Category: The Citizen

Dodoma. Luhaga Mpina’s quest for the presidency has suffered a major setback after the High Court dismissed a constitutional case he had filed together with the ACT-Wazalendo Board of Trustees.

The ruling, delivered yesterday, has prompted the opposition party to announce plans to challenge the decision in a higher court as part of its continued legal and political push for constitutional and electoral reforms. In a statement released by the Office of the Party’s legal department, ACT-Wazalendo said it would continue to work with both local and international partners in advancing its pursuit of justice and fair democratic participation.

The party called on its members and supporters to remain calm, united and focused on the broader struggle for democracy and the rule of law, reaffirming its slogan, “Tubaki wamoja, safari inaendelea” (Let’s remain united, the journey continues). “We entered this legal process seeking justice and transparency and have consistently called for equal participation in democratic processes, including elections,” the statement said.

“Even though the court did not hear our petition on its merits, we shall continue to seek justice and defend the values of democracy in our country.” According to ACT-Wazalendo, the court’s decision was based on technical legal grounds raised by the government, which questioned the court’s jurisdiction to hear the matter.

The judges ruled that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is legally protected from interference over decisions made in good faith, effectively striking out the case. Mr Mpina and the party’s Board of Trustees had challenged INEC’s decision to disqualify him from contesting for the presidency, arguing that the decision violated internal party procedures.

The judgment, in case number 24022, was delivered at the High Court’s Dodoma Main Registry by Justice Fredrick Manyanda, who led a three-judge panel that also included Justices Sylvester Kainda and Abdallah Gonzi. Justice Manyanda said the Constitution bars any institution from interfering with INEC’s mandate, noting that the commission acted within its authority.

The decision narrows Mr Mpina’s chances of appearing on the 2025 presidential ballot unless an appeal reverses the ruling and orders INEC to reinstate him in the race. Earlier, INEC had blocked Mr Mpina from submitting his nomination forms, prompting him to seek court intervention.

The court ruled in his favour, directing INEC to allow him to file his papers. However, after he submitted the forms and was initially cleared, the Attorney General lodged a new objection that INEC accepted, leading to his disqualification and the subsequent legal challenge that has now been dismissed.

With Mpina’s exclusion, the number of presidential candidates in the 2025 General Election now stands at 17, although ACT-Wazalendo maintains a strong presence in parliamentary and councillorship contests across the country. .

Dar es Salaam. Raila Odinga, the veteran Kenyan politician whose life was defined by negotiation, alliances and unrelenting ambition, passed away during a morning walk in Kerala, India.

Known as Baba–the father of the people–Odinga was both revered and criticised for his extraordinary skill in brokering deals that reshaped Kenya’s political landscape. For more than five decades, Odinga pivoted between outsider and insider, opposition and government, with remarkable fluidity.

His latest manoeuvre came after Kenya’s youth-led Gen Z protests. Though not the spark behind the movement, he emerged as the mediator, brokering a “broad-based government” deal that placed his ODM allies in President William Ruto’s Cabinet, cementing his enduring influence.

Forged in struggle Born in 1945 to Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first vice-president and Mary Juma, Raila was steeped in politics from childhood. Educated in East Germany as a mechanical engineer, he returned home to teach, run a business and advocate for his father’s release when political detentions intensified.

His own ordeal began in 1982 when, after a failed Air Force coup, he was imprisoned without trial for six years at Kamiti Maximum Prison–a period that turned him into a national symbol of resistance. With the reintroduction of multiparty politics, Odinga won the Lang’ata parliamentary seat in 1992 and made his first presidential bid in 1997, finishing fourth.

In a move that shocked many, he joined President Daniel Moi’s government, demonstrating his early mastery of pragmatic politics. He held the Energy Ministry and chaired the parliamentary committee on constitutional review, cementing both influence and networks that would serve him for decades.

Mastering the art of alliances Odinga’s career was marked by high-stakes alliances. After Moi bypassed him for the presidency in favour of Uhuru Kenyatta, he returned to the opposition, helping build the National Rainbow Coalition (NARC) that ended KANU’s 40-year rule in 2002. Though denied the prime ministership he expected, Odinga destabilised Kibaki’s first term from within, displaying his capacity to leverage positions of influence.

The 2005 constitutional referendum and subsequent 2007 elections saw Odinga consolidate power through the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). When the 2007 polls descended into chaos, he accepted the Kofi Annan-mediated deal that made him prime minister in a grand coalition with Kibaki–a government formed out of crisis rather than consensus.

It was within this fragile coalition that Kenya achieved the 2010 Constitution, a milestone Odinga had long championed. Despite losing the 2013 and 2017 presidential elections–the latter annulled by the Supreme Court–Odinga remained a central figure.

In 2018, he orchestrated the famous Handshake with President Uhuru Kenyatta, recalibrating Kenyan politics and giving birth to the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI), a constitutional reform effort that ultimately failed in court but further solidified his role as kingmaker. A legacy of negotiation Odinga’s final years were defined by strategic manoeuvring rather than pursuit of the presidency.

His deal with Ruto reflected both risk and pragmatism: a former opposition leader now defending policies he once criticised. To critics, it was capitulation; to supporters, a demonstration of political survival.

Throughout his life, Raila’s influence transcended simple election outcomes. He normalised protest politics, strengthened constitutional institutions and proved that negotiation could achieve outcomes beyond raw power.

He shaped Kenya’s civic consciousness, teaching that political engagement requires both principle and pragmatism. Yet, his story was also personal.

His wife, Ida and children endured absences, detentions and political battles alongside him. Friends and allies saw a man capable of charm, calculation and unwavering loyalty–a tactician who could move seamlessly from street protest to boardroom diplomacy.

Enduring imprint Raila Odinga’s life defies tidy categorisation. He was hero and tactician, broker and reformer, populist and establishment figure.

His fingerprints are on Kenya’s 2010 Constitution, on coalition politics and on the protests that forced state accountability. He did not leave behind a perfect democracy, but he left a louder, more assertive Kenya–one in which citizens knew their voices mattered.

Odinga’s story was never about the presidency alone. It was about leverage, resilience and the enduring power of negotiation.

Even in death, Raila Odinga remains a lesson in the art of political deal-making–an institution unto himself. .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

” .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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