CANDID TALK: Dear baby sis, don’t trade peace for Prada

Dear baby sis I remember the silly jokes my sister and I used to make about marrying a wealthy man even if he wasn’t good-looking hahahah! We’d say, “We’d rather cry in style somewhere in Dubai than cry in a broken-down house with a handsome, broke guy!” At the time, it was just wishful thinking, maybe a little foolish, but also honest. And here’s the thing, that joke carries a lesson we all need to hear.

Marrying a rich man can open doors, give comfort, and yes, bring material success, but it doesn’t automatically guarantee happiness. Chasing glitter over love can cost far more than pride , sometimes your freedom, your dignity, and your emotional sanity.

Take our Nigerian actress’s life as a cautionary example. Married young to a wealthy partner, she certainly enjoys financial stability and access to a glamorous lifestyleshe “won” in life in many ways.

But behind the Instagram posts, designer labels, and luxury cars, there’s also a weight of deep emotional pain. In a video that surfaced, the young actress was seen crying and alleging domestic violence, prompting fans to worry for her safety and well-being.

She later revealed feeling silenced, controlled, and powerless despite the wealth surrounding her. Court battles and public scrutiny followed, adding even more pressure.

Her story is a chilling reminder that luxury and wealth may provide comfort, but they’re no shield against heartbreak, abuse, or public judgement. Not all that glitters is gold, and luxury without peace is just decorated suffering So dear baby sis stop putting wealth as a non-negotiable on your husband checklist.

Forget the Lambo, the mansion, the fancy vacations. Instead, focus on love, respect, kindness, shared values, and emotional compatibility.

Then, while you’re at it, be the kind of man you wanted to marry.financially I mean.

Boss up, build your own career, your own savings, your own empire. That way, even if you marry someone wealthy, you won’t be trapped, dependent, or silent in a golden cage.

Now, don’t get me wrong a wealthy partner can make life comfortable. Yes, there will be nice cars, trips, designer bags, and a stress-free lifestyle with domestic staff doing the cooking and cleaning.

It’s tempting, no denying it. But comfort and luxury are not the same as joy, respect, or emotional fulfilment.

Money can make life easier, but it cannot make a bad marriage good, nor can it replace true happiness. Marrying rich might be a “safe” choice, but it is never a guaranteed path to peace or contentment.

All that glitters is not gold, and luxury without peace is just decorated suffering. Success isn’t measured by what’s in a husband’s wallet but by the life you build for yourself, the love you nurture, and the boundaries you fiercely protect.

So, next time you joke about marrying rich versus handsome, remember this, marry for love first, comfort second. Boss up on your own skills, your independence, your finances, and your confidence.

A rich partner can open doors, sure, but only you can choose to walk through them with joy, freedom, and dignity. Glitter may shine, but true happiness comes from a life well-built and well-loved.

And baby sis, life is too short to cry in a Lambo when you could be laughing in your own power suit laugh, thrive, and live on your own terms. .

Rainfall remains average as Tanzania’s weather agency sounds alarm on strong winds

Mbeya. The Southern Highlands regional manager of the Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA), Elius Lipiki, has told The Citizen that the current weather patterns are influenced by elevated sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean.

According to Lipiki, one of the reasons for the expected season of average to below-average rainfall across the country is the presence of unusually warm waters in the Pacific Ocean. These rains are forecast to begin in the second and third weeks of November 2025 and continue until May 2026, potentially causing flooding in homes, rivers, canals, and streams.

Speaking today, Lipiki urged the public–particularly farmers–to monitor weather forecasts closely and take necessary precautions. “Forecasts indicate the likelihood of average to below-average rainfall.

One of the contributing factors is the warm sea surface in the Pacific Ocean,” he explained. He highlighted possible consequences, including strong winds, flooding of residential areas, and overflowing rivers, canals, and streams, stressing that citizens should stay informed and prepared.

Despite these potential impacts, Lipiki encouraged farmers to utilise the rains as an opportunity to prepare their fields for planting crops, especially beans and maize. “We advise stakeholders in the agricultural sector, farmers, and experts to continuously follow weather forecasts to take early precautions,” he said.

He further explained that higher-than-average temperatures usually indicate a season with abundant rainfall. The TMA provides public education through the media to ensure communities can respond appropriately to seasonal trends.

“We recommend that the public and agricultural stakeholders follow five- or ten-day weather forecasts to better plan their crop production calendars, particularly during the expected rainy season,” Lipiki added. He also urged authorities in agriculture and water management, alongside agricultural experts, to use weather forecasts as a key tool for adapting to climate change and extreme weather conditions.

