Category: The Citizen

Dar es Salaam . President Samia Suluhu Hassan has set out a series of fundamental questions that the newly inaugurated Commission of Inquiry must answer as it begins investigating the October 29 unrest, signalling a deep examination of the political, social and institutional triggers behind the violence.

Launching the three-month probe in Dar es Salaam on November 20, 2025, President Hassan said the disturbances, unprecedented in scale in recent years, had shaken the nation’s confidence. She called the episode “something none of us ever expected to witness,” given Tanzania’s long-standing reputation for peace and stability.

As the commission begins its work under the 2023 Commissions of Inquiry Act, the President laid out the central pillars of the investigation, framing them as essential to uncovering the truth and charting a credible path toward reconciliation. What sparked the crisis? The President’s first and most pressing question is the true origin of the unrest.

“Identify the root causes of the incident the real reason, the real spark, the purpose,” she told the commissioners. Determining whether the crisis was political, economic or coordinated remains a central task.

Why did so many young people take to the streets? President Hassan highlighted the need to understand the motivation and mobilisation of youths who participated in the protests. “What right were these young people demanding? What exactly did they feel they had been denied?” Their grievances–whether genuine or influenced–are expected to form a critical part of the inquiry’s assessment.

Did political rhetoric fuel the violence? The President directed the commission to scrutinise statements by political actors before and during the unrest, including provocative remarks such as “something must burn,” “there will be no peace,” and “the election will not happen.” The commission will investigate whether such rhetoric inflamed tensions or directly contributed to the escalation.

What was the relationship between political parties and the electoral commission? Another key question concerns the dynamics between political parties and the National Electoral Commission. “What was their relationship like at the time, and did it influence the situation?” President Hassan asked, underscoring the need to assess institutional trust and communication.

Did NGOs – local or foreign–play a role? The commission has also been tasked with investigating allegations that some youths were financially induced to join demonstrations. “If money was involved, where did it come from? What role, if any, did our NGOs play?” the President asked.

The inquiry will review the organisational, financial and operational dimensions of the unrest. Could political tensions have been resolved without violence? The President challenged the commission to examine whether alternative, non-violent avenues existed for addressing disputes between government institutions and political parties.

“Even if there were challenges was violence the only option?” she posed. Balancing scepticism and confidence Some opposition leaders have dismissed the inquiry, saying no domestic body can deliver an impartial outcome and calling instead for an international probe involving the UN, AU or EU.

President Hassan acknowledged the mistrust but defended the committee’s capacity. “Our colleagues in the opposition say they have no confidence in any local commission,” she said.

“But I have great confidence in this team–your expertise, your experience.” Scrutinising the state’s response In addition to the causes of the unrest, the commission will review how state institutions–including the police and defence forces–handled the situation.

Retired heads of the armed forces have been included to ensure knowledgeable scrutiny of whether responses were lawful, proportionate and in line with security protocols. Setting the stage for reconciliation President Hassan said the inquiry’s findings would shape the forthcoming Truth and Reconciliation Commission, whose formation she had previously pledged.

“Its recommendations will guide the agenda of the Reconciliation Commission,” she said, expressing confidence that the process will help the nation move forward. “I believe the recommendations of this commission will help us to heal and progress,” she said .

Kigoma. In a move to strengthen post-harvest management and local food systems, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), with support from the Governments of Ireland and Norway, has officially handed over the Kasasa community warehouses to Kasulu District Council.

The project included the full rehabilitation of the Kasasa warehouses, which are designed to serve around 1,500 farmers in Kakonko District, with a total storage capacity of 350 metric tons. The facilities are a major investment aimed at improving food quality, reducing crop losses, and expanding market access for smallholder farmers.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, Kakonko District Commissioner Evance Mallasa, joined by district officials and community representatives, said farmers had long stored harvests at home, where exposure to moisture, pests and poor storage conditions undermined quality and made inventory management difficult. “I would like to convey my sincere appreciation to the Governments of Ireland, Norway, and WFP for rehabilitating this warehouse.

Given Kakonko’s heavy rainfall, farmers have struggled to keep produce safe. Now we finally have a secure place to store crops, protect quality, reduce losses, and avoid selling at low prices,” Mr Mallasa said.

WFP Kasulu Sub-Office Head, Mr Saidi Johari, highlighted the importance of maximising donor investments, noting that the handover represents a key step in the agency’s efforts to build rural resilience and promote sustainable agricultural practices. “By improving storage capacity and reducing losses, smallholder farmers are better positioned to safeguard harvests, access profitable markets, and increase household incomes.

Donor support must translate into tangible benefits for the people of Kakonko,” he said. Through the initiative, WFP has rehabilitated and constructed modern, safe storage structures, equipping them with essential aggregation tools.

These upgrades ensure farmers have access to reliable storage that meets national crop quality standards. .

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania football giants Young Africans (Yanga) and Simba SC are preparing for the CAF Champions League group stage, with their coaches looking to make history in the continental competition.

Yanga are now under Portuguese tactician Pedro Gonaalves, while Simba are led by Bulgarian coach Dimitar Pantev. Yanga will host Moroccan giants AS FAR on Saturday at the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar, and Simba will face Angolan side Atletico Petroleos de Luanda on Sunday at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 4pm East African time.

Both Gonaalves and Pantev have yet to feature in the CAF Champions’ League group stage as head coaches, which makes this tournament an important milestone in their careers. Both coaches bring a wealth of experience in African football and are expected to apply their knowledge and tactical expertise to lead their respective clubs.

Dimitar Pantev Pantev began his managerial career in 2006 and has coached clubs in Bulgaria and across Africa. In Africa, he has led teams such as Cameroon’s Victoria United, Sierra Leone’s FC Johansen, and two Botswana clubs, Orapa United in 2024 and Gaborone United in 2025, before joining Simba SC.

Despite Orapa United competing three times in CAF competitions, Pantev was not part of their technical bench. Orapa United featured in the CAF Confederation Cup in 2017 and 2019 and qualified for the CAF Champions League group stage in 2025. He also coached FC Johansen, which participated in the CAF Confederation Cup in 2013, and Victoria United, which has yet to appear in CAF competitions.

Pantev made his CAF competition debut with Gaborone United of Bostwana when they faced Simba. The team lost 10 at home in the first leg but managed a 11 draw in the return match, which resulted in their elimination.

With Simba, Pantev will now coach in the CAF Champions’ League group stage for the first time, aiming to secure a historic breakthrough for himself and the club. Pedro Gonaalves For Pedro Gonaalves, this CAF Champions League campaign also represents a continental debut.

Gonaalves began his managerial career in 1996 and has extensive experience in Portugal, including a long stint at Sporting CP as a scout and academy coach from 2000 to 2015. He later joined the youth setup of Angola’s Primeiro de Agosto from 2015 to 2018, before being appointed head coach of the U-17 and U-20 national teams in 2018 and 2019. Gonaalves subsequently served as the head coach of the Angola senior national team for seven years before joining Yanga in October 2025. During his career, Gonaalves has won several honours, including the COSAFA Cup for the U-17 team in 2018 and the senior national team in 2024 and 2025. He managed the Angola senior team in 63 matches, recording 22 wins, 27 draws, and 14 losses. The recent coaching appointments have set the stage for both tacticians to make their mark in the CAF Champions’ League group stage.

Their debut in the group stage presents a unique opportunity to build their continental legacy and make a significant impact in Tanzania’s top clubs. As the matches approach, all eyes will be on Pantev and Gonaalves, who are eager to achieve success at the highest level of African club football.

Their leadership will be crucial in navigating tough opponents and securing historic results, while also demonstrating the growing stature of Tanzanian football on the continental stage. .

Moscow. Russian President Vladimir Putin will meet Togo’s president, Faure Gnassingbe, in the Kremlin on Wednesday for talks that will focus on developing ties between Moscow and the tiny phosphate-producing country on the West African coast.

