Smooth start as Goba resident vote in calm and orderly atmosphere

Dar es Salaam. Voting began peacefully this morning across polling stations in Goba, Dar es Salaam, as the General Election got underway, though early turnout appeared modest.

At the Goba No. 1 polling station, Supervisor Rekima Kikoti confirmed that voting commenced promptly at 7:00 a.

m., with a handful of early voters casting their ballots before leaving.

“The situation remains calm and secure as we await more voters to arrive,” she said. At Goba No.

2, Station Supervisor Mariam Hamisi reported that the exercise was progressing smoothly, while at Goba No. 3, Dorothy Mushi observed that although it was still early, voter numbers were gradually increasing and the atmosphere remained entirely peaceful.

A similar pattern was noted at other polling stations in the ward. At Goba No.

4, Joyce Ulomi said some residents had already voted, with others continuing to arrive, maintaining a calm and orderly environment. At Goba No.

5, Supervisor Christina Kaniki described the process as “smooth,” adding that voters were steadily turning up. “It’s still early, but people have begun coming in,” she remarked.

At Goba No. 6, Supervisor Esther Mtale reported that proceedings were going well, while Brison Charles of Goba No.

7 noted a steady rise in turnout. “We are waiting as more people continue to arrive,” he said.

At Goba No. 8, Carren Julius said the exercise was progressing smoothly, with increasing voter participation, and at Goba No.

9, Catherine Jinaro commended the orderly process, saying voters were easily locating their names on the register and encouraged others to come and vote. At Goba No.

10, Supervisor Vaileth Tendwa confirmed that turnout was promising for the early hours, with residents arriving steadily. One voter, Amri Juma, found at Goba No.

7, said he had come to fulfil his civic duty and vote for leaders he believed would steer the country in the right direction. .

Tanzanian firms eye Chinese market

Dar es Salaam. Fifteen Tanzanian companies are set to participate in the 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai next week, in a bid to expand market access for locally made products and strengthen trade relations between Tanzania and China.

The expo, scheduled for November 510, is part of ongoing efforts to promote local industries under the Made in Tanzania initiative. The firms will showcase a range of homegrown products including coffee, honey, avocados, gemstones and artworks.

Speaking during a farewell event in Dar es Salaam yesterday, Chinese Ambassador to Tanzania, Ms Chen Mingjian, described the CIIE as one of the world’s largest platforms for international trade and cooperation. “This exhibition offers countries like Tanzania the opportunity to expand production capacity while fostering global partnerships,” she said, adding that more than 100 companies from various countries will take part in this year’s event.

She noted that the expo aims to encourage cross-border trade and promote openness in the global economy. Tanzania participated as a guest country in last year’s edition — a role that, she said, helped deepen bilateral ties and increase visibility for Tanzanian products in the Chinese market.

The Tanzania Trade Development Authority (Tantrade) director general Latifa Khamis urged participating firms to make full use of the platform to strengthen business networks and pursue export opportunities. “Our companies should seize this opportunity to expand markets for Tanzanian products and improve competitiveness,” she said.

Tanzania’s participation in last year’s CIIE yielded tangible results. For instance, Tanzanian honey was showcased in Shanghai for the first time, leading to a deal worth over Sh100 million with Chinese distributor EALCC — an agreement that opened new market opportunities for local beekeepers.

One of this year’s exhibitors, CDTF Enterprises Company Limited, aims to build on that success. Acting general manager, Mr Jackson Mponela, said the company is focused on strengthening export linkages and creating jobs along the honey value chain.

Similarly, Amir Hamza (T) Ltd, a coffee producer attending the expo for the first time, hopes to tap into the fast-growing Chinese market. “Tanzanian coffee already has a presence in several international markets.

This participation will allow us to explore China’s demand and learn from its advanced processing and marketing techniques,” said the company’s founder. .

Here are dos and don’ts as Tanzanians head to the polls

Dar es Salaam. Tanzanians head to the polls today to elect their leaders for the next five years, as the country holds its general election under the supervision of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Across the country, millions of registered voters are expected to cast their ballots for the presidency, members of parliament, and local councillors. Ahead of polling, INEC has issued a list of key dos and don’ts to ensure order and transparency at all polling stations.

What voters should do Polling stations are scheduled to open at 7:00 a.m.

and close at 4:00 p.m.

, although those already in line by closing time will still be allowed to vote. Voters are required to carry a valid INEC-issued identification card and are encouraged to confirm their names on the official register before casting their votes in secret.

