Category: The Citizen

All 25 students escaped unhurt as fire of unknown origin destroyed a pupils’ dormitory at Kilimanjaro Mahadil Islamiyya Seminary Girls School in Moshi Municipality, Kilimanjaro Region, on Tuesday, August 11, 2026.

The structure, powered solely by solar energy without any connection to the national grid, burned down while the students were attending their daily prayers.

Kilimanjaro Regional Fire and Rescue Commander Jeremiah Mkomagi confirmed the disaster, stating that all items inside the building, including exercise books, textbooks, mattresses, clothing, and other personal belongings, were completely lost. Commander Mkomagi noted that the exact cause remains unclear, adding that investigations are currently underway to establish what triggered the blaze.

“It is true that a fire broke out today, Tuesday, August 11, 2026, destroying the girls’ dormitory while pupils were praying,” confirmed the regional Fire and Rescue chief.

Headteacher Mohamed Lukua expressed shock over the incident, pointing out that the building lacked mains electricity and was securely locked at the time.

‘At around 1:20 pm today, August 11, 2026, while in my office, I heard children shouting. Seeing thick smoke, I rushed to the scene where neighbours had already gathered. We managed to douse the flames using water,’ recalled Mr Lukua.

He added that the affected building housed 25 Form Three students, who lost all their essential school items and personal property.

Mr Lukua reiterated that the blaze remains mysterious, as no one was inside the locked dormitory during the prayer session.

‘The cause remains unknown because the pupils were at prayer when the fire started. The building runs on solar power, has no internal mains electricity, and was locked,’ he stated.

Kilimanjaro Regional Sheikh Shaban Mlewa also confirmed that security agencies have taken over the investigation to determine the source of the fire.

‘The incident occurred while the children were at prayer, but we do not know the cause yet. We have handed over the investigation to security organs,’ said Sheikh Mlewa.

He expressed surprise that a building operating solely on solar energy could catch fire under such circumstances.

Sheikh Mlewa urged parents and members of the public to remain calm, reassuring them that learning activities would proceed uninterrupted.

‘We assure parents and the public that studies will continue as normal. We thank God for protecting our students and ask for patience as we await the investigation findings,’ concluded Sheikh Mlewa.

Since 1970, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has provided nationwide support to Tanzania through both soft and hard assistance schemes under two major programs. These initiatives have focused on improving productivity, commercialization, and industrialization in the agriculture sector, including fisheries and livestock, in alignment with the country’s development priorities, thereby contributing to economic growth and the social development of Tanzania.

Happy Nane Nane to all the hardworking farmers of Tanzania!

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) recognizes and appreciates the dedication of farmers and the vital role they play in feeding the nation and building a more sustainable future. We are proud to work alongside farmers and the Government of Tanzania to support agricultural development and promote co-created innovative solutions that empower farming communities.

Since 1970, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has provided nationwide support to Tanzania through both soft and hard assistance schemes under two major programs. These initiatives have focused on improving productivity, commercialization, and industrialization in the agriculture sector, including fisheries and livestock, in alignment with the country’s development priorities, thereby contributing to economic growth and the social development of Tanzania.

Happy Nane Nane to all the hardworking farmers of Tanzania!

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) recognizes and appreciates the dedication of farmers and the vital role they play in feeding the nation and building a more sustainable future. We are proud to work alongside farmers and the Government of Tanzania to support agricultural development and promote co-created innovative solutions that empower farming communities.

Drawing on JICA’s long history of cooperation in Tanzania, we will continue to foster co-creation and collaboration with the Government of Tanzania, the private sector, development partners, farmers, and other stakeholders to advance sustainable agricultural development.

‘Together, let us build strong partnerships that will shape the future of agriculture and ensure prosperity for generations to come.

Happy Nane Nane Day!’

Program 1: Promoting Commercialization / Industrialization of Agriculture

Project for Empowerment and Promotion of Agriculture Through Use of SHEP Approach (TANSHEP2) : April 2025-October 2029

JICA’s SHEP Approach promotes the farmers to conduct market survey before starting cultivation to decide which crops to produce, so that the farmers can effectively increase their income. With the concept of ‘Anzia Sokoni, Malizia Shambani, Kwa Kipato Zaidi’, Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) and President’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG) in collaboration with JICA has started the 2nd phase of the project, aiming to disseminate the SHEP approach nationwide.