Gnassingbe, whose family has ruled Togo since 1967, was invited to visit Russia by Putin, Togo said in a statement. “Their Excellencies will hold a one-on-one meeting focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in the fields of diplomacy, economy, trade, agriculture, energy, training, and food security,” it said.

Russia’s growing clout in Africa, including in countries such as Angola, Central African Republic, Equatorial Guinea, Libya, Madagascar, Mali and Mozambique, is viewed with concern by Western European states and the United States. Russia sells grain to Togo.

Russia is the world’s second-largest fertiliser producer behind China and the largest global exporter of fertiliser. .

Dar es Salaam. The Bank of Tanzania (BoT) has ruled out selling its gold reserves despite global prices reaching historic highs, saying its purchases are intended to diversify the country’s foreign exchange stock rather than generate trading profits.

BoT Governor Mr Emmanuel Tutuba said the central bank would only consider selling gold if the country needed additional foreign currency, noting that the current position remains strong. “Tanzania holds about $6.4 billion in foreign exchange reserves (excluding gold), enough to cover five months of imports,” he said.

“We also continue to receive steady inflows of foreign currency from agricultural and mineral exports, as well as tourism.” His remarks came as gold continued to show exceptional strength through October and mid-November.

In mid-October, global prices hit a record high of around $4,180 per ounce. Although early November saw a brief dip as the US dollar strengthened and expectations of Federal Reserve rate cuts softened, prices rebounded above $4,200 per ounce by November 1314 amid renewed optimism that the Fed will cut rates in December.

From October to mid-November 2025, gold prices remained elevated, supported by expectations of lower interest rates, strong safe-haven demand, central bank buying and rising investment flows–despite occasional volatility triggered by shifting macroeconomic conditions. On the mining front, small-scale miners are already feeling the impact of the price rally.

Ms Nurath Athumani, Secretary of the Imalabuhabi Miners’ Group in Butundwe Division, Geita Region, said the surge had brought much-needed relief. “Currently, gold prices have increased from about Sh80,000 to between Sh200,000 and Sh300,000 per gram,” she said.

“For us miners, this is a significant blessing. It allows us to earn better returns on the long and difficult hours we spend in the mines.

” She said most of their gold is sold at the Geita Gold Market, which offers regulated and transparent pricing, as well as safer trading conditions than informal buyers. “These prices give us hope for greater financial stability and better living conditions for our families,” she added.

Independent financial analyst Mr Christopher Makombe said the rising price of gold reflects ongoing geopolitical tensions that continue to push investors toward safe-haven assets. He noted that central banks worldwide remain active buyers.

“Higher prices mean Tanzania earns more dollars from exports, strengthening foreign reserves and helping stabilise the shilling,” he said. “This can ease inflationary pressures driven by imported goods, especially fuel and machinery.

” Mr Makombe added that higher prices boost profits for mining companies, resulting in increased government tax revenues. Rising prices also tend to attract new investments in exploration, extraction and processing.

“Tanzania could see expansion of existing mines, issuance of new mining licences and growing interest from foreign investors,” he said. He noted that mining expansion stimulates demand for labour and local suppliers–such as transport, catering, engineering and other support services–and that small-scale miners stand to benefit from higher incomes, which could strengthen rural household earnings and reduce poverty.

Supporting sectors, including gold refining, banking, insurance and logistics, also benefit from a buoyant mining industry. However, Mr Makombe warned that overreliance on gold revenues could expose the economy to global price fluctuations.

“Diversification remains essential for sustainable economic development,” he said. “Overall, higher gold prices are generally positive for Tanzania.

They enhance government revenue, attract investment, create jobs and strengthen the shilling through increased foreign exchange earnings,” he stressed. .

Dar es Salaam. A new investment product has been launched to offer local and foreign investors direct access to shares of major companies across the East African Community (EAC).

The iTrust East African Community Large Cap Exchange Traded Fund (IEACLC-ETF) was introduced yesterday, marking a significant development for the regional investment landscape. The ETF is regulated by the CMSA, with NBC Bank serving as custodian of investor assets.

iTrust Finance CEO, Faiz Arab, said the introduction of the IEACLC-ETF marks a significant step forward for Tanzania’s investment landscape. “This ETF opens a new chapter for investors in Tanzania.