INEC has reminded the public that assistance is available for persons with disabilities, the elderly, and expectant mothers. The commission also called on citizens to respect the secrecy of the ballot, allow others to vote freely, and report any irregularities or misconduct to polling officials or accredited election observers.

What voters must avoid The electoral body has cautioned against carrying political party symbols, campaign materials, or posters within or around polling stations, warning that such acts violate the electoral code of conduct. Voters have also been warned against taking photos of their ballot papers, attempting to vote more than once, or influencing others’ choices.

“Any form of vote buying, intimidation, or disruption of polling activities will be treated as a criminal offence,” INEC said. In addition, the commission advised citizens to avoid spreading unverified information or false results on social media, noting that misinformation could incite unnecessary tension during the vote-counting process.

INEC further appealed to voters to avoid unnecessary gatherings after casting their ballots, return home peacefully, and wait patiently for the official announcement of results. .

Gonaalves era kicks off in style as Yanga beat Mtibwa

Dar es Salaam. Defending champions Young Africans (Yanga SC) marked their return to the Tanzania Mainland Premier League in emphatic fashion after securing a 2-0 victory over Mtibwa Sugar at the KMC Complex in Kinondoni yesterday.

The result not only restored Yanga’s confidence but also served as a strong statement under their new technical bench led by Portuguese head coach Pedro Gonaalves and his assistant Filipe Pedro, who were taking charge for the first time following the mutual parting of ways with former coach Romain Folz. Yanga took control of the match early, dominating possession and creating several clear scoring opportunities.

Their persistence paid off in the 39th minute when Mohamed “Tshabalala” Hussein unleashed a thunderous long-range strike after receiving a precise pass from Duke Abuya, leaving Mtibwa goalkeeper with no chance. In the 83rd minute, Celestin Acua sealed the victory with another spectacular long-range effort, extending Yanga’s lead and confirming their superiority in the contest.

Hussein’s overall performance earned him the Man of the Match award. The win lifted Yanga to fourth place in the league standings with seven points from three matches, while Mtibwa Sugar dropped to 10th place with five points from five games.

Despite the win, Yanga were guilty of wasting numerous scoring chances, with forward Prince Dube among those who missed clear opportunities that could have made the scoreline more convincing. Speaking after the game, Yanga assistant coach Patrick Mabedi praised his players for their fighting spirit and positive response under the new technical leadership but acknowledged that work still needs to be done, particularly in attack.

“We are happy with the result, but we must improve our efficiency in front of goal. The players created many chances but failed to convert most of them.

We’ll continue working on our finishing and overall sharpness in the striking force,” said Mabedi. On the opposite bench, Mtibwa Sugar head coach Awadh Juma admitted that his team made several costly mistakes which Yanga exploited effectively.

“We gave them too much space and failed to maintain our defensive structure. The players lost concentration at key moments, and that made the difference,” Juma said, promising to correct the errors ahead of their next fixture.

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Standing on the edge of a decisive moment

The October 29 General Election in Tanzania serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between democracy and stability. Across Tanzania, anticipation is rising.

Political campaigns, which had gripped the nation for months, draw to a close on October 28. Promises, expectations, and uncertainties mix in equal measure in a country that has for over four decades taken this decisive march. The nation closely monitors the unfolding events, cognizant of the significance of each word, action, and decision in this pivotal chapter.

Role of media Media, as the fourth estate, plays a crucial and multifaceted role in election coverage, shaping how citizens access information, form opinions, and ultimately make electoral decisions. Our role doesn’t stop at just covering news.

In such historical moments that shape a country’s future, the media shows voters what is at stake and enlightens the government on issues that matter most to citizens. The government relies on us to help maintain stability, just as citizens look to us for context and clarity on issues that may seem uncertain or unclear.

Through investigative and analytical reporting, the media is supposed to hold candidates, political parties, and electoral institutions accountable. In the Tanzanian setting, there is still room for improvement in making public accountability more effective and not a matter of political will.

Mwananchi Communications Limited, through its main titles, Mwananchi and The Citizen, has always been at the forefront in the call for accountability and good governance. Through public interest journalism (also known as solutions journalism), we address issues that matter most to Tanzanians and are integral to their very survival.

It is under this common understanding of the role of the media where a line should be drawn. Media is not supposed to be partisan or the friend of the government or any political party.

To maintain our independence, we must remain nonpartisan, especially during an election year, because our credibility, public trust, and democratic function depend on neutrality. It is under such broader principles of integrity that any journalist who expresses an interest in any elective political post is required to step aside from practicing journalism.

