Zone residents, he urged: “We invite everyone to be part of these historic campaign launches.

Together, we can protect our peace and strengthen our path of development.” .

Babati. The CCM presidential candidate, President Samia Suluhu Hassan, has reiterated her government’s commitment to ensuring that Manyara citizens equally benefit from development in key sectors such as internet access, agriculture, livestock keeping, and business opportunities.

President Hassan made the remarks on Saturday, October 4, 2025, during a campaign rally held in Babati District, Manyara Region. Addressing the rally, President Hassan said sectors like the internet, agriculture, livestock, and business are key components in driving local economies and improving livelihoods.

She also mentioned that such efforts “have been expanded through national development,” with education and schools receiving particular attention. “No one will be left behind.

We must all work together for collective progress,” she said, repeating the phrase “tasipana” several times during her address, calling for unity and shared responsibility. The ruling party’s presidential hopeful referred to the progress made in the tourism sector, noting that Tanzania has now reached five million tourist arrivals.

She said the figure was guided by the national development plan. Efforts will continue to attract more visitors to local destinations, further boosting the tourism sector’s growth.

“Tourism now contributes significantly, whether through honey or other resources,” said President Hassan, emphasising the need to continue promoting tourism-linked activities at the community level. In her speech, she also touched on water resource development, saying the government has already allocated funding to construct infrastructure that will address challenges in water access, particularly in lake regions, including Babati.

“This period may be slightly challenging, but we are moving forward. The government has disbursed funds for installing systems to manage water bodies, not only in Babati but across the lake regions,” she said.

President Hassan cited the current manifesto as a reference point for the plans being implemented in cooperation with local communities. “We must implement local strategies and development actions by working together with the people,” she stressed.

The rally in Babati was attended by party supporters, government officials, and residents from various parts of Manyara Region. The CCM parliamentary candidate for Babati Urban, Mr Emmanuel Khambay, pledged major reforms in the education sector and economic empowerment initiatives if elected in the upcoming general election.

He emphasised the need to modernise Tanzania’s education curriculum to meet current job market demands. “We must shift from outdated syllabuses and focus on practical skills that will empower our children to be employable or to employ themselves,” he said, adding that, unlike previous years, today’s youth must be given the tools to succeed in a rapidly evolving world.

Mr Khambay noted that the current curriculum does not fully prepare students for the realities of the job market. He stressed the importance of aligning education with technological advancements and modern-day challenges.

“This is no longer the era of theoretical learning alone. We must equip our youth with 21st-century knowledge and skills,” he said.

He promised to prioritise investment in infrastructure, including schools, health centres, and road networks, to unlock the region’s economic potential. “With better infrastructure and strong economic policies, the people of Babati will not only improve their living standards but also contribute meaningfully to national growth,” he said.

The rally, attended by hundreds of supporters, also featured remarks from the former Babati MP who served in the previous parliamentary term, Mr Christopher Ole Sendeka, who praised the people of Babati for their unity and resilience, urging them to remain focused on development. “We have had our share of challenges, but we have always stood together.

The people of Babati have shown unity, trust, and love for one another,” he said, insisting on the persistence of that spirit. Mr Sendeka endorsed Mr Khambay’s candidacy, expressing confidence in his leadership and vision for the constituency.

“I believe he has what it takes to bring progress to Babati Urban. Let us give him our full support,” he added.

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Music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs has been sentenced to 50 months in federal prison after being convicted on two counts of transporting individuals across state lines for prostitution. The ruling, delivered on Friday, October 3, 2025, by a Manhattan court, concludes a months-long trial that captivated the entertainment industry and the public alike.

Combs was arrested in September 2024 following a federal investigation into allegations of abuse, misconduct, and coercion, which culminated in his high-profile trial earlier this year. While acquitted of sex trafficking and racketeering charges, prosecutors argued that Combs’ abuse of power and pattern of exploitation warranted a harsh penalty.