For the first time, individuals can access a professionally managed regional fund through a simple and affordable product,” he said. Arab noted that East Africa remains one of the continent’s fastest-growing regions, and the fund provides a convenient entry point for investors seeking exposure to that growth.

The ETF is designed to lower investment barriers and enable both new and experienced investors to participate in the region’s economic expansion through a diversified basket of large, stable companies. He added that the fund’s structure emphasises transparency and investor protection whilst reducing concentration risk and enhancing long-term return potential as share values appreciate.

Through the ETF, investors will hold units linked to shares listed on the Dar es Salaam Stock Exchange (DSE), Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE), Uganda Securities Exchange (USE), and Rwanda Stock Exchange (RSE). The fund tracks a blended benchmark index that incorporates all four markets, offering broad regional exposure.

The Initial Public Offering (IPO) opened on November 17, and runs until 12th December 2025, with a minimum investment of Sh100,000–making the product accessible to a wide range of investors. Once listed on the DSE, the ETF units will trade freely at market prices.

The Capital Markets and Securities Authority (CMSA), which regulates the ETF, used the occasion to reaffirm its commitment to fostering an enabling environment that encourages both public and private institutions to utilise capital markets as a sustainable source of financing for national development. NBC Bank will serve as the custodian of investor assets.

Speaking at the launch event, CMSA Director of Policy, Research and Planning, Alfred Mkombo, said capital markets are a reliable avenue for long-term financing, particularly as the government and businesses seek alternatives to traditional borrowing. “Capital markets stimulate economic development by enabling access to funds and strengthening good governance in the management of companies and institutions so they can operate efficiently,” Mkombo said.

“When organisations raise capital through the markets, they reduce dependence on expensive debt, improve accountability, and support sustainable investment.” He emphasised that Tanzania’s development ambitions, including infrastructure expansion, industrialisation, and technological growth, require diversified financing sources.

Capital markets, he noted, offer predictable, transparent, and cost-effective funding that can ease fiscal pressures whilst empowering private-sector growth. .

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania may need to rely more on domestic resources to finance development projects, President Samia Suluhu Hassan has said.

Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony for newly appointed ministers in Dodoma yesterday President Hassan said concessional financing from donors, most of which is used to finance development projects, could be affected by the country’s tarnished image following the October 29 unrest. She tasked members of the new Cabinet with working diligently to mobilise domestic resources, including leveraging natural resources such as minerals to attract financing.

She said the election-related violence could undermine the trust of development partners, prompting a shift from heavy donor dependence to increased domestic resource mobilisation. “In my first term, financing was readily available because there was trust.

What happened in our country has tarnished our image, and this could reduce donor confidence,” President Hassan said during a live broadcast. “We must therefore use the resources we have to attract more funding and ensure that the projects we promised are delivered with speed.

” Her remarks referred to the unrest on October 29, 2025, when Tanzanians went to the polls to elect the President, Members of Parliament, and Ward Councillors. The unrest erupted in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Mbeya, Mwanza and other regions, with demonstrators protesting against the continuation of the polls.

Rioters vandalised public and private property, setting fire to polling stations, police posts, Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) terminals, political party offices, fuel stations, shops, and bars, resulting in fatalities. Call for prudent financial management In response to these developments, economists are urging the government to prioritise careful financial management, including reducing unnecessary expenditures such as luxury vehicles (Shangingi) for senior officials, which carry high procurement and fuel costs.

Greater scrutiny is also needed over Other Costs (OCs), a catch-all category for expenses not classified under personnel, materials, systems, or outsourced services. President Hassan instructed the new ministers to work with urgency and professionalism, emphasising that poor performance would not be tolerated.

She reminded them that their appointments followed rigorous vetting, not privilege. “You were selected from more than 300 Members of Parliament.

It is not because you are exceptionally better, but because there was rigorous vetting. So, you must serve the citizens.