Farmers speak out Oriva Sanga, a food and commercial crop farmer, expressed concerns over the timing of the rains, which may affect productivity. “Last year, by this time, we had prepared the fields and planted seeds, but now we are worried that delayed rains might reduce yields and lead to losses,” she said.

Similarly, Witness Kamwela noted that climate change poses a major challenge to crop production. He stressed the importance of agricultural experts working closely with farmers to provide guidance on adapting to changing conditions from the earliest stages of farming.

“Climate change has become a serious barrier for farmers, reducing productivity and driving up food prices, which disproportionately affects low-income households,” he explained. Meanwhile, rice and maize trader Rehema Noel, based at Machinjioni Market, called on the government to prioritise the agricultural sector by deploying extension officers to assist farmers in making the most of the upcoming average and below-average rainy season .

Loss and damage fund expected to reach $412 million by December 31

Dar es Salaam. The Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD) is projected to close the year with $412 million (Sh1.03 trillion) in cash resources–a modest but critical pool of financing as developing countries prepare to submit their first-ever proposals for support.

The update, delivered in the Report of the Board of the FRLD at the ongoing COP30 summit in Belem, coincides with the fund’s inaugural call for proposals. According to the report, as of 23 September 2025, the FRLD had received $397.74 million (Sh994.4 billion) with additional transfers expected before 31 December to bring the total to $412 million.

Although this represents meaningful progress for a mechanism established just three years ago at COP30, it also underscores the vast gap between current resources and the rapidly escalating climate-induced losses confronting vulnerable nations. The World Bank, serving as interim Trustee, reported total pledges of $790.24 million.

Of these, $561.78 million have been formalized through contribution agreements, with 24 of 27 contributors already signed on. However, only a portion of these commitments has actually been deposited into the trust fund.

The projected $412 million by year-end reflects the fund’s real, deployable resources as it prepares to start reviewing country proposals in early 2026. First call for funding At COP30, the FRLD officially opened its first call for proposals the first opportunity for developing countries to request direct financing for loss and damage. The process is guided by the Barbados Implementation Plan (BIM), adopted earlier this year.

Under the BIM, countries can submit proposals from mid-December 2025 to mid-June 2026. The first approvals are expected in July 2026. For this initial cycle, the FRLD has earmarked $250 million, meaning only a limited number of projects — likely between $5 million and $20 million each will receive funding. “This first call for proposals will help test, learn, and shape the fund’s long-term operating model,” said Jean-Christophe Donnellier, FRLD Co-Chair.

“It is an important signal to developing countries that support is now available.” During the launch of the BIM, Tanzania’s Special Envoy and Presidential Advisor on Climate Change, Dr Richard Muyungi noted that “Current estimates for economic losses in 2025 alone range from $128 billion to $937 billion,”.

He adds that the $412 million available and only $250 million allocated for the first call represent “a drop in the ocean.” Independent assessments estimate that developing countries may require $200400 billion annually by 2030 to respond to loss and damage.

With global pledges to the FRLD totaling just $790 million less than 0.2 per cent of the estimated need experts warn that the fund must scale up rapidly.

Without significantly increased donor contributions, the FRLD’s reserves risk being exhausted by 2027 .

What you didn’t know about Samia’s three parliamentary speeches

First speech: Charting a new course When Samia Suluhu Hassan addressed the 12th Parliament during its Second Session on April 22, 2021 her speech lasted approximately one hour and thirty minutes. At that time, the Speaker of the National Assembly of Tanzania was Job Ndugai, and the Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (Policy, Parliament, and Coordination) was George Simbachawene.

Samia went to address Parliament roughly one month after Tanzania witnessed, for the first time, the passing of a sitting president. John Pombe Magufuli had died on March 17, 2021 just over four and a half months after being inaugurated for his second term on November 5, 2020. As Vice President, Samia was sworn in by the then Chief Justice, Professor Ibrahim Juma, in accordance with the Tanzanian Constitution.

Her address to Parliament marked her first as Head of State; previously, she had spoken to Parliament in her capacity as Vice President. Her speech outlined the direction of the Sixth Phase Government, with a focus on continuity and reform.

Phrases that captured public attention included:”Let work continue” a slogan signalling the government’s commitment to advance ongoing projects while making necessary adjustments.”We shall preserve and develop all that is good, but also implement reforms where needed to enhance efficiency” widely interpreted as a message of compromise, improvement, and building a more effective administration.

She also highlighted plans to reform the business and investment environment by reducing bureaucracy. On international relations, she said: “we will review all sectoral and operational policies, and make adjustments where gaps exist or where greater efficiency can be achieved.

” Second speech: Dissolving the 12th Parliament On June 27, 2025 Samia delivered what was described as a “historic” speech to dissolve the 12th Parliament. The address lasted approximately 166 minutes, nearly three hours, with Dr Tulia Ackson as Speaker and Kassim Majaliwa serving as Prime Minister at the time (now retired).

The speech reflected on national achievements and outlined the country’s path ahead of the 2025 General Election. Highlights included:Promoting Consensus and Democracy: She commended the growth of press freedom and citizens’ ability to voice opinions during her tenure.

Acknowledging the Speaker: She praised Dr Tulia Ackson for her leadership, especially as the second woman to hold the position and as President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, saying: “You have indeed made your fellow women proud.”Development and Efficiency: She stressed the completion and continuation of major development projects, using her signature phrase “Let Work Continue”.

Economy and Justice: She noted successes in economic management, increased revenue, and reinforced rule of law, stating: “peace and stability flourish where justice is seen to prevail.” Third speech: Inaugurating the 13th Parliament Today, Friday, November 14, 2025 Samia, who won the general election with 97.6% of the vote, is set to officially inaugurate the 13th Parliament, following preliminary sessions that began on November 11, 2025. The event is historic and constitutionally significant.

The Parliament will now be led by Mussa Zungu, while the Prime Minister is Dr Mwigulu Nchemba, who was sworn in this morning, and the Vice President is Dr Emmanuel Nchimbi. Every time Samia addresses Parliament, it carries unique significance–this time with a new Speaker and a new Prime Minister.

Her inaugural speech will outline the government’s priorities and direction for the next five years, reaffirming campaign promises and setting expectations for Tanzanians at home and abroad .

Congo marks milestone with first 1,000 tons of traceable artisanal cobalt

Kinshasa. The Democratic Republic of Congo’s state cobalt agency has produced its first 1,000 metric tonnes of traceable artisanal cobalt, marking a significant step in formalising a sector that supplies much of the world’s battery metal.

Congo holds around 72% of global cobalt reserves and accounts for over 74% of the world’s supply, much of which comes from informal artisanal mines. Artisanal mining is a vital lifeline for the country, directly employing an estimated 1.

5 to 2 million people and supporting more than 10 million others indirectly. Unregulated cobalt bypasses official oversight, making the supply difficult to track and vulnerable to government confiscations.

This uncertainty reduces the volume of ethically sourced material and drives up prices for traceable cobalt. To curb oversupply and support pricing, Congo introduced export quotas in October following a months-long ban on exports.

The quota system, administered by regulator ARESCOM, restricts exports and encourages local processing by making it less profitable for producers to ship raw cobalt abroad. Entreprise Generale du Cobalt (EGC), established in 2019 as a subsidiary of state-owned miner Gecamines, announced its first 1,000 tonnes of traceable artisanal cobalt at a ceremony in Kolwezi, one of Congo’s main mining towns, on Thursday.

The company stated that its traceability model aims to clean up the supply chain and align production with international environmental, social, and governance standards. “The vision is to transform artisanal cobalt into a strategic asset under Congolese control,” said EGC CEO Eric Kalala at the Kolwezi launch.

“Every tonne purchased by EGC must reflect not only the value of the mineral, but also the dignity of those who extract it.” Global demand for cobalt is expected to rise by 40% by 2030, driven by the growing markets for electric vehicles and energy storage, according to the International Energy Agency.

Automakers and electronics firms increasingly require proof of ethical sourcing, putting pressure on producers to eliminate child labour and unsafe practices. EGC plans to expand beyond the initial 1,000 tonnes while increasing refining capacity and capturing a larger share of the artisanal market, Kalala added.

The company has not yet disclosed how the inaugural shipment will be marketed or sold .

Samia directs Prime Minister Mwigulu to speed up delivery of CCM 2025/30 election promises

Dodoma. President Samia Suluhu Hassan has tasked Prime Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba with ensuring a rapid implementation of the promises outlined in the CCM 2025/30 election manifesto so that all planned initiatives are delivered as expected.