This is the level of professionalism and integrity that is associated with this field. When media remains neutral, citizens can rely on us for truthful, verified information and not undermine our credibility or erode our confidence.

Upholding principles of democracy is non-negotiable. Our role is not to distort the flow of information.

We are expected to help citizens access balanced, credible, and accurate information that will help them make the right decisions, including electing the next government. In a world of mis/disinformation and perforated quality checks, it becomes riskier and easier for audiences to access content that is polarized, risking inflaming tensions and deepening political divides, especially in a volatile election period.

We have always talked about peaceful coexistence, tolerance, and respect for differing views. That remains the standard for any progressive country.

Civic rights in Tanzania The right to vote and participate in public/civic affairs is a constitutional right enshrined under Article 21 of the Constitution, which reads, “Every citizen of the United Republic is entitled to take part in matters pertaining to the governance of the country, either directly or through representatives freely chosen by the people in conformity with the procedures laid down by law. The same Article lays down the fundamental rights to vote in political elections (suffrage) and participate in governance.

As a young nation with a demographic dividend, Tanzania is poised to be the emblem of progress in Africa. Where we fall short is in realizing and harnessing the future of this youthful population.

More than 65 percent of our population is under the age of 35, placing the youth at the centre of Tanzania’s civic and political future. The participation of young Tanzanians in civic engagement needs to evolve beyond traditional political spaces like voting and party membership.

The art of nation-building today can be carried out in different ways, both physically and digitally. When it comes to addressing the issues that matter most to the youth, such as unemployment, limited political participation, or representation only exacerbates the situation.

Therefore, as Tanzania heads to the polls, we need to understand what is at stake and the type of future we want to build for generations to come. Mpoki Thomson is Executive Editor of Mwananchi Communications Limited .

Lorita sets record as Tanzania makes historic Open water swimming debut

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania has officially made its mark in open water swimming following a historic debut at the 2025 African Aquatic Junior and Senior Open Water Swimming Championship held in Mombasa, Kenya.

Returning home with pride, the national team gained valuable experience and earned points in their first-ever participation in this demanding sport. The Tanzanian squad included team captain Adil Abdulrahman Hussein, Rajab Hamisi Omar, Kabeer Rizwani Lakhani, and the nation’s sole female swimmer, Lorita Lameck Borega.

Despite being newcomers, Tanzania scored four points, finishing seventh out of nine teams, a remarkable display of determination and resilience. A stand out performer was young swimmer Lolita Borega, who achieved two historic milestones.

She became the youngest junior swimmer to participate in the championship and the first female athlete from Tanzania to officially compete in open water swimming. Displaying immense potential, Lolita reached the semi-finals of the 3 km sprint event, completing the 1.

5 km preliminary race in 29 minutes and 54 seconds, which qualified her for the semi-finals, where she swam 1 km in 18 minutes and 24 seconds. Speaking about her motivation, Lolita said she was inspired by her dream to improve her timing for Tanzania’s pride, alongside the unwavering support of her parents.

She encouraged other female swimmers to join the sport, helping to build a strong relay team capable of competing in 5 km events. She also expressed her gratitude to the African Aquatic Federation for organizing the championship and called for more frequent competitions to provide Tanzanian athletes with opportunities to showcase their talents on the continental stage.

The male swimmers also showed grit and commitment. Rajab Hamisi Omar completed the 1.

5 km race in 29 minutes and 38 seconds, while Kabeer Rizwani Lakhani finished in 31 minutes and 47 seconds. Although neither advanced to the semi-finals, completing such a challenging race on debut was a commendable achievement.

The team faced a major setback when captain Adil sustained a hand injury near the final buoy during the 5 km race, affecting the team’s overall performance. Additionally, Tanzania could not field a relay team due to the lack of female swimmers.

The team gained crucial insights into the competitive level of African open water swimming. They now await a technical report from their coach, which will inform future strategies and preparations.

While South Africa and Egypt currently dominate the sport, Tanzania has laid a solid foundation for growth and development in open water swimming. The championship was led by South African and Egyptian swimmers in the 500 m finals.

In the women’s 500 m, Callan Lotter of South Africa won gold in 07:50, followed by Amica De Jager (South Africa) and Arwa Faisal Alsharief (Egypt). In the men’s 500 m, Egypt’s Mohamed Morshelly claimed gold with 07:31, while Moaz Bastawy (Egypt) took silver and Connor Albertyn (South Africa) secured bronze .

Samia outlines five-year vision as CCM concludes campaign

Mwanza. Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) presidential candidate and incumbent President Samia Suluhu Hassan yesterday unveiled her five-year roadmap for Tanzania’s continued transformation, as she wrapped up her nationwide campaign at the historic CCM Kirumba Stadium in Mwanza.

The plan, which forms the core of CCM’s 20252030 manifesto, is built on three pillars of prosperity, inclusivity and resilience, focusing on practical programmes aimed at improving the daily lives of Tanzanians. Over the past 60 days, President Hassan has toured all regions of the country, pledging to deepen economic transformation through initiatives spanning water supply, health, education, energy and industrialisation.

She described the new manifesto as “a people’s contract for a stronger Tanzania.” National water grid A key priority in her pledges is the National Water Grid, a flagship project intended to end decades of water scarcity by linking major water sources nationwide.

“In the next five years, no woman or child should walk miles in search of water,” she declared in Mbeya. “The National Water Grid will permanently solve water challenges, from our towns to our villages.

” Expanding energy access President Hassan has also committed to doubling the country’s power generation capacity to 8,000 megawatts through hydro, gas, solar and wind projects. “Energy is the heartbeat of our economy.

Every Tanzanian home, school and factory must be powered,” she said in Mtwara. Universal Health Insurance Under her leadership, CCM pledges to roll out Universal Health Insurance (UHI), ensuring every citizen has access to quality healthcare.

“Healthcare is not a privilege; it is a right,” she said in Tabora, noting that the programme will include the construction of new hospitals and investment in medical training. Education and skills development Education reform remains central to her agenda.

The next phase will expand vocational training centres, digital learning and teacher recruitment to prepare youth for future job markets. “We are equipping our young people to not just look for jobs, but to create them,” she said in Dodoma.

Infrastructure and economic growt President Hassan pledged to continue investing in major infrastructure projects such as the Standard Gauge Railway, upgraded ports and improved road networks to position Tanzania as a regional trade hub. Agriculture and blue economy Through the Building a Better Tomorrow (BBT) programme, she aims to modernise agriculture, expand irrigation and promote fisheries and aquaculture.

“From our farms to our factories, Tanzania will produce, process and profit,” President Hassan said in Morogoro. Employment and private sector growth CCM’s Ideology and Publicity Secretary, Mr Kenani Kihongosi, said the next term would prioritise job creation and entrepreneurship.

“We want to build a Tanzania where work, skills and creativity bring prosperity to every household,” he said. Mr Kihongosi revealed that President Hassan’s 60-day campaign reached a record audience — over 25 million Tanzanians attended her 114 rallies, while more than 57 million followed through media and online platforms.

Analysts say the campaign’s success stems from its data-driven and inclusive approach. Dr Ahmed Mrosso of the University of Dodoma noted that President Hassan’s credibility was strengthened by tangible achievements.

“She didn’t just promise — she showed delivery,” he said. CCM has urged citizens to turn out in large numbers for the general election tomorrow, October 29, 2025. “Your vote for Samia is your vote for a secure and prosperous Tanzania,” said Mr Kihongosi.

Today’s grand rally at Kirumba Stadium is expected to draw tens of thousands from across the Lake Zone, marking a fitting end to a campaign that has captured the hopes and voices of millions nationwide .

Public transport firms suspend upcountry and Zanzibar service ahead of election day

Dar es Salaam. Several road and marine transport companies have announced plans to halt their services between October 28 and 30 to allow citizens to participate in the October 29, 2025, polls.

The decision has sparked debate, with the Passengers’ Rights Association describing the move as unjustified and contrary to public interest. Among them are bus firms operating long-distance routes from Dar es Salaam to Mwanza, Tarime (Mara), Kilimanjaro, Arusha, Tabora, Mpanda (Katavi), Bukoba, Karagwe (Kagera) and Kigoma, which have said they will not operate on election day.

Marine operators, including Azam Marine and Zan Fast Ferries, have also announced that they will suspend services on October 29 along the Dar es SalaamZanzibar and ZanzibarDar es Salaam routes, resuming operations the following day. Ticket booking platforms for the affected companies have likewise disabled bookings for that date.

When contacted, representatives of the Tanzania Bus Owners Association (Taboa), the Passengers’ Rights Association, and the Land Transport Regulatory Authority (Latra) gave differing views on the matter. Taboa spokesperson Mustapha Mwalongo said the suspension was not a directive from the association but rather a business decision by individual companies concerned about low passenger turnout on polling day.