I have also taken an oath, and I will be right behind you,” she said. She noted that funds from development partners often come with numerous conditions and delays in disbursement.

“Given this, our projects must continue using the resources we have. If donor funds eventually arrive, they should find work already underway,” she stressed.

“We have limited resources, so we must use them wisely. Ministers must act quickly to ensure citizens experience development.

Time is short, and there is much to be done,” she added. Economists suggest strategies for growth Independent economist Oscar Mkude told The Citizen that reducing unnecessary expenditures would free domestic resources for development.

He also urged stronger support for producers, particularly in agriculture and livestock, to boost productivity and exports, increasing foreign currency inflows. “There are already people producing for export; they should be further supported, including promoting short-cycle livestock production that can be sold abroad,” he said.

Mkude also called for value addition in sectors such as gold, horticulture, and other agricultural commodities to attract investment and expand exports. He emphasised that long-term planning is crucial for rebuilding confidence with development partners, noting that compromised trust can reduce foreign direct investment.

Another economist, Renatus Mbamilo, outlined three strategies for mobilising domestic resources: issuing long-term government bonds for citizens to purchase, securing loans from well-capitalised foreign banks under strict oversight, and, as a last resort, increasing taxes in selected sectors. He cautioned that higher taxes could deter investment and slow economic growth.

As Tanzania enters a new phase of government leadership, ministries face mounting pressure to stabilise investor sentiment, strengthen domestic revenue sources, and ensure that key development projects remain on track. Dr Lutengano Mwinuka, an economics lecturer at the University of Dodoma, said there was an urgent need to revisit the national budget and reassess revenue and expenditure so that adjustments could be made.

He added that budget priorities would guide which areas require immediate attention, particularly those directly affecting citizens. “It is sensible to prepare now, exploring alternative domestic financing options as a measure to safeguard the economy from collapsee,” he said.

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Dar es Salaam. Tanzania’s representatives in the CAF Confederation Cup, Singida Black Stars, have declared full readiness ahead of their highly anticipated Group C opener against CR Belouizdad of Algeria on Saturday.

The crucial encounter is scheduled for 10pm East African Time at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Baraki, where Singida will be seeking a positive start to their maiden appearance in the continental competition. The Tanzanian outfit departed for Algeria yesterday, completing their final training sessions on home soil before switching focus to the challenging away fixture.

This is Singida Black Stars’ first-ever appearance in the CAF Confederation Cup group stage, marking a significant milestone for the fast-rising club. Group C is widely regarded as highly competitive.

Apart from Singida Black Stars and CR Belouizdad, the group features Stellenbosch FC of South Africa and Otoho d’Oyo of Congo Brazzaville. Stellenbosch and Otoho will meet on Sunday at 4pm EAT at the Danie Craven Stadium in Stellenbosch, a match that will also shape the dynamics of the group standings.

For Singida, Saturday’s clash carries added importance as they attempt to establish themselves as worthy contenders on the continent.Head coach Miguel Gamondi and his technical bench will rely on the experience, leadership, and composure of senior players Khalid Aucho and Clatous Chama–both of whom featured prominently for Young Africans (Yanga) in last season’s CAF Champions League.

In an intriguing sub-plot, Aucho and Chama will be reunited with their former head coach, Saed Ramovic, who briefly led Yanga before joining CR Belouizdad. Ramovic’s stint at Yanga lasted 81 days, during which he oversaw six matches before parting ways with the club.

Singida defender Nickson Kibabage, who also worked under Ramovic during his short tenure, adds further familiarity between the two sides. The knowledge Ramovic possesses about the Tanzanian players could influence the tactical approach of both teams, making preparation even more important for Singida.

Nonetheless, the Tanzanian side remains confident that their blend of experience, discipline, and ambition will help them navigate the difficult conditions often associated with North African fixtures. Singida Black Stars understand that a strong start away from home would significantly boost their chances of progressing to the knockout phase.

The players have expressed determination to prove that their qualification was no fluke and that they can compete with established continental sides such as Belouizdad, who have consistently featured in Caf competitions. .