Drawing on JICA’s long history of cooperation in Tanzania, we will continue to foster co-creation and collaboration with the Government of Tanzania, the private sector, development partners, farmers, and other stakeholders to advance sustainable agricultural development.

‘Together, let us build strong partnerships that will shape the future of agriculture and ensure prosperity for generations to come.

Happy Nane Nane Day!’

Program 1: Promoting Commercialization / Industrialization of Agriculture

Project for Empowerment and Promotion of Agriculture Through Use of SHEP Approach (TANSHEP2) : April 2025-October 2029

JICA’s SHEP Approach promotes the farmers to conduct market survey before starting cultivation to decide which crops to produce, so that the farmers can effectively increase their income. With the concept of ‘Anzia Sokoni, Malizia Shambani, Kwa Kipato Zaidi’, Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) and President’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG) in collaboration with JICA has started the 2nd phase of the project, aiming to disseminate the SHEP approach nationwide.

Agricultural and Rural Development Two Step Loan Project (TSL): January 2025- January 2030

JICA is collaborating with Tanzania Agricultural Development Bank (TADB) for the provision of medium and long-term sub-loans to a group of farmers and other beneficiaries. The project is expected to contribute to the improvement of agricultural productivity through access to affordable capital. (Target crops: rice, maize, wheat, sunflower/ horticulture crops for women and youth).

Program 2: Strengthening Rice Productions

The Project for Strengthening Capacities of Stakeholders of Rice Industry Development (TANRICE3): June 2023-June 2028

In the 1970s, JICA has established the Kilimanjaro Agricultural Training Center (KATC) to strengthen the function system of training methods suitable for farmers’ fields. Then, through technical cooperation projects, TANRICE1 and TANRICE2, JICA has provided technical training on rice cultivation nationwide mainly in the irrigated areas, which increased the productivity of farmers from 3.2 t/ha to 4.5 t/ha. In the ongoing TANRICE3, JICA is working to improve productivity in rainfed rice production areas, in addition to training in irrigated rice cultivation technology. It is expected that the number of farmers adopting the rice production techniques recommended by this project will increase, which would lead to more rice production in Tanzania.

Agricultural Mechanization Advisor: May 2024-May 2027

JICA has dispatched experts to support the promotion of agriculture mechanization while strengthening the functions and sustainability of AFICAT*. The project is expected to contribute to the improvement of agricultural productivity in Tanzania.

*AFICAT (Africa Field Innovation Center for Agricultural Technology) is an Initiative for promoting advanced technology and agricultural mechanization in Sub Saharan Africa through public-private partnership.

EAC Regional Rice Development Strategy Promotion: April 2026 – April 2029

The East African Community (EAC) has adopted the East African Rice Development Strategy (ERDS), which aims to double rice production in the region by 2030. To support this goal, a JICA expert is working to strengthen EAC’s capacity to implement the strategy and promote rice trade within the region.

3. Others

The Project for Co-designing Neglected Zoonosis Intervention through One-Health, Education, and Public-Private Partnership: July 2024-June 2029

A project which aims to address the challenges posed by neglected zoonotic diseases such as brucellosis and zoonotic tuberculosis which are prevalent in Tanzania’s livestock sector. The project is implemented through collaboration of the Japanese universities and Tanzanian universities, aiming to establish a brucellosis and zoonotic tuberculosis control approach in the Morogoro Region.

The ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) likely began with a new transmission of the virus from animals to humans, rather than from strains linked to previous outbreaks, according to a new study.

Researchers found that the outbreak involves a previously unrecorded variant of the rare Bundibugyo species of Ebola virus. The finding suggests the virus may have crossed from an animal host into humans before spreading between people.

The study involved researchers from the DRC, Uganda, Belgium and other countries, who analysed virus samples from the outbreak.

The ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) likely began with a new transmission of the virus from animals to humans, rather than from strains linked to previous outbreaks, according to a new study.

Researchers found that the outbreak involves a previously unrecorded variant of the rare Bundibugyo species of Ebola virus. The finding suggests the virus may have crossed from an animal host into humans before spreading between people.

The study involved researchers from the DRC, Uganda, Belgium and other countries, who analysed virus samples from the outbreak.

A total of 387 Tanzanian students have received travel documents to enable them to pursue higher education in China and India.

The students, who are preparing to travel for their studies, received the documents in Dar es Salaam in the presence of their parents and guardians.

The documents were handed over by Global Education Link (GEL), with 198 students set to travel to China and 189 to India to begin their studies at various higher education institutions. The travel documents included passports, visas, flight tickets, No Objection Certificates (NOCs), Yellow Fever vaccination certificates and other documents required by the relevant authorities, depending on the destination country, institution and individual travel requirements.