“It’s true some companies have decided to halt their routes, especially on October 29, because they expect fewer passengers,” said Mr Mwalongo. “As I’ve said, this is not Taboa’s official position.

Each operator is making its own assessment. For instance, a company that normally sends five buses to Mbeya may only send one that day.

” He added that operators expect reduced demand as many citizens will focus on voting, prompting some to scale down services or temporarily stop operations. However, the Passengers’ Rights Association dismissed the reasoning, calling it baseless and a violation of transport regulations.

“That’s a breach of transport rules,” said the association’s secretary, Hashim Omary. “Unless the government directs operators to suspend services, companies have no valid reason to stop offering transport.

Everyone has personal and family responsibilities–people travel for medical reasons, emergencies, or other urgent matters.” Mr Omary said the assumption that there will be no passengers is unfounded, adding that suspending travel could inconvenience many citizens.

“You cannot deny people transport because of voting. Even the government doesn’t support such a move.

It’s simply fear that they’ll waste fuel,” he said. “We believe passenger demand will remain normal because life continues–people have illnesses, funerals, and family obligations.

So stopping services makes little sense.” Latra Director General Johansen Kahatano said the authority has been in contact with some operators to understand their reasons for the suspension.

“One mentioned security concerns, but the police have already assured the public of adequate security during the elections, so that shouldn’t be an issue,” he said. “We’ve communicated this to their association leadership.

Most companies will operate as usual, with only a few suspending services for their own reasons.” .

From fear to understanding: Why a transformed TRA holds the key

Not long ago, the CEO Roundtable of Tanzania (CEOrt) convened a conversation themed “Strengthening PublicPrivate Dialogue on Tax Administration”. At the centre of the dialogue was Mr Yusuph J.

Mwenda, Commissioner General of the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), engaging directly with private sector leaders to reflect on how we can build a tax ecosystem rooted in trust, understanding and shared responsibility. For years, the relationship between taxpayers and tax collectors has been one of cautious distance a relationship shaped by fear, not understanding.

Fear of audits. Fear of penalties.

Fear of the unknown. But the truth is this fear does not build nations.

Understanding does. In that room, I shared a personal story one that mirrors the lived reality of millions of Tanzanian entrepreneurs.

“When I was a young business reporter at Business Times, I could only imagine the pain entrepreneurs were feeling in their quest to comply. They felt it deeper but for me, it was like a pain on my skin, bearable.

I could not relate that much. Then, as CEO of Mwananchi Communications Limited, I began to feel that pain getting closer, deep, in my flesh.

Fast forward to setting up my own company and now the pain has reached the bone. Iko kwa mfupa.

” That pain is the price of compliance in its current form a maze of overlapping regulations, multiple levies and duplicated inspections. A system where every regulatory body TRA, Occupational Safety and Health Authority (OSHA), Fire Department and others knocks at the same small door, each asking for its share.

For many, it is too much to bear. And so, they choose the path of informality not out of defiance, but survival.

Why a transformed TRA matters This is why the conversation with the TRA Commissioner General gave me hope. Because what I saw that evening was not the traditional taxman.

It was a leader on a mission to transform an institution from an enforcer to an enabler; from a collector to a connector; from fear to understanding. The CG spoke candidly about his mission as the TRA czar, which, as expected, has its own internal challenges, including leading thousands of staff, many of whom are still adjusting to the authority’s renewed vision.

He recognises that change begins from within. And that realisation alone is powerful because a transformed TRA can transform the culture of compliance itself.

From enforcement to empowerment During our follow-up meeting with the CG who had invited me to his office seeking to understand better the “maumivu kwenye mfupa” (the pain in the bone) we unpacked this transformation agenda not in theory, but through practical ideas that can change how citizens experience compliance. Imagine a single digital and physical platform that integrates all regulatory bodies TRA, OSHA, Fire, National Environmental Management Council (NEMC), and others so that businesses register, pay, and get certified in one place.

That is efficiency. That is empowerment.

Imagine a tiered system that allows startups and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to grow under lighter compliance obligations before being fully absorbed into the mainstream framework. That is not leniency.

It is logic. Growth first, taxation next.

The meeting ended with a shared resolve that compliance should not be a punishment but a pathway. This is what transformation looks like when institutions listen.

The bigger picture As Tanzania moves toward Dira 2050, the role of TRA is more than collecting revenue. It is about shaping national culture one where citizens see tax not as extraction, but as contribution; not as loss, but as investment.

