Category: The Citizen

Arusha. The Higher Education Students’ Loans Board (HESLB) has disbursed loans and grants worth S26.5 billion to 135,240 higher education students across Tanzania for the 2025/2026 academic year, marking the first phase of the loans and Samia Scholarship allocation.

Speaking to journalists on October 24, 2025 HESLB Executive Director Dr Bill Kiwia said the funds form part of the government’s commitment to ensure that every eligible and needy student receives financial support to pursue their studies without economic barriers. He said the beneficiaries are those who submitted their applications between September 15 June and 15, 2025. “Out of the 135,240 students, a total of 40,952 undergraduate students and 5,342 diploma students have been allocated loans amounting to Sh152 billion,” said Dr Kiwia.

In addition, 615 beneficiaries of the Samia Scholarship have been awarded grants worth Sh3.3 billion, while 88,331 continuing students enrolled in various institutions across the country have been allocated loans totalling Sh271.2 billion. Dr Kiwia further stated that HESLB will continue releasing subsequent rounds of loans and grants as it receives admission confirmations for new students and academic results for continuing ones.

“We urge all applicants to check the progress of their applications through their SIPA accounts. This is the official platform for obtaining accurate updates while the evaluation and allocation processes are ongoing,” he emphasised.

According to Dr Kiwia, the government has set aside Sh916.7 billion for the 2025/2026 financial year to finance loans for 273,347 students, including 99,300 first-year students and 174,047 continuing students. He said this represents an increase from Sh787 billion issued in the previous year to support over 245,000 students.

“This increment demonstrates the government’s commitment to investing more in higher education as a pillar of national development. We want to see more young people achieving their dreams without financial obstacles,” he added.

Dr Kiwia also assured that the allocated funds will reach beneficiaries as soon as they report to their respective institutions on November 3, 2025 allowing them to commence their studies without delays. He commended loan beneficiaries who continue to repay their debts voluntarily, saