Category: The Citizen

Mali has announced a new visa policy requiring US citizens to post a bond of up to $10,000 before entering the country, in a move that mirrors a previous US measure targeting Malian nationals. The decision, unveiled by Malian authorities this week, is being described as an act of diplomatic reciprocity aimed at countering what Bamako considers a discriminatory US visa bond system.

Under the new arrangement, American travellers — including business visitors and tourists — will be required to deposit a refundable bond as a condition for obtaining entry clearance. Officials say the funds will be returned once visitors leave Mali within the permitted timeframe.

The policy is expected to affect US business and tourism activity in the country, particularly within the mining sector where American companies maintain significant interests. Mali’s move reflects a growing trend among West African nations adopting reciprocal measures in response to what they perceive as unequal treatment under US immigration and visa policies.

Analysts view the decision as both a symbolic and strategic gesture, underscoring Mali’s determination to assert greater parity in its diplomatic relations with Washington. .

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania remains conspicuously absent from Africa’s fundraising leaderboard as of October, even as start-ups across the continent continue to secure significant capital, with the total raised in 2025 now surpassing $2.2 billion.

According to Africa: The Big Deal, co-founded by Max Cuvellier Giacomelli, who is also the Head of Mobile for Development (M4D), 58 start-ups raised over $140 million in September alone. Although this is slightly below the average, it matches September 2024’s tally of $146 million and surpasses the $124 million raised in September 2023. The number of ventures raising at least $100,000 last month was also the second highest in a year, just behind July.

Of the $140 million raised, $105 million (75 percent) came from equity, with the remainder consisting mainly of debt ($32 million) and some grant funding ($3 million), including 16 match-funding grants from DEG Impulse as part of their new develop Ventures cohort in East Africa. The five largest transactions of the month were all equity: Kredete (fintech, Nigeria) secured $22 million in a Series A round; Pura Beverage raised $15 million in Series B funding; Contactable (identity, South Africa) bagged $13.5 million; Intella (AI, Egypt) closed a $12.5 million Series A; and The Invigilator (education, South Africa) received $11 million.

On a quarterly basis, start-ups in Africa raised $785 million in Q3. While this is lower than the $963 million raised in Q2, it is significantly higher than Q1’s $461 million. It is also a strong Q3 compared to the same quarter in 2024 ($649 million), 2023 ($496 million) and 2022 ($612 million).

Start-ups have now raised $2.2 billion in 2025 to date, excluding exits, putting the continent only $40 million away from surpassing the total raised in the whole of 2024. But as these figures rise across the continent, Tanzanian start-ups continue to struggle to maintain the fundraising momentum seen last year, raising questions about what the country must do to ensure consistency in attracting investment. In 2024, Tanzanian start-ups raised a total of $53 million, with more than $40 million coming in the third quarter alone, placing the country third in Africa for funds raised during that period.

This year, however, the picture is different. According to Africa: The Big Deal, Tanzanian start-ups have so far not crossed the $10 million mark in 2025, while across the continent, start-ups collectively raised over $1.4 billion in the first half of the year.

However, TSA’s Senior Manager of Programmes and Operations, Mr Praygod Japhet, said that after conducting an internal assessment to identify what is hindering Tanzania from performing well in startup investment across Africa, TSA found a significant gap in access to funds, especially in early and mid-stage financing. This led them to lobby the government to establish the National Venture Capital Trust Fund to enhance Tanzania’s competitiveness with other countries in this area.

“In other countries that have succeeded in startup investment, they strengthened their early and mid-stage financing, which enabled them to reach where they are. No country succeeds in startup investment if its systems are immature.

We expect the National Venture Capital Trust Fund will do the revolution because investment institutions are key to the success of startup investments in a country,” he said. He went on to reveal that the process of establishing the fund is in its initial stages and is scheduled to be completed by the end of the year.