They had sought a sentence of more than 11 years, but Judge Arun Subramanian imposed a term of just over four years. Addressing the court, Combs described his past behaviour as “shameful and sick” and pleaded for leniency.

The judge acknowledged his philanthropic work but stressed that fame and success cannot excuse criminal conduct. Alongside his prison term, Combs was fined $500,000 and ordered to serve five years of supervised release.

The sentence marks a dramatic fall for the Bad Boy Records founder, who built a multibillion-dollar empire spanning music, fashion, and media. Combs’ legal team has vowed to appeal, signalling that the case is far from over.

His conviction comes amid broader scrutiny of the entertainment industry over exploitation and abuse. Legal analysts say the ruling could have lasting implications, potentially influencing how courts handle cases involving high-profile figures and abuse of power.

Supporters of Combs expressed shock at the sentence, while victims’ rights advocates described it as a measure of justice. The trial also sparked wider debate about accountability for public figures, the influence of celebrity culture, and the law’s reach.

Combs, once considered one of the most influential figures in global entertainment, now faces a future defined by his conviction. As the appeal process begins, the case is certain to remain a major talking point within legal and cultural circles.

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Dar es Salaam. Tanzania will be represented by four young cyclists at the Grand Nairobi Jubilee ‘Live Free’ Race 2025, set for October 5 in Nairobi, Kenya.

Organised by Jubilee Insurance, the event promotes healthy living, youth empowerment, and regional sporting unity. The Grand Nairobi Jubilee ‘Live Free’ Race 2025 is among East Africa’s premier cycling events, attracting competitors from across the region.

For Tanzania it presents an important platform to strengthen the country’s cycling culture and allow emerging athletes to compete internationally. The Tanzanian contingent comprises three men and one woman, selected through a rigorous national process by the Tanzania Cycling Association (TCA).

The participants are Ms Asnat Moris, Mr Frank Marik, Mr Hassan Sharif, and Mr Waziri Masoli. The Talent Development Committee at TCA, Chairperson, Dr Judith Mashala, said the team was chosen from a wide pool of talent identified through competitions held over the past two years.

“We are sending four young cyclists to represent Tanzania at the Grand Nairobi Jubilee ‘Live Free’ Race 2025. Our association organises competitions across the country, and these cyclists have proven themselves as the most capable,” she said. She noted the athletes recently competed in Rwanda and are now intensively preparing for Nairobi.

“This race is not just about competition. It promotes health, wellness, and community development,” she added.

Jubilee Health Insurance Chief Executive Officer, Dr Harold Adamson, said the partnership with TCA reflects the company’s commitment to the event and to youth development. “Our flag will fly high.

We are preparing well with this team of four. Sport promotes health and well-being, and we are creating opportunities for people to exercise and live healthier lives,” said Dr Adamson.

Jubilee Life Insurance Corporate Financial Officer, Mr Hillary Godson, emphasised the company’s commitment to youth through sport. “We are dedicated to standing with young people and helping them achieve their dreams.

Exercise is vital for daily life, enabling youth to live freely and without stress,” he said. “We work with communities to nurture talent.

Sport is talent, and we support the government’s efforts to empower youth through self-employment,” he added. The Grand Nairobi Jubilee ‘Live Free’ Race 2025 is expected to draw strong participation this year, with athletes from Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania vying for honours.

The event combines sport with community engagement, underscoring the values of unity, health, and youth development. For Tanzania, participation in the race is part of a broader strategy to raise the profile of cycling, nurture local talent, and inspire the next generation of sportspeople.

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Dar es Salaam. The Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (Ewura) has cautioned entrepreneurs planning to establish petrol stations across the country to secure official construction permits before commencing work, warning that failure to comply could result in heavy penalties.

The warning came in a press statement issued on Friday, October 3, 2025, during a consultative meeting in Iringa, amid reports that some investors, particularly in rural districts, were rushing to build stations without following due process. Ewura said such practices undermine regulatory standards and pose safety, health, and environmental risks.