The meetings also provided students, parents and guardians with final briefings on travel arrangements, immigration procedures, accommodation, health insurance, safety, financial management, personal conduct and adapting to life in their respective destination countries.

Speaking at the event, GEL Executive Director Abdulmalik Mollel, who was joined by representatives from colleges in China and India, urged the students to make the most of their time abroad by acquiring knowledge and skills beyond their academic qualifications.

‘I urge you to use your time abroad to gain knowledge and skills beyond your academic qualifications,’ he said.

Mr Mollel encouraged the students not to travel to China and India simply to obtain certificates or degrees, but to take advantage of the technology, laboratories, workshops, innovation centres and international networks available to them.

He challenged them to go beyond classroom learning by visiting laboratories, workshops and innovation centres to understand how technologies and products are developed and applied to address societal challenges.

Using a Business Administration student as an example, Mr Mollel said learning management theories alone was insufficient, urging students to also develop an understanding of products, technology, production processes and industrial systems.

He said such knowledge would help students identify opportunities to establish businesses or contribute to transforming existing enterprises after graduation.

GEL has more than 19 years of experience assisting Tanzanian students, parents and guardians to pursue education opportunities overseas.

Alikiba, Bien, Diamond Platnumz, Marioo and other East African artistes are driving a growing wave of cross-border collaborations, as musicians from Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda increasingly join forces to reach new audiences.

Spotify’s Global Impact List for H1 2026 has placed ‘Finale,’ ‘AYAYAAH,’ ‘Lete Sound,’ ‘Pom Pom’ and ‘Nasinzia II’ among East Africa’s leading collaboration tracks, highlighting the growing influence of cross-border partnerships on the region’s music industry.

According to Spotify, the collaborations are helping artistes move beyond their individual national audiences by combining different sounds, cultures and fan bases.

Leading the list is ‘Finale’ by Tanzania’s Alikiba and Kenya’s Bien, bringing together two established names from neighbouring music markets.

At number two is ‘AYAYAAH,’ featuring Bien alongside Uganda’s Joshua Baraka and Rwanda’s ELEMENT EleéeH.

The third-ranked song, ‘Lete Sound,’ brings together Tanzanian singer Ben Pol, Kenyan artiste Juliani and Dutch DJ and producer Don Diablo, adding an international dimension to the regional collaboration trend.

At number four is ‘Pom Pom,’ a collaboration between Rwanda’s Bruce Melodie, Nigeria’s Brown Joel and Tanzania’s Diamond Platnumz, showing how East African collaborations are also extending beyond the region.

Completing the top five is ‘Nasinzia II,’ by Kenya’s Nameless and Tanzania’s Marioo.

Spotify said the growing number of such collaborations points to a music scene that is becoming increasingly interconnected.

‘Collaboration is driving East Africa’s biggest global songs,’ the platform said, noting that artistes are increasingly blending sounds and audiences across national borders.

For artistes seeking to grow beyond their home markets, collaborations offer a direct way to tap into established audiences in other countries. A listener who discovers Alikiba through ‘Finale,’ for example, may go on to explore Bien’s catalogue, while Bien’s audience gets an introduction to Alikiba’s music.

The same dynamic can be seen in ‘AYAYAAH,’ which brings together artistes from three East African countries on one track, giving each performer access to audiences beyond their usual markets.

The list also reflects the diversity of East Africa’s music landscape. Bongo Flava from Tanzania, Kenya’s Afropop and urban sounds, Uganda’s contemporary R and B and Rwanda’s growing urban music scene are increasingly finding space on the same records.

Rather than erasing national identities, Spotify said such collaborations allow artistes to showcase their distinct sounds while reaching wider audiences.

Streaming platforms have accelerated that process by making it easier for listeners to discover music beyond their home countries. A song released in Dar es Salaam can quickly find listeners in Nairobi, Kampala or Kigali, while a cross-border collaboration can give artistes a foothold in markets that may previously have been difficult to access.

The five songs on Spotify’s list offer a snapshot of an East African music industry in which geographical borders are becoming less important in determining how far a song can travel.

As more artistes join forces across countries, collaboration is increasingly emerging as one of the region’s strongest tools for turning local sounds into a wider African and global conversation.

In today’s world, where employment challenges and social changes are accelerat­ing, World Vision Tanzania has emerged as a true partner for Tanzanian youth.