She emphasised that, as pledged during the campaign and reflected in the CCM 2025/2030 manifesto, there is a need to accelerate the execution of planned programmes to achieve results within a short timeframe. President Samia issued the directive today, Friday, November 14, 2025 during an address following Dr Nchemba’s swearing-in at Chamwino State House in Dodoma.

She noted, however, that delivering these initiatives requires adequate funding. Drawing on his extensive experience in financial matters, Dr Mwigulu is expected to support the Finance Minister, once appointed, in ensuring that the necessary resources are mobilised to accomplish the tasks.

“Implementing all these initiatives requires funding, and you come from the finance sector. Over the past five years, you have been familiar with the processes we followed to secure finances.

“Therefore, you will oversee the individual who assumes your counterpart role at the Ministry of Finance, so that resources can be mobilised and the work executed. In short, you have a very significant responsibility,” she said .

Mwanza Catholic Diocese holds memorial mass for victims of election violence

Mwanza. The Catholic Archdiocese of Mwanza has held a special Mass to pray for all those who lost their lives or were injured, to offer condolences to Tanzanians, and to comfort families affected by the tragic loss of loved ones during the unrest and demonstrations linked to the 2025 General Election.

The violence erupted during and after polling day on October 29, 2025 across several regions, including Dar es Salaam, Mwanza, Mara, Arusha, Dodoma, Mbeya, Songwe, Ruvuma, and Geita, resulting in deaths, injuries, and widespread damage to both public and private property. The solemn service took place yesterday, Thursday, November 13, 2025 at the Cathedral of the Epiphany Bugando, Archdiocese of Mwanza, from 10:30 a.

m. to 12:15 p.

m., led by Archbishop Renatus Nkwande.

Hundreds of congregants attended the Mass, which is part of the Archdiocese’s commemorative services for the deceased in November. In his opening remarks and sermon, Archbishop Nkwande described the events as a national shame, calling them condemnable and a matter that demands public denunciation.

He expressed deep sympathy for all victims, emphasising that the sorrow extends nationally, as Tanzania has suffered a tragedy unprecedented in its history. “We were trapped inside like in a box, unable to see outside, enveloped in darkness.

It is humiliating and disgraceful. We must pray to ensure it never happens again.

What was done shows contempt and shame for our country; it is a grave national tragedy that must lead us to kneel and seek God’s forgiveness,” he said. Archbishop Nkwande lamented that some Tanzanians were seen celebrating the violence, praising the perpetrators, and mocking the victims, warning that such behaviour sets a harmful precedent for the next generation.

“We have seen videos of killings. That is not defence; that is perpetuating murder.

What we witnessed is sheer cruelty. They have wronged God and us Tanzanians.

We are called to repent and embrace the Gospel,” he added. Referring to scriptures from Matthew, Psalm 13, Luke 6 and 25, and Wisdom 3:1, Archbishop Nkwande urged all who participated–whether through silence, commands, or derision–to repent for their part in the killings and called for all sides to return to dialogue.

“Our heartfelt condolences to Tanzanians. Let this be a lesson that must never be repeated.

If we truly want reconciliation, we must return to the table of discussion, and those involved must admit their sins,” he stressed. He also noted that some victims had been exercising their right to express themselves but were not heard, while others were simply at home, leaving hospitals, or fleeing in fear, unaccustomed to hearing gunfire.

The Archbishop prayed for the deceased, asking God to forgive their sins, and urged the faithful to remember and support the bereaved families by visiting, offering condolences, comforting, and giving encouragement. “In the eyes of the foolish, death may seem like a loss or an escape, but we do not know what they were seeking or praying for.

They sought justice, safety, and to be heard,” he said. He warned that killing is a sin, as is vengeance, and no one should plan or intend to kill.

Archbishop Nkwande expressed concern over those who commit murder to instil fear and urged Christians to abandon such actions. Among the congregants, Joyce Antony commended Archbishop Nkwande for his comforting words, noting the deep shock caused by the events.

“We are truly saddened and hurt by the loss of our youth and the injuries sustained. I urge leaders to unite and act with love,” she said.

Liberatus Ndegeulaya also emphasised the need for opposing parties to return to dialogue, reach consensus, and start afresh. “Through the Archbishop’s message, we learn that we must prioritise humanity built on justice, which fosters peace,” Ndegeulaya said.

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Inside Mwigulu Nchemba’s appointment as Tanzania’s PM

President Samia Suluhu Hassan has fulfilled her constitutional obligation. Within 14 days of being sworn in as President of the United Republic of Tanzania, she was required to submit to Parliament the name of the person she proposed as Prime Minister, for Members of Parliament to approve.

The Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania, Articles 51 (1) and (2), provides this mandatory guidance. On November 13, 2025 the Speaker of Parliament, Mussa Zungu, received the nomination of Mwigulu Nchemba.

Subsequently, Parliament approved him with a majority vote. Mwigulu Nchemba is now the 13th Prime Minister of Tanzania.

Having served four years and seven months as Minister of Finance during President Samia’s first term, he has been promoted. President Samia clearly appreciated his performance.

Mwigulu, who was 35 years old in 2010, first became the Member of Parliament for Iramba West. A member of the ruling CCM party, he demonstrated loyalty to both the party and the nation.

His dedication was evident in his work and public service. In 2011, while serving as an MP, he was appointed and endorsed by the CCM National Executive Committee (NEC) as Secretary for Finance and Economic Affairs (Treasurer).

In 2012, he was promoted to Deputy Secretary-General of CCM for mainland Tanzania, holding the position until 2015. In 2013, while Deputy Secretary-General, he was also appointed Deputy Minister of Finance during President Jakaya Kikwete’s tenure, who was also CCM Chairperson. In December 2015, Mwigulu was appointed Minister of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries in the first cabinet of the fifth President, Dr John Magufuli.

In June 2016, he was moved to serve as Minister of Home Affairs, a post he held for two years before being sidelined due to rising road accidents. In May 2020, he returned to the Cabinet as Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs.

On March 19, 2021 Tanzania welcomed a new President, Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, following the passing of Dr Magufuli. After being sworn in, she appointed Dr Philip Mpango as Vice President and subsequently Mwigulu as Minister of Finance.

During four years of collaboration, Mwigulu delivered results that earned President Samia’s trust and prompted his elevation to Prime Minister. His discipline, accountability, and performance were decisive factors in the appointment.

Why Mwigulu? The Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) report of September 2025 showed monthly collections reached Sh3.47 trillion, nearly double the Sh1.8 trillion collected when Mwigulu was first appointed Finance Minister. Reports from the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) indicate that Tanzania’s fiscal health strengthened significantly during his tenure.

The country’s GDP growth for 2024/2025 exceeded projections, rising from an estimated 5.5% to 5.

6%, compared to below 4% when he first assumed the Finance Ministry. Government fiscal policies kept inflation low at 3.

1%, and the Tanzanian shilling strengthened, with the US dollar trading at Sh2,400 compared with Sh2,800 previously. These achievements reflect the effective partnership between President Samia and her finance minister.

In October 2025, the African Union released the African Regional Integration (ARI) report, showing Tanzania leading East Africa in economic growth and value addition, surpassing Burundi and Kenya, and leaving Uganda, Rwanda, South Sudan, the DRC, and Somalia behind. These results are under the leadership of President Samia and Finance Minister Mwigulu.

Over four years and seven months of President Samia’s first term, Tanzania’s economy has flourished. Major strategic projects such as the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project (JNHPP), Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), and Kigongo-Busisi Bridge have progressed significantly, with completion below 40% at the start of her tenure, but advancing steadily under Mwigulu’s financial oversight.

Reviewing his record, it is evident why President Samia chose Mwigulu and not another MP. His stewardship of the Finance Ministry laid the foundation for his promotion to Prime Minister.

The same Mwigulu? In 2013, during a Parliamentary session, MP Livingstone Lusinde (CCM, Mtera) noted that Mwigulu and he alone were capable of handling opposition tactics effectively. This built the perception that Mwigulu was a politically astute and formidable parliamentarian.

During President Kikwete’s era, Mwigulu was known for his sharp parliamentary debates and effective handling of opposition arguments. Under President Magufuli, he displayed his style of scrutinising opponents’ points rigorously, winning favour with leadership.

Under President Samia, Mwigulu has shown maturity, providing explanations when required rather than engaging in disputes, signalling his political growth and alignment with her leadership style. Will he serve President Samia effectively? Mwigulu’s appointment reflects the continuation of Tanzania’s founding vision: a young man from humble beginnings, who pursued education diligently, rising to the highest offices of government.

Born on January 7, 1975 he attended Makunda Primary School in Singida, Ilboru Secondary School in Arusha, and Mazengo Secondary School in Dodoma. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Economics (2004), a Master’s (2006), and a PhD in Economics from the University of Dar es Salaam.