Arusha. Members of the African Union Advisory Board Against Corruption (AUABC) have convened a six-day strategic retreat in Arusha to develop new approaches to tackle corruption across Africa.

The retreat comes as corruption continues to cost the continent an estimated $125 billion annually, equivalent to half of Africa’s domestic tax revenue and about 25 per cent of GDP. This marks an increase of over $25 billion from last year.

AUABC chairperson, Kwami Edem Senanu, said corruption undermines development, weakens infrastructure investment, and erodes public trust in government institutions. “Board members from legal, finance, procurement, and human resources sectors are examining internal systems to strengthen them and support African countries in addressing corrupt practices,” he said.

Senanu highlighted the role of digital technology in anti-corruption efforts. “Numerous digital tools can enhance our capacity to detect and prevent corrupt practices,” he said.

He also stressed the importance of youth, who make up over 60 per cent of Africa’s population. “The youth must lead in safeguarding resources that can unlock employment and economic opportunities,” he said.

Tanzanian board member, Benjamin Kapera, noted that corruption hampers economic growth and keeps countries dependent on foreign aid. He added that limited access to reliable information and weak witness protection discourage reporting and prosecution of corruption.

The retreat coincides with the AUABC’s 50th Ordinary Session, during which five new members were sworn in. Over the six days, the Board will review its 2025 work plan, finalise the 17th Activity Report for submission to the African Union Council of Ministers, and discuss the development of a Unified Code of Ethics for public officials across Africa.

The Board is also reviewing this year’s Africa Anti-Corruption Day (11 July) celebrations and planning more impactful campaigns for the future. .

Dar es Salaam. Political analysts and diplomats remain divided over the arrival of former Malawian President Dr Lazarus Chakwera, appointed by the Commonwealth as Special Envoy to Tanzania to support reconciliation efforts.

While some have welcomed the initiative, others have criticised the timing, arguing that the current crisis remains under local jurisdiction. Dar es Salaam-based lawyer Dr Onesmo Kyauke described the move as a crucial step in easing the country’s political tensions.

He noted that the Commonwealth has the authority to intervene in political disputes among member states and pointed to its mediation during Zanzibar’s 2000 election crisis as a positive example. “Dr Chakwera should focus on identifying the root causes and parties involved to facilitate dialogue and solutions.

They are mediators, not intruding on our sovereignty,” Dr Kyauke said, emphasising that the envoy’s role is supportive rather than interventionist. In contrast, diplomat Dr Benson Bana questioned the necessity of the visit, arguing that the unrest remains within the remit of national institutions.

“Our institutions and regional bodies such as the EAC, SADC, and AU are capable. It is too early for the Commonwealth to intervene,” he said.

Dr Bana added that an independent commission set up by President Samia Suluhu Hassan is already investigating the violence during protests on 29 and 30 October, which left several dead and caused substantial property and infrastructure damage. Dr Chakwera is expected in Tanzania today, 18 November, for a four-day visit.

He will hold discussions with government officials, political leaders, civil society representatives, religious and traditional authorities, as well as national and international stakeholders. The aim is to foster inclusive dialogue on reconciliation, democratic space, and political rights.

He will be accompanied by Commonwealth Deputy Secretary-General Professor Luis Franceschi. The Commonwealth, an association of independent nations formerly under British rule, has frequently played a mediatory role in member states during political crises.

Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey said Dr Chakwera’s experience will be critical in supporting constructive dialogue and promoting peace and stability. Accepting the appointment, Dr Chakwera said: “As a neighbour, I have closely followed Tanzania’s political situation and am ready to support the dialogue process.

” This is not the Commonwealth’s first mediation in Tanzania. In 1995, Chief Emeka Anyaoku appointed Dr Moses Anafu to mediate between CUF and CCM in Zanzibar, resulting in the first agreement that addressed electoral reforms, constitutional amendments, and compensation for victims of political unrest.

In her November 14, parliamentary address, President Hassan expressed sorrow over the recent violence and called on all stakeholders to support reconciliation efforts. .