Through its ambitious AHADI, BLOOM, and Youth Ready projects, implemented with the partnership with; the government of Tanzania, Niajiri Africa, Babawatoto, KIWO­HEDE, TAHEA, The Barett Fami­ly Foundation and Government of Canada, the organization has been implementing strategies aimed not only at providing youth with job skills but transforming them into heroes of change within their com­munities.

As Tanzania joins the world in cel­ebrating International Youth Day, World Vision Tanzania is show­casing the significant milestones achieved through these initiatives. Currently active in Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, and Tanga, these projects highlight the immense potential of young people to contribute to national development.

The organization is fully prepared to use various platforms to show­case the significant milestones of development and transformation achieved by young people through the implementation of the AHADI, BLOOM, and Youth Ready projects.

The Youth Expo: Bridging the skills gap

A cornerstone of this strategy is the Youth Expo, a unique platform that connects young people with development stakeholders, employ­ers, and training institutions.

The expo serves as a critical forum to address labor market challenges while providing direct employment links for youth who have passed through World Vision Tanzania’s programmes.

Foundations of health and informed choices

World Vision Tanzania operates on the principle that a healthy youth is a productive citizen. Through the AHADI project, approximately 294,438 young people have received vital reproductive health education.

This education has been a cata­lyst in helping youth understand themselves, protect themselves against unintended pregnancies, and make informed decisions about their future lives. Furthermore, the AHADI Impact Model (AHADIIM) has been a pillar of change for ado­lescents (aged 10-24), emphasizing peer-to-peer learning.

Youth learn freely about sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), gender equality, protection against violence (GBV/SGBV), and life skills. The confidence of these young people has increased because they now recognize ways to protect themselves from violence and know where to access services.

Youth participants of the AHADI project, being implemented by World Vision Tanzania, engage in discussions.

These positive results have been achieved for youth both in and out of school, fostering a sense of safety and confidence among them.

Economic empowerment and breaking stereotypes

The Youth Ready project has become an engine for econom­ic liberation. To date, 17,211 young people have undergone vocational training, with 8,490 successfully securing jobs or starting their own businesses. Additionally, 610 youth have graduated from TVET and entrepreneurship courses under the AHADI project.

Likewise, through the AHADI project, 610 youth have graduated from vocational training (TVET) and entrepreneurship, which has bolstered their confidence to com­pete in the job market due to the certificates and skills they acquired

Beyond skills, the organisation is successfully dismantling gender stereotypes. Youth are now choos­ing professions from mechanics to culinary arts based on passion and ability rather than traditional gender roles. Financial literacy has also seen a boost, with 51 Savings for Transformation (S4T) groups established, managing a total of Sh 12,417,600

Strategic partnerships for impact

Collaboration remains key. World Vision Tanzania works closely with the government through Youth Integration Forums to facilitate access to loans and opportunities. In the private sector, partnerships with entities like Niajiri Africa pro­vide essential internships, while the Youth Ready Leadership Academy alumni network offers a bridge to the professional world.

World Vision Tanzania also works with local partners includes; Babawatoto and TAHEA to imple­ment these projects. as well as The Barett Family Foundation for Youth Ready and Government of Cana­da for AHADI and Bloom who are funding these projects.

Furthermore, 11 health facilities in Dodoma and Dar es Salaam have been refribshmented to provide youth-friendly, stigma-free services, equipped with digital tools for con­tinued learning.

Service providers have been trained to offer services without stigma or judgment, which has increased youth confidence in vis­iting these centers for reproductive health and nutrition services. These centers have also been equipped with communication tools to enable youth to engage in digital learning.

In technology, a partnership with Apps and Girls has seen 25 girls in Dar es Salaam master coding and web design, who are now training their peers.

Although the challenge of rural infrastructure persists, World Vision Tanzania continues to provide training using a hybrid approach (digital and analog) in approximately 16 regions, following government guidelines.

The MenCare champions the environment

The MenCare Champions mod­ule has brought about a significant transformation in mindsets. Now, men participate fully in domestic duties such as cooking and washing, tasks that were previously viewed as being for women only.

These men have become protec­tors of girls’ rights, opposing child marriage and gender-based vio­lence. Regarding the environment, youth in the Tanga region are using the Citizen Voice and Action (CVA) module to influence environmental policies.

The Empowered Worldview (EWV) module has helped youth move away from a culture of dependency and start using their own resources for entrepreneur­ship. This courage led youth to international platforms like COP27 to represent the voice of Tanzania.