Before entering politics, he was a Senior Economist at the Bank of Tanzania. As Deputy Finance Minister, he earned the nickname “Sokoine II,” for his principled stand against ghost employees and misuse of public funds, demonstrating integrity and a hands-on approach to governance.

He combated tax evasion and implemented financial oversight mechanisms effectively. His achievements as Finance Minister and commitment to reform suggest he is well-placed to assist President Samia fully.

While he harbours presidential ambitions, Mwigulu is expected to dedicate himself entirely to the Prime Ministerial role, ensuring effective execution of government policy and supporting President Samia’s agenda. .

New era as Latra promotes smart, sustainable mobility

Dar es Salaam. Bus manufacturers and vehicle assembly firms are preparing to showcase new innovations aimed at transforming Tanzania’s public transport sector.

Land Transport Regulatory Authority (Latra) Director General Habibu Suluo said the first-ever Sustainable Land Transport Week will also feature international industry players, including Yutong and HOWO, demonstrating energy-efficient vehicles and smart fleet-management solutions tailored for the African market. The event is scheduled for November 2429 and will follow the Latra Awards for outstanding service providers.

“Over 800 participants from across the globe will engage in discussions on sustainability, innovation, safety, customer care and operational efficiency in the land transport industry,” said Mr Suluo at a press briefing yesterday. He added that the event will offer daladala, truck and bus owners the opportunity to interact directly with manufacturers and assembly companies, particularly to explore the purchase of electric vehicles.

Speaking on the awards, Mr Suluo noted that under Section 6, Act, Cap 413, Latra is mandated to foster effective competition among regulated service providers. “The awards recognise outstanding and responsible operators, improving competition and strengthening the transport ecosystem,” he said.

Mr Suluo also highlighted improvements in service quality, noting that operators have invested in luxury buses and enhanced customer experience. “Despite challenges, we have not seen strikes or major disruptions because operators continuously seek innovative solutions,” he said.

The awards will recognise intercity passenger bus operators, cargo transporters, ride-hailing services, providers of vehicle-tracking technologies and journalists or media outlets promoting road safety and quality service. Latra has also begun certifying truck drivers and passenger service operators to ensure professionalism and accountability.

“The awards are not merely ceremonial. They drive sustained reliability, innovation and efficiency,” Mr Suluo said.

“As a country, we cannot progress in isolation. Collaboration with stakeholders, particularly in sectors like agriculture where transport is vital, contributes to national economic growth,” he said .

BoT reassures stability of financial system after polls

Dar es Salaam. The Bank of Tanzania (BoT) has assured the public and investors that the Tanzanian shilling and the overall financial system remain stable and resilient, despite temporary disruptions linked to the election-related unrest that saw brief internet interruptions and isolated cases of vandalized ATMs.

BoT Governor Emmanuel Tutuba said the local currency maintained its stability through- out the election period, reflect-ing the strength of Tanzania’s monetary and financial frame- work. He emphasised that daily banking operations, interbank settlements and digital transac-tions continued smoothly dur-ing the polls and in the days that followed.

“The shilling remains sta-ble,” he affirmed. “Transactions proceeded normally during the election period; there was no impact whatsoever.

” Mr Tutuba noted that the cen-tral bank continues to monitor the financial landscape around the clock through its integrated surveillance systems. He said that key financial infrastructure, such as the Tanzania Interbank Payment System (TIPS) and the East African Payment System (EAPS), remained fully func-tional throughout the period, ensuring business continuity and public confidence.

“The uninterrupted perfor-mance of these systems demon-strates the robustness and reli-ability of Tanzania’s financial architecture,” he said, adding that the BoT would maintain its proactive approach in managing liquidity and safeguarding mon-etary stability. Independent financial ana-lyst, Mr Christopher Makombe, said financial markets had remained calm and orderly fol- lowing the October 28 general elections, with the shilling hold-ing steady against the US dollar.

“This stability reflects investor confidence and prudent economic management by the central bank,” he observed. “The BoT has done well in maintain-ing monetary stability through sound liquidity management and carefully timed forex inter-ventions, which helped prevents peculative attacks on the shilling.

” He noted that despite the social tension witnessed during the election period, both domes-tic and foreign investors appear to have viewed the unrest as temporary rather than systemic. “Tanzania’s financial markets have limited exposure to short-term speculative capital, which often drives volatility in other economies.

Long-term inves-tors here focus more on fundamentals than on political noise, and that speaks volumes about the maturity of our market,” he said. .