Furthermore, Mr Japhet said that accessing funds in the early and mid-stages for startups in the country has been one of the prime challenges that is hindering the country from attracting more startup funds. For the co-founder of health-tech start-up Plate AI, Janeth Kareen Kilonzo, Tanzania’s subdued fundraising performance this year reflects both investor caution and structural gaps within the local ecosystem.

“Investors are increasingly looking for scale, traction and robust business models. Many early-stage Tanzanian start-ups are still at the proof-of-concept stage, with limited access to acceleration or growth-stage funding,” she said.

She noted that while the local ecosystem has made progress, particularly with regulatory reforms in the pipeline, more needs to be done to build strong pipelines and support systems for start-ups to grow beyond seed stage. “There’s talent and innovation in Tanzania, but our ecosystem support is not yet as layered as in markets like Kenya or Nigeria.

More targeted acceleration, mentorship and follow-on funding structures are needed if we’re to compete at continental level,” she added. Meanwhile, CEO and co-founder of Kilimo Fresh Foods Africa Ltd, Mr Baraka Chijenga, attributed part of the slowdown to a mismatch between investor expectations and the realities of operating businesses locally.

“Many international investors come in expecting the same pace and scale they see in Nairobi or Lagos, but Tanzania has its own market dynamics. Regulatory timelines, infrastructure gaps and limited local capital participation can make growth slower,” he said.

Mr Chijenga emphasised that the focus should now shift to creating sustainable investment pathways rather than chasing short-term fundraising highs. “If we can deepen local value chains, strengthen our agri-business infrastructure, and get more local corporates involved in co-investing, we can build stronger, more resilient ventures.

This will give foreign investors more confidence and attract larger rounds over time,” he explained. Sahara Ventures CEO and tech entrepreneur, Mr Jumanne Mtambalike, observed that Tanzania’s current fundraising landscape reflects a mix of global trends and domestic realities.

He pointed out that global capital movements, shifting investor preferences, and the tendency of funding to gravitate towards a few dominant African markets are factors largely beyond the country’s control. However, he stressed that there is clear work to be done locally to boost competitiveness.

“We need to strengthen our policy environment and bring more clarity to regulations, expand the pool of local investors to work alongside foreign ones, and equip our start-ups with better investor-readiness skills,” he noted. He added that quick interventions such as expediting the implementation of the Startup Policy, enhancing governance frameworks, and organising more deal showcase platforms, could help restore momentum in the short term.

Over the longer horizon, he said, mobilising domestic capital, incentivising corporate participation, and nurturing ventures in high-potential sectors like fintech, agritech and climate-tech will be crucial. “The $53 million raised last year proved what’s achievable.

This year’s slowdown is a reminder that sustained success requires deliberate effort, we need to put in place systems that make Tanzania a regular destination for investors, not a market that experiences occasional peaks,” he stressed. .

Mwanza. The breathtaking landscapes of the Serengeti will once again echo with the rhythm of running shoes as the eighth edition of the Serengeti Safari Marathon brings together athletes, environmentalists, and tourists in a powerful celebration of sport, sustainability, and tourism.

The event, scheduled for November 15 at Ndabaka, Serengeti in Mara Region, is set to attract both local and elite foreign runners from Kenya and other African nations. Participants will compete in the 42km full marathon, 21km half marathon, 10km, and 5km fun run categories.

More than 2,000 local and international athletes are expected to take part in the race, competing not just for medals and records–but also for a greener planet. Among those expected to light up the event is Tokyo World Marathon champion Alphonce Simbu, who will headline the elite lineup and inspire upcoming runners with his presence and performance.

Serengeti Safari Marathon Director Timothy Mdinka said the marathon goes far beyond the spirit of competition, its heartbeat lies in promoting responsible tourism, environmental stewardship, and local economic empowerment. “Each registered participant will receive at least five tree seedlings to plant anywhere they wish, especially in areas affected by deforestation,” said Mdinka.

“Through our Go Green Campaign, in partnership with the Tanzania Forest Services (TFS), we’re promoting sustainable tourism that gives back to nature. Every runner will get a race jersey and more than five tree seedlings,” he added.

This year’s theme, “Tourism Connects,” has already drawn an overwhelming response, with over 65 percent of participation tickets sold–including 200 purchased during the launch. Mdinka noted that the improved prize packages, quality medals, and rising international participation, particularly from Kenya, have elevated the event’s profile and excitement.

UNDP Assistant Resident Representative Amon Manyama underscored the marathon’s wider environmental and social significance. “UNDP remains committed to supporting initiatives that protect Tanzania’s natural resources, ensuring they continue to benefit communities today and for generations to come,” he said.

Representing the Mwanza Regional Commissioner, Ilemela District Commissioner Amiri Mkalipa applauded the marathon’s creative approach in linking sports, tourism, and conservation. “There can be no tourism without conservation.

Giving tree seedlings to runners is a brilliant idea–this event is not just a race; it’s a statement of care for our environment,” he said. John Semkubai, Senior Tourism Officer at the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, reaffirmed the government’s support, calling sports tourism a vital engine for the country’s economic and environmental goals.

.

Dar es Salaam. The chairman of the opposition party Chadema, Mr Tundu Lissu, has ignited a legal debate in his ongoing treason trial by questioning the education level of the second prosecution witness.

The dispute arose during cross-examination on Monday October 13, 2025, at the High Court in Dar es Salaam, where Mr Lissu probed the witness over the content of his written and oral testimony given under oath. As part of the questioning, Mr Lissu asked the witness about his secondary school qualifications, including the grades he achieved in the Form Four examinations.

This line of questioning was strongly opposed by the prosecution, prompting a legal argument over its relevance. The court intervened and ruled in favour of the prosecution’s objection.

Mr Lissu faces a treason charge, accused of making statements intended to intimidate the government of the United Republic of Tanzania. He is alleged to have vowed on April 3, 2025, via social media, to block elections.

He’s accused of uttering; “we say we will stop the elections, incite rebellion this is the way to achieve change we will disrupt the elections we will provoke seriously” The trial is being heard by a three-judge panel led by Justice Dunstan Ndunguru, with Justices James Karayemaha and Ferdinand Kiwonde, at the High Court’s Dar es Salaam registry. The second prosecution witness, Police Inspector John Kaaya, serves in the Cyber Crime Investigation Unit, Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), in Dar es Salaam.

During the cross-examination, Mr Lissu asked: Lissu: “Have you ever attended primary school?” Witness: “Yes.” Lissu: “When?” Witness: “From 1989 to 1995.” Lissu: “Which schools?” Witness: “I attended Nganyeni Marangu Primary School and Lyakirimu Primary School, Marangu, Moshi, Kilimanjaro.

” On secondary education: Lissu: “Have you ever attended secondary school?” Witness: “Yes, from 1996 to 1999 at Lyakirimu Secondary School.” Lissu: “What division did you obtain in Form Four?” At this point, the prosecution, led by Senior State Attorney Ajuaye Zegeli, objected, arguing that the question was irrelevant under Section 167 of the Tanzania Evidence Act (TEA).

The objection was supported by Senior State Attorney Nassoro Katuga, who emphasised that private details such as examination results are protected and unrelated to the witness’ ability to give evidence. Responding to the objection, Mr Lissu insisted that the witness’ education was relevant, particularly in assessing his suitability to serve as a police officer, citing Police General Orders (PGO) 53(10) and 54(1), which require secondary school education for recruitment and promotion within the force.

Mr Lissu argued that understanding the witness’ educational background was essential to evaluate his competence and credibility. “The witness was extensively questioned about his qualifications in his testimony.

It is important to know if he meets the standards for a police officer; if he scored zero in his division, he would not be suitable,” Mr Lissu argued. He further contended that the prosecution’s reliance on Section 167 of TEA was misplaced, because the witness’s education directly affects his credibility and professional qualifications.

“They cannot claim this evidence is irrelevant. To be a police officer and to be promoted, one must have the required education.

I am seeking to understand what type of witnesses the prosecution has brought in terms of their education and expertise,” Lissu said. In response, Senior State Attorney Katuga maintained that the objection was about the division obtained, not the level of education, and that the latter was not in dispute.

He added that PGO provisions cited by Mr Lissu refer generally to education, not to the exact grades, and that specific results are protected under privacy laws. The court ultimately ruled in favour of the prosecution’s objection, limiting Lissu’s questioning to the level of education attained by the witness, without delving into specific grades.

“Even the Police General Orders only refer to the level of education, not the detailed results,” said Justice Ndunguru in his ruling, after which Lissu continued his cross-examination, asking various other questions of the witness. .

Dar es Salaam. If you thought the launch of Phase II of the Dar es Salaam bus rapid transit (BRT) would push minibuses, bajajis and motorcycles out of business, then you may need to think again.

The start of BRT services along the MbagalaKilwa corridor appears set to complement, rather than replace, other modes of public transport used by thousands of commuters travelling between the city centre and the densely populated Mbagala area. A BRT bus during trial runs on the Phase 2 route between Gerezani and Mbalaga in Dar es Salaam yesterday.

The trials began two years after the necessary infrastructure was completed. Residents and operators of minibuses, bajajis and motorcycles who spoke to The Citizen yesterday described the launch as a “vital complement” to their businesses.

In line with its earlier announcement, the BRT officially began passenger trials along the MbagalaKilwa route at the weekend. Chief government spokesperson Gerson Msigwa confirmed yesterday that the trial runs, conducted by Mofat Company, had started two days earlier and had now advanced to include passengers.

“The trials began on Saturday when the buses operated without passengers. Today they have started carrying passengers.

We will continue in this phase while gradually increasing the number of buses on the route,” he said. Phase II of the BRT involves 250 buses operated by Mofat Company under a 12-year contract.

All buses are powered by natural gas, aligning with the government’s commitment to cleaner and more sustainable urban transport. The launch of the Mbagala route marks a major milestone in efforts to ease congestion and improve commuting efficiency in Dar es Salaam.

Officials say the new BRT phase will significantly cut travel time between Mbagala and the city centre, offering a reliable and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional public transport. However, local transport operators are optimistic that the new service will not edge them out of business.

They believe demand for transport in Mbagala is simply too high for the BRT alone to handle. Speaking to The Citizen, the treasurer of the Mbagala Rangi Tatu bodaboda station, Mr Said Khamis, said the system’s launch was long overdue.

“We don’t see the BRT as competition. It has come to fill the gaps in public transport.

Mbagala has many passengers and even after using the BRT, they still need to reach their homes. That’s where we come in to complete the journey,” he said.

Mbagala serves as a vital transport hub linking several wards within Temeke District including Mbagala Kuu, Chamazi, Charambe, Toangoma, Mianzini, Kiburugwa and Kijichi. It is also a hub that links residents of Msongola and those as far as Zingiziwa and Chanika in Ilala District as well as those from Mkuranga, Mwandege, Vikindu and Vianzi wards in Mkuranga District, Coast Region.

“The BRT ends at Mbagala, so we’ll still be required to ferry people to and from nearby areas. That means there’s still plenty of business for us,” he added.

A bajaji driver, Mr Shafii Mtiba, shared similar views, saying that while they may initially lose some long-distance passengers, new opportunities were opening up. “In the mornings, we usually take many people to town, so that might change.

But now we’ll focus on local routes, taking passengers from BRT drop-off points to their homes. It’s about working together to serve the people,” he said.

Mr Khamis said that bodaboda riders were being reminded to observe traffic rules, particularly avoiding exclusive BRT lanes to ensure the system operates smoothly. For a small trader and long-time Mbagala resident, Ms Sharifa Yusuph, the BRT launch brings relief after years of unreliable transport.

However, she cautioned against repeating past mistakes such as irregular schedules and long waits. “Transport here has always been a major challenge, especially during peak hours.

If the government is serious, this system should serve people reliably, not just become another political statement,” she said. Commuters who boarded the new BRT buses also expressed optimism mixed with concerns.

A resident of Mwandege in Mkuranga District, Mr Juma Abdul said his trip from Mbagala to Gerezani yesterday was impressive but noted operational issues. “I waited almost an hour for the bus at Mbagala Rangi Tatu Station since only a few have been deployed so far,” he said.

Abdul observed that some passengers queued for long periods to buy electronic payment cards needed for access to BRT stations. “Many waited until the last minute because the launch had been postponed several times, so they were unsure it would really start.

Some even paid others with cards to get access,” Mr Abdul said. With the services still new, several bajajis and motorcycles were still observed plying the BRT lanes as of yesterday, something that will have to cease as services proceed.

.

Arusha. A 30-year-old police officer, Omary Mnandi, a resident of Arusha City, was brutally killed after being struck on the head with a blunt object in what is believed to have been a case of mistaken identity on the night of October 11, 2025. The incident occurred at around 11 p.

m. at Simaloi Bar in the Kaloleni area of Arusha, where five suspects have been arrested in connection with the killing.

Arusha Regional Police Commander, SACP Justine Masejo, said preliminary investigations indicate that the incident happened after the late Mnandi, who was reportedly intoxicated, mistakenly entered a vehicle belonging to one of the suspects instead of his own. “The deceased, who was driving a car with registration number T 402 CNC, entered another vehicle, registration number T 734 AXR, and fell asleep inside.

Upon finding him there, the suspects attacked him, inflicting fatal head injuries,” SACP Masejo said. He said that five suspects have been detained for questioning as investigations continue before further legal action is taken.

“The Arusha Regional Police Force is finalising its investigation into this incident to ensure the suspects face justice,” he said. The body of the deceased has been preserved at Mount Meru Regional Referral Hospital pending burial arrangements.

Witnesses at the scene said Mnandi had been drinking with two fellow police officers at the bar before the tragic incident occurred. One witness, Richard Levina, said the three arrived earlier in the evening and were enjoying alcoholic drinks when Mnandi, feeling tired, decided to rest in his car.

“Unfortunately, he mistakenly opened and entered another vehicle parked nearby, believing it was his own,” Levina said. He said that when the car owners returned and found an unfamiliar man sleeping inside, they panicked and attacked him with a metal object, assuming he was a robber.

“The blows caused severe head injuries that led to his instant death,” Levina said. According to further reports, the late Officer Mnandi was living in the police housing quarters in the Fire area of Arusha and was scheduled to be transported to Tanga, his birthplace, for burial on October 12, 2025. .

Geita/Shinyanga. In the mineral-rich heartlands of Geita and Shinyanga, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) presidential candidate, President Samia Suluhu Hassan, has pledged a new chapter for small-scale miners, promising to deepen reforms that have already transformed lives in the mining sector.

Addressing a rally in Bukombe District, Geita Region, on Sunday, October 12, 2025, President Hassan reminded residents of how far they had come since the government decided to formalise small-scale mining and grant licences to locals. “Young people here in Bukombe used to sneak into the Kigosi forest to mine gold illegally,” she said.

“But since God placed these minerals in your land, it is only fair that you benefit from them. I instructed Ministers Biteko and Mavunde to issue licences so that my sons and daughters could mine legally and earn from their resources,” she said, noting: “That is exactly what has happened, and now both youth and women are expanding their economic opportunities through mining with most of you becoming bilionaires.

” The President said if elected her government will strengthen geological research to identify new mineral zones, noting that only 16 percent of Tanzania’s mineral-rich land has been surveyed so far. “We have made Mbogwe a recognised mining district because of its immense potential.

When you re-elect us, we shall invest in research to discover more sites, enabling more young people to engage in mining and contribute to our national income,” she said in Mbogwe District. She added that alongside mining development, her government will continue improving essential social services such as clean water, healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

Currently, she said, 86 percent of Mbogwe residents have access to clean and safe water. Government’s commitment to miners The Minister for Minerals, Mr Anthony Mavunde, praised President Hassan’s directive that led to the issuance of 7,977 licences to small-scale miners, including women in Bukombe.