Voices of success

One of the living examples of change brought by World Vision Tanzania is the story of Hussein Rajab Mathayo (22), a young man from Kivule Ward in Dar es Salaam, whose life has transformed from the streets to becoming a respected pro­fessional Chef, along with Mariam Iddi Athumani (22) from Mnadani Ward, Dodoma, who overcame a period of darkness after being una­ble to continue her studies in 2022.

Mariam Iddi: A second chance in life

Mariam Iddi Athumani is a 22-year-old young mother from Mnadani Ward who lives with her 2 visually impaired parents and her younger sibling. After completing her secondary education at Miyuji Secondary School in 2022, Mariam was unable to continue to Advanced Level because of her family’s finan­cial hardships.

Her dream of becoming a doctor came to an end, leaving her hope­less and discouraged. With her par­ents unable to earn a stable income, the family relied on support from relatives and the local mosque to survive.

Feeling frustrated and without direction, Mariam became involved in negative peer groups, where she started smoking, drinking alcohol, and engaging in risky sexual behav­ior. In 2024, she gave birth to a baby boy, Abdul-Aziz Athumani, after her partner denied responsibility for the pregnancy. The experience left her emotionally distressed and struggling to care for both herself and her child.

In early 2025, Mariam’s life began to change when a community ambassador introduced her to the AHADI Project. She was linked to the project’s promoter, Mwaija, who encouraged her to attend the AHA­DI learning sessions.

Through these sessions, Mariam gained knowledge on maternal and child health, positive decision-mak­ing, and life skills. She began attend­ing regular child welfare visits and monthly clinic visits at Mipango Dispensary and followed the advice of healthcare providers, which led to significant improvements in her son’s health.

The youth participants of World Vision Tanzania projects share knowledge and skills at Bunju Health Centre.

‘The AHADI Project gave me a second chance in life. It transformed me from a hopeless young mother into a confident and independent woman. Today, I can provide for my child, support my family, make informed decisions, and inspire other young people to believe that change is possible,’ Mariam said with a smile.

From a Street to a chef: Hus­sein Mathayo’s journey

Hussein, who has only a primary education, went through a difficult period after dropping out of school due to his family’s poor economic situation. Raised by a single parent, Hussein found himself losing hope, spending much of his time on the streets under the influence of direc­tionless friends.

‘I had no direction, I had no job, and I had no faith that I could fulfill my dreams,’ Hussein explains. The change began when he met a Youth Ready project animator.

Despite initial doubts about the opportunity, Hussein decided to join and received life skills training through modules like ‘Who am I and Who are We’, ‘Ready for Work’, ‘Ready for Entrepreneurship’, and ‘Ready for Citizenship’

These training sessions helped Hussein understand himself, build confidence, and see his value as a young person capable of fulfilling his dreams. Following the training, Hussein joined vocational training at the KIWOHEDE TVET center in Bunju, where he chose to study Hotel Management due to his pas­sion for cooking

Despite being discouraged by some in the community who claimed that cooking is not a man’s job, Hussein remained firm. ‘I believed that success comes from passion and hard work, not from societal expectations,’ Hussein says.

His efforts led him to the South Beach Resort Hotel in Kigamboni for practical training (field). Due to his discipline and hard work, Hus­sein succeeded in being employed as a professional Chef immediately after his training.

Today, Hussein not only earns an income but also supports his family, parents, and siblings while serving as a source of inspiration for other youth in his neighborhood. Hus­sein now has even bigger dreams of becoming a world-class inter­national chef and opening his own restaurant that will provide jobs for other young people.

Jubilee Strategy FY2026-FY2030: Towards 2030

The ‘Jubilee Strategy FY2026-FY2030’ has been specifically designed to reach even more youth, particularly those in urban areas.

This strategy aims to ensure youth can liberate themselves eco­nomically through vocational train­ing, improvements in reproductive health services, and by addressing youth policy reforms

By the year 2030, this strategy aims to have enabled many urban youth to achieve their economic and social goals. Through this strat­egy, Tanzania is cultivating a new generation of youth who will not only be employed but will be lead­ers, innovators, and catalysts for change in the nation.

International Youth Day, com­bined with the vision of World Vision Tanzania, serves as a remind­er that when a young person is given the opportunity and skills as Hus­sein and Mariam, they can turn darkness into light and transform their community and the nation as a whole.