For that to happen, TRA must continue on this path of change leading with empathy, communicating with clarity, and engaging with courage because when understanding replaces fear, compliance follows naturally. The question is no longer, “How do we collect more?” The question is, “How do we help our people understand more so that they choose to comply?” A transformed TRA will be the answer to move taxpayers from fear to understanding and compliance and they will need all our support.

Bakari S. Machumu is the Founder and CEO of BSM Washauri (TZ) Ltd.

, a knowledge-based business firm specialising in Business and Leadership Advisory; Strategy and Media and Communications Solutions .

MUHAS expansion plan gets Sh120bn HEET boost

Dar es Salaam. Construction at the Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS) is well underway, supported by $45.5 million (about Sh120 billion) under the Higher Education for Economic Transformation (HEET) Project, aiming to significantly expand infrastructure and modernise training for health professionals in Tanzania.

Speaking during a media briefing at Mloganzila yesterday, MUHAS Vice Chancellor Prof Appolinary Kamuhabwa said the World Bankfunded investment represents the university’s most substantial development commitment since its establishment. “This is the largest investment the university has ever received since its establishment as a medical school in 1963,” he said.

He said $30.5 million has been allocated to advance works at Mloganzila and the new Kigoma Campus. “Through the HEET Project, the university has received a total of $45.5 million, which is a concessional loan from the World Bank to the Government of Tanzania,” he explained.

Construction of the new College of Medicine at Mloganzila, which began in December 2024, has now reached 50 per cent completion. The works include major teaching and student facilities such as lecture theatres accommodating 1,400 students, an administration building with 450 offices, 21 teaching laboratories, an anatomy building for 300 users at a time, a 320-bed student hostel, and a dining hall serving 550 users simultaneously.

The project also comprises a new library and ICT centre, upgraded internal roads, and a football pitch. “Construction work is progressing rapidly and to satisfactory standards,” Prof Kamuhabwa noted, adding that completion is expected in June 2026. At Kigoma, where development has reached 35 per cent completion, the campus will host academic and administrative buildings, six laboratories, an anatomy block, and a 110-capacity student hostel.

Prof Kamuhabwa said the location is strategically positioned to serve the western zone. “This funding will support the establishment of a new health campus in the western zone, a region with geographical challenges and vulnerability to epidemic diseases,” he noted.

Prof Kamuhabwa said the expansion will significantly increase student intake and ease current infrastructure limitations. “For every 31 applicants, we can only enrol one student due to limited infrastructure,” he explained, citing last year’s figures where 31,026 qualified applicants competed for just 986 available places across MUHAS undergraduate programmes.

He further emphasised that curriculum reforms, enhanced research capacity, and job creation are key benefits already emerging from the project. “A total of 83 academic programmes have undergone major review and 23 new programmes have been introduced,” he said, noting that more than 300 jobs have already been created during construction and implementation.

The university also expects the modernised learning environment to attract international students and strengthen MUHAS’s position as a leading regional training centre. “Improved learning facilities will increase international student enrolment and enhance MUHAS’s status,” he said.

Prof Kamuhabwa expressed appreciation to the Government under President Samia Suluhu Hassan for prioritising investment in health and higher education. “We sincerely thank the Sixth Phase Government for continuing to make major investments in improving higher education infrastructure, especially at MUHAS,” he remarked.

He stressed that the project aligns with broader national development goals. “The construction of the College of Medicine at the Mloganzila Campus is part of the Government’s commitment to ensuring higher education drives economic, social and technological development,” he said.

Prof Kamuhabwa concluded by reaffirming the transformative impact of the ongoing project: “We believe that completion of this College will significantly increase both the number and quality of health professionals in the country, and ultimately improve healthcare services for all Tanzanians.” For his part, the HEET Coordinator and Deputy Vice Chancellor for Planning, Finance, and Administration at MUHAS, Prof Erasto Mbugi, said the project is progressing at an impressive pace.

“The construction is moving very quickly and according to plan,” he said. “When this project is finished, it will revolutionise health training and play a critical role in closing the existing gap in healthcare expertise,” Professor Mbugi added.

Meanwhile, Mloganzila street chairman, Ahmad Ladack described the project as a blessing for the local community, highlighting the opportunities it has already created for young residents. “This project has been a true blessing for our ward because many of our youth are already employed on the construction site,” he said.

“By the time the project is completed, it will have benefited our local people considerably,” he added. He revealed that the construction has already increased demand for local services and materials, and this will continue, bringing long-term advantages to the residents.

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