“Before her leadership, many miners operated in hiding,” Mavunde said. “But under her instructions, no one was left behind.

We have distributed licences to all, and we have also procured drilling machines worth Sh9 billion, 15 in total, deployed across the country, with one sent here to Bukombe.” He added that previously, Bukombe lacked mineral markets and buying centres, forcing miners to travel long distances to sell their gold.

“Following her directive, we established two official markets and three buying centres, bringing services closer to the people. Miners now sell their minerals freely and safely,” Mavunde noted.

Voices from the ground A 33-year-old small-scale miner from Ushirombo, Mr Dotto Msenye, said life has changed drastically since licences were issued. “Before, we worked in fear of being arrested,” he said.

“Now we operate legally. I can support my family, and I’ve even built a house from my earnings.

The President’s reforms have restored dignity to our work.” Similarly, Ms Saida Mwita, a mother of three who runs a small processing centre, said legalisation has empowered women.

“We are now part of the mining economy,” she said. “Women can own licences and trade openly.

The income has helped us send our children to school and expand our businesses.” Bukombe MP and Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Doto Biteko, said President Hassan’s leadership has turned Bukombe into a vibrant mining hub.

“In the past, people used to mine in fear,” he said. “Today, our people dig gold confidently and earn decent incomes.

You have worked miracles here, and we in Bukombe have decided–we’re moving forward with you.” He insisted: “Bukombe is now a mining powerhouse” Rounding off her campaign in Kahama, Shinyanga Region, on October 11, 2025, President Hassan emphasised the next plan to modernise the sector using advanced exploration technology.

“We will continue empowering small miners by giving them modern drilling machines and using aerial technology to map and identify new mineral deposits,” she said. “We cannot ignore large investors, but our top priority remains small-scale miners.

” Industry leaders back Samia The president of the Federation of Miners Associations of Tanzania (FEMATA), Mr John Bina, lauded President Hassan’s commitment to the sector, which employs an estimated six million Tanzanians. “President Samia is the choice of miners because she respects and empowers us,” he said.

“She has provided equipment through STAMICO, created an enabling business environment, and ensured that both local and foreign investors thrive. If the current pace continues, the mining sector could soon contribute over 30 percent to the national GDP.

” As she concluded her speech, cheers erupted across the rally grounds, with miners waving placards reading Mama wa Dhahabu Yetu (Mother of Our Gold). .

Dar es Salaam. There is renewed hope for smoother commuting in the city as Phase II of the Dar es Salaam Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project has officially begun passenger trials along the MbagalaKilwa corridor.

Government Spokesperson Gerson Msigwa confirmed yesterday that the trial runs, conducted by Mofat Company, started two days ago and have now advanced to include passengers. “The trials began the day before yesterday and yesterday the buses operated without passengers.

Today, Sunday, they have started carrying passengers. We will continue in this phase while gradually increasing the number of buses on the route,” said Mr Msigwa.

The second phase of the BRT will involve 250 buses operated by Mofat Company, which has been awarded a 12-year contract to provide services on the corridor. All the buses will be powered by natural gas, in line with the government’s commitment to promoting cleaner and more sustainable public transport.

The launch of the Mbagala route marks a significant milestone in the city’s efforts to ease congestion and improve commuting efficiency for thousands of Dar es Salaam residents. Officials say the new BRT phase is expected to cut travel time between Mbagala and the city centre, offering a reliable and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional public transport.

.

Dodoma. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has nullified 10 wards and relocated 292 polling stations as part of administrative boundary adjustments announced by the government earlier this month.

According to a statement issued on Sunday, October 12, 2025 by INEC Chairperson Justice Jacobs Mwambegele, the decision follows the abolition of several areas previously hosting polling stations, leading to the reassignment of voters to new locations. Justice Mwambegele said the commission’s move aligns with Government Notice No.