World Vision Tanzania grate­fully acknowledges the Govern­ment of Canada and The Barrett Family Foundation for making this life-changing work possible. Through their generosity and com­mitment to youth empowerment, thousands of young people are gaining the tools, opportunities, and support needed to unlock their potential, build sustainable liveli­hoods, and shape a more hopeful future.

Kizimkazi Festival 2026 has officially opened in Zanzibar with a mix of music, culture, entertainment and business opportunities, bringing together artistes, visitors and stakeholders for three days of celebrations.

Running from August 12 to 14, the festival, themed ‘Shangwe na Fursa’ (Celebration and Opportunities), has attracted attention with a star-studded entertainment line-up featuring some of Tanzania’s biggest names, including Frida Amani, Alikiba, Nandy, Harmonize, Mbosso and Marioo.

The artistes are expected to take the stage throughout the festival, offering audiences a mix of musical styles while adding a major entertainment draw to the annual event. The festival officially opened on August 12 at Dimbani grounds, South Unguja, with Zanzibar President Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi urging organisers and stakeholders to use the event to showcase the islands’ tourism, business and investment opportunities, particularly in the blue economy.

President Mwinyi said the festival’s growing popularity, including participation from Zanzibar and beyond, presents an opportunity to attract more visitors while promoting local culture and economic activities.

The programme goes beyond music, with traditional arts, food exhibitions, sports, ngalawa competitions, business exhibitions and the launch of development projects forming part of the three-day celebration.

President Mwinyi also highlighted Zanzibar’s beaches, spices, fruits, cuisine, historic buildings, wildlife and cultural heritage as attractions that can be promoted to both domestic and international visitors.

The 2026 edition draws Tanzanians and visitors from outside the country, offering a combination of live entertainment, cultural experiences and opportunities to explore business and investment prospects in Zanzibar.

With music stars taking the stage alongside cultural and community activities, Kizimkazi Festival 2026 is shaping up as more than a celebration of entertainment. It is also positioning itself as a platform where shangwe meets fursa.

This series began with a simple question: after nearly four decades of economic liberalisation, what is the proper role of government in determining prices?

The discussion has taken us from the transition away from administrative price controls, to agricultural producer prices, consumer price regulation and, finally, to the principles that should guide government intervention in markets. One final question remains: Who ensures that these principles are respected?

The answer lies in one of the least understood, yet most important, pillars of a liberal economy-the system of fair competition.

Markets do not function efficiently simply because buyers and sellers exist. They require rules that ensure competition remains open, transparent and fair. Without those rules, markets can be distorted by monopolies, cartels, collusion, abuse of market power or unfair trade practices.

Equally, well-intentioned government intervention can unintentionally weaken competition and reduce efficiency if not exercised within a clear legal framework.

The purpose of competition law is therefore not to prevent business success. It is to ensure that success results from efficiency, innovation and fair competition rather than monopoly power, collusion or administrative privilege.

This is the role of Tanzania’s Fair Competition Commission (FCC).

Unlike sector regulators such as Ewura and Latra, which supervise particular industries, the FCC has a broader economy-wide responsibility. It promotes and protects competition, investigates anti-competitive conduct, reviews mergers that may substantially lessen competition, combats unfair trade practices and protects consumers against misleading market behaviour.

Its mandate extends beyond protecting consumers alone. Competitive markets also protect producers.

When several buyers compete openly for agricultural produce, farmers enjoy stronger bargaining power. When businesses compete fairly, consumers benefit from better prices, improved quality and greater choice.

When investors compete under transparent and predictable rules, confidence in the economy increases. Competition therefore benefits producers, consumers, investors and the nation as a whole.

One important lesson emerging from this series is that government should protect competition rather than individual competitors.

A business that loses customers because another enterprise has become more efficient has not necessarily suffered an injustice. Competition inevitably rewards innovation, lower costs and better service. Public policy should therefore encourage enterprises to become more competitive rather than shielding them from legitimate market rivalry.

At the same time, competition itself requires effective public oversight. Where monopolies abuse market dominance, regulators must intervene. Where businesses collude to fix prices or divide markets, competition authorities must act.

Where consumers are deceived through false or misleading claims, the law must provide protection. Strong competition policy therefore complements-not contradicts-effective sector regulation.

The relationship between sector regulators and the FCC is particularly important. Regulators such as EWURA and LATRA possess specialised technical expertise within their respective sectors and establish the regulatory rules governing those industries.

The FCC provides a broader safeguard by ensuring that market practices remain consistent with the principles of fair competition and consumer welfare established under Tanzania’s competition laws.

Neither institution replaces the other. Together, they strengthen confidence in Tanzania’s market economy.

An equally important, though less widely appreciated, institution is the Fair Competition Tribunal (FCT). Established under the Fair Competition Act, the Tribunal serves as an independent appellate body to hear appeals arising from decisions of the FCC and, where provided by law, decisions made by certain sector regulators. Its existence reinforces one of the fundamental principles of a liberal economy: administrative decisions should not be the final word where legal rights and commercial interests are affected.

Businesses, investors and consumers who believe that regulatory decisions are inconsistent with the law or the principles of fair competition have access to an independent forum for review.

This strengthens public confidence in regulatory institutions, promotes consistency in decision-making and assures both domestic and foreign investors that commercial disputes can be resolved through due process and the rule of law.

This institutional framework is becoming increasingly important as Tanzania prepares to implement Vision 2050.

The Vision seeks to transform Tanzania into a modern, diversified, competitive and inclusive economy. Such an economy cannot depend upon administrative price controls alone, nor can it rely upon markets operating without effective oversight.

It requires institutions capable of balancing enterprise with accountability, competition with consumer protection and private initiative with the public interest.

Experience around the world demonstrates that sustained economic transformation depends less on governments determining prices than on governments creating conditions under which competitive markets flourish. That requires predictable laws.

Independent sector regulators. An effective FCC. An independent FCT. Efficient infrastructure. Transparent taxation. Secure property rights. Reliable courts. And confidence that all market participants compete under the same rules.

Nearly 40 years after Tanzania embarked upon market liberalisation, the challenge is no longer to choose between the state and the market. That debate belongs largely to history. The challenge today is to ensure that both work together through strong institutions, fair competition, independent regulation and the rule of law.

Only then will markets serve producers without exploiting consumers, reward enterprise without encouraging monopoly, and promote economic growth that is both efficient and equitable. That is not simply good economics. It is good governance.

And if Vision 2050 is to fulfil its promise, fair competition will not be a peripheral issue. It will be one of its indispensable foundations.

. The President of Zanzibar, Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, has urged citizens and business stakeholders to leverage the annual Kizimkazi Festival to promote trade, tourism, and investment opportunities, particularly within the blue economy sector.

He called for sustained innovation and firm strategies to showcase the archipelago’s tourist attractions, expand commercial prospects, and strengthen national solidarity by encouraging public participation in economic and social development.

Dr Mwinyi made the remarks on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, while officially opening the Kizimkazi Festival and trade exhibition at the Dimbani grounds in South Unguja Region. “Let us use this opportunity to promote ourselves in tourism, business, and investment to grow our country’s economy,” said Dr Mwinyi.

He noted that the festival continues to grow in popularity, drawing participants from across Zanzibar, Mainland Tanzania, and international destinations.

Furthermore, Dr Mwinyi commended the creative line-up of activities organised for the festival, including dhow racing, art exhibitions, traditional culinary displays, sports competitions, and the inauguration of community development projects.

“These planned activities honour and preserve our culture for future generations, while serving as a platform to motivate development initiatives,” said Dr Mwinyi, encouraging members of the public to visit the trade exhibition to gain insights and strengthen their business operations.

He added that the festival aligns with government plans to diversify tourism offerings through cultural festivals and international conferences, supporting Zanzibar’s broader goal of increasing annual tourist arrivals from 800,000 to 1.5 million.

Achieving this target, Dr Mwinyi explained, requires designing signature events alongside safeguarding the Isles’ natural assets, including its pristine beaches and rare endemic wildlife.

He noted that Zanzibar is uniquely blessed with a wide variety of fruits, spices, historical architecture, distinct cuisine, and a renowned culture of hospitality.

“These are among the key attributes that attract visitors to Zanzibar,” he said, expressing optimism that the festival will continue to drive both international arrivals and domestic tourism.

Dr Mwinyi highlighted that South Unguja Region is strategically positioned, bounded by the sea across all its districts and possessing extensive open land, critical resources that must be sustainably managed and protected.

He directed regional and district administrative leaders to use the festival to market local opportunities.

“Advertise your available land and the vast investment potential at sea to investors, so that these resources bring greater productivity and tangible benefits to citizens and the government,” he instructed.

Shift to deep-sea fishing

Dr Mwinyi observed that despite centuries of reliance on coastal waters, traditional artisanal fishing has not adequately uplifted livelihoods or contributed to the national economy at the desired scale.