Ewura Central Zone Manager, Ms Hawa Lweno, told stakeholders from the downstream petroleum, electricity, and water sectors that anyone intending to build a petrol station must first obtain a construction permit from the authority. “Failure to comply with this legal requirement will attract a fine of up to Sh20 million,” she stressed.

Ms Lweno explained that the permit process is more than a formality, noting that it enables Ewura’s technical teams to inspect sites to ensure compliance with national standards, including fire safety systems, environmental protection measures, and safe distances from schools, hospitals, and residential areas. “This permit is essential because it allows our experts to confirm that construction meets the required health, safety, and environmental benchmarks,” she added.

The government has recently encouraged investment in fuel retailing, particularly in underserved rural areas where access to reliable energy remains a challenge. However, officials insist growth must be orderly.

Observers note a surge in applications to build fuel stations, driven by expanding road networks and growing demand for transport and logistics. Yet, unregulated construction risks accidents, fuel leakages, and breaches of urban planning laws.

At the Iringa meeting, one participant, Mr David Mlyapatali, praised Ewura’s outreach, saying many entrepreneurs enter the fuel retail business without understanding their obligations. “This meeting has been very beneficial because it has given us clarity on the procedures and our responsibilities,” he said.

Under the Petroleum Act and Ewura regulations, investors must first apply for a construction permit and undergo technical reviews before receiving an operating licence. Noncompliance can lead to fines, closure orders, or legal action.

Ms Lweno emphasised that Ewura welcomes investment but will not compromise on safety. “Follow the law first.

Doing so protects your business and the community you serve,” she stressed. The Iringa session is part of Ewura’s nationwide drive to sensitise fuel station investors about construction and operational rules, signalling clearly that shortcuts will not be tolerated.

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Arusha. The East African Business Council (EABC) has officially launched a digital information desk to assist small-scale cross-border traders in overcoming non-tariff barriers (NTBs), a persistent obstacle to regional trade within the East African Community (EAC).

The launch, which was held on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at the TavetaHolili border, coincided with a three-day training programme titled “Capacity Building on Financial Literacy, Business Management and Gender-Sensitive Practices in Cross-Border Trade.” The training brought together more than 100 traders dealing in agricultural produce, vegetables, and fruits from the border region.

EABC’s Research, Policy and Trade in Goods Officer, Mr Gift Mbuya, told reporters that the initiative is part of the “Promoting Intra-EAC Agri-Food Cross-Border Trade by Addressing Non-Tariff Barriers to Trade.” Project.

“This project seeks to increase the participation of women and youth-led agri-food traders and boost the volume of cross-border trade, particularly in maize, rice, beans, soybeans, and horticultural products along selected EAC trade corridors,” said Mr Mbuya. The three-year project (20252027), implemented by EABC in partnership with the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), aims to empower about 2,440 women and youth traders across the region.

It focuses on reducing the cost and time of trade by eliminating NTBs, strengthening traders’ knowledge of trade facilitation instruments such as the Simplified Trade Regime (STR), and expanding access to digital trade portals and information booths at border points. The initiative is backed by a $399,900 grant from AGRA, with funding support from the Mastercard Foundation and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF).

Implementation involves close collaboration with the Tanzania Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (TCCIA), with EABC serving as lead coordinator. AGRA, an African-led and farmer-centred institution, is committed to transforming African agriculture from subsistence-based production into a commercially viable sector that enhances food security, nutrition, and household incomes.

During the training, the Deputy Director of Regional Integration at the EAC Affairs Ministry, Ms Mary Maisory, said that despite progress in reducing customs tariffs within the bloc, NTBs remain a major hindrance. “Traders still face delays in cargo clearance, unnecessary inspections, uncoordinated procedures, and limited awareness of trade documentation and standards,” said Ms Maisory.

“Building capacity and confidence among traders will help them understand the EAC’s STR, sanitary and phytosanitary measures (SPS), product standards, and how to report and resolve NTBs,” she added. She said addressing NTBs, strengthening cross-border infrastructure, and ensuring women and youth benefit fully from EAC opportunities are essential for the region’s economic growth.

“Empowering small-scale cross-border traders is not just about boosting trade, it is about transforming lives, uplifting communities, and building an inclusive and sustainable East African Community,” she said. Furthermore, Ms Maisory called on participants to make full use of the training sessions, networking opportunities, and policy discussions to advance their businesses and contribute to the prosperity of their nations.

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Dar es Salaam. From modest beginnings, the Tanzania Health Summit (THS) has grown into a force shaping the national health agenda, bringing together leading minds to devise solutions for the country’s most pressing medical challenges.

The 12th THS 2025, held from October 1 to 3 in Dar es Salaam, drew more than 1,500 participants from within and outside Tanzania, underscoring its stature as a platform for innovation, collaboration, and reform. Speaking to The Citizen on Friday, October 3, 2025, THS Board Chairperson, Dr Chakou Halfani Tindwa, said the initiative has become a driver of change in the health sector.

“We have become a catalyst for technology adoption in hospitals, for stronger scientific collaboration, and for development projects,” he said. Established during the Kikwete administration and sustained under Presidents Magufuli and Samia Suluhu Hassan, THS has served as a platform for knowledge exchange and accelerated improvements in healthcare delivery.

According to Dr Tindwa, THS has had a tangible impact on cost, quality, and access. Stakeholder participation has risen sharply, with numbers climbing from around 500 in its early years to between 1,500 and 1,700 annually today.

International engagement has also expanded, from 15 foreign delegates at the start to about 300 this year, including 11 ambassadors. “This shows how the summit has distinguished itself,” he said, noting that government support reflects recognition of its value.

Capacity building is a key pillar of THS: “Every year, we train over 100 people. This year, we trained 150, who will return to rural districts and become leaders in their health systems.

” By investing in people, the summit ensures that improvements extend to remote areas, not only Dar es Salaam. This year’s summit aligned with a broader government drive to digitise healthcare.

At the opening, Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary, Dr Seif Shekalaghe, announced that a Digital Health Strategy 20252030 is being prepared. The strategy will integrate artificial intelligence, safeguard data privacy, and expand digital literacy among health workers.

“Digital innovation will transform the health sector and help save lives,” he said. Dr Shekalaghe linked the summit’s theme, Harnessing Data Utilisation and Technologies to Accelerate Universal Health Coverage, to Tanzania’s goal of ensuring equitable access to healthcare.

“Data and technology are no longer luxuries in healthcare but indispensable tools,” he stressed. Experts agreed that THS has become vital in aligning health policy with practice.

Public health specialist and digital health advocate, Dr Eunis Mremi, described the summit as a bridge between different stakeholders. “This summit provides technicians, clinicians, policymakers, and donors with a shared space.

That alignment is vital if we are to scale innovations, especially in rural districts,” she said. Health systems economist, Mr Juma Mwakyusa, highlighted THS’s role in tackling fragmentation.

“Silos remain a persistent challenge. When NGOs, hospitals, and governments meet under one roof, we can harmonise digital systems, standards, data definitions, and procurement plans.

That is what THS enhances,” he said. A major achievement has been advancing interoperability, allowing hospital systems, laboratories, logistics, and health information platforms to communicate seamlessly.

This enhances datadriven planning, reduces duplication, and improves resource efficiency Operating as a non-profit, THS’s mission is to promote healthcare for disadvantaged communities. Over the years, it has grown into Tanzania’s largest annual health platform.

Its stature, according to Dr Tindwa, has given it legitimacy and increasing self-sustainability, with local contributions and revenue now covering more of its costs. “We are not just convening.

We are building leaders, connecting innovators, and improving services across the country,” he said. If its momentum is sustained, Tanzania’s health sector, and the people it serves, stand to gain significantly.

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