596 of October 3, 2025, in which the Minister for Home Affairs declared Ulyankulu in Kaliua District (Tabora Region), Katumba in Mpanda District (Katavi Region) and Mishamo in Tanganyika District (Katavi Region) as designated refugee settlements. He further noted that under Government Notice No.

600 of October 3, 2025, the Minister of State in the President’s Office (Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG) announced administrative boundary changes that abolished the wards of Litapunga, Kanoge, Katumba, Mishamo, Ilangu, Bulamata, and Ipwaga, as well as Milambo, Igombenkulu, and Kanindo. As a result, seven councillor candidates from the ruling party Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) who had been nominated to contest in the affected wards have been disqualified from the October elections.

Those disqualified are Elius Elia (Katumba), Salehe Msompola (Kanoge), Mohamed Asenga (Litapunga), Nicas Nibengo (Bulamata), Sadick Mathew (Ilangu), Rehan Sekota (Ipwaga), and Juma Kansimba (Mishamo). Justice Mwambegele said the commission reached the decision during its meeting on October 6, 2025, after reviewing the government notices, and subsequently issued official resolutions through Government Notice No.

604 of October 10, 2025. “The commission has formally nullified the 10 abolished wards from the list of electoral areas for the 2025 councillor elections and revoked the nominations of seven candidates who had been selected in those wards,” he said. He added that for Milambo, Igombenkulu, and Kanindo wards in Kaliua District, no election processes had yet been conducted.

Justice Mwambegele also said INEC, in consultation with local government authorities, has established new polling centres near the areas where voters were relocated. The number of new centres matches the 292 polling stations that were nullified to ensure that all eligible voters can access polling stations conveniently.

.

Yaounde. Cameroonians were set to vote on Sunday in a presidential election where incumbent Paul Biya, the world’s oldest ruler at 92, is widely expected to maintain his 43-year grip on power despite an energized opposition pushing for change.

Biya’s opponents include former government spokesperson Issa Tchiroma, 76, who has drawn large crowds demanding an end to the veteran leader’s long tenure. Tchiroma’s bid has drawn endorsements from a platform of some opposition parties and civic groups.

However, analysts say that Biya, in power since 1982, is likely to be re-elected given his firm control of state machinery and the fragmented nature of the opposition. DECADES OF ECONOMIC STAGNATION His critics are still hoping he can be ousted after decades of economic stagnation and tensions in the Central African nation of 30 million people, an oil and cocoa producer.

In the Briqueterie neighbourhood of the capital Yaounde, driver Hassane Djbril said he hoped the election would bring change. “For 43 years, Cameroonians have been suffering.

There are no jobs,” said Djbril, who plans to vote for Tchiroma. “We want change because the current government is dictatorial.

” Biya’s government has always denied this, saying Cameroon is a democratic country with regular free elections. Voting starts at 0700 GMT and ends at 1700 GMT, with results expected within 15 days.

Biya abolished term limits in 2008 and has long deployed divide-and-rule tactics. The single-round electoral system gives victory to the candidate with a simple majority.

“A surprise is still possible, but a divided opposition and the backing of a formidable electoral machine will, we predict, give the 92-year-old his eighth term,” said Francois Conradie, lead political economist at Oxford Economics. “Biya has remained in power for nearly 43 years by deftly dividing his adversaries, and, although we think he isn’t very aware of what is going on, it seems that the machine he built will divide to rule one last time,” Conradie added in a note.

BIYA’S SLOGAN IS ‘GREATNESS AND HOPE’ Under the slogan “Greatness and Hope,” Biya has held just one campaign rally in the northern city of Maroua, relying on tightly controlled state media and posts on social media, while his team promises more economic development. “For me, things have only gotten worse.

Nothing has changed. Nothing has changed,” said Herves Mitterand, a mechanic in the commercial capital, Douala.

“We want to see that change, we want to see it actually happen. We don’t want to just keep hearing words anymore.

” .