He reiterated the Revolutionary Government’s commitment to transitioning fishers towards modern deep-sea fishing by providing modern gear and vessels, alongside establishing seaweed processing factories to add value to local harvests.

To facilitate this transition, he said the government is constructing modern landing sites, improved markets, and dedicated fishing ports.

On seaweed production, Dr Mwinyi emphasised: “We have an immense opportunity to maximise returns from this crop by scaling up output for global markets so that farmers secure better prices.”

He commended private sector investors for partnering with the government to boost tourist arrivals, pay taxes, and generate employment opportunities for young people.

“The government will continue to extend full cooperation and keep its doors open to facilitate investment, particularly in tourism, manufacturing, and the blue economy,” he assured.

Speaking at the event, South Unguja Regional Commissioner, Ms Hamida Mussa Khamis, noted that the festival has brought together numerous public and private institutions, providing a major economic boost to the region.

“Institutions continue to invest here, and ample land remains available. The response to this festival has been overwhelming, with both large and small hotels operating at full capacity,” said Ms Khamis.

The Mwanamke Initiative Foundation (MIF) Chairperson, Ms Wanu Hafidh Ameir, whose organisation co-organises the event, highlighted MIF’s role in delivering health and educational services during the festival.

“There are still community challenges that require collaborative efforts from all stakeholders to address,” stated Ms Ameir.

Lawyers have urged Tanzanians to give the newly established commission investigating criminal offences linked to violence surrounding the 2025 General Election time to complete its work, saying its composition and mandate provide a credible basis for establishing responsibility.

The six-member commission, chaired by Court of Appeal Judge Shabani Ally Lila, was launched on August 7, 2026, by President Samia Suluhu Hassan and has five months to complete its work.

The commission includes Petrus Tileinge Damaseb, Namibia’s Deputy Chief Justice, and Cheborion Barishaki, a Judge of Uganda’s Court of Appeal. Other commissioners are retired judges Gad John Mjemmas, Awadh Mohamed Bawazir and Aishieli Nelson Sumari. Speaking to journalists in Dar es Salaam today, advocate Sweetbert Nkuba said the commission was legally and constitutionally established under the Constitution and the Commission of Inquiry Act, Chapter 32. ‘The Lila Commission is legally and constitutionally established, and there should be no doubt about its legitimacy,’ he said.

He said its composition also gave it credibility, particularly because most members are serving or retired judges with experience at the highest levels of the judiciary.

Mr Nkuba cited the legal principle nemo judex in causa sua, which means that no person should be a judge in their own case, saying the inclusion of commissioners from outside Tanzania could help address concerns over impartiality.

An advocate based in Mwanza, Mr Steven Kaswahili, said: ‘The appointment of judges from Uganda and Namibia can strengthen public confidence in the inquiry because they bring perspectives from outside Tanzania.

Their involvement is particularly important given the nature of the allegations and the need to establish the facts without being influenced by local interests.’

On top of that, another advocate from Arusha, Ms Martha Serengi, said: ‘The new inquiry should be viewed alongside the earlier commission led by retired Chief Justice Mohamed Chande Othman because the two commissions have different mandates. The Chande Commission examined the causes and consequences of the violence and made recommendations, while the Lila Commission has a more specific task of investigating alleged criminal acts and establishing responsibility.’

Mr Nkuba said the difference was significant because the earlier inquiry focused on what happened, while the new commission was tasked with examining who may have been involved.

‘The Chande Commission was looking at what happened, but the Lila Commission is going to look at who was involved so that they can be held accountable,’ he said.

The lawyers’ views come after President Hassan launched the commission at State House in Dar es Salaam and explained the decision to include foreign judges.

‘We decided to involve our colleagues from Namibia and Uganda to get a broader perspective, because this commission will go deeper to find out exactly who incited, participated in and provided funds for those events to happen in our country,’ she said.

She also urged Tanzanians to co-operate with the commissioners.

‘I appeal to all Tanzanians to provide the co-operation required by the commission to carry out its duties. Let us help this commission do its work and not disturb it,’ she said.

The commission implements one of the recommendations of the Chande Commission, whose inquiry into the 2025 election-related violence established that 518 people died, while thousands were injured.

Under its mandate, the Lila Commission will investigate people suspected of committing criminal offences or breaching the law before, during and after the election and make recommendations on possible action.

President Hassan said its five-month mandate could be extended if there were valid reasons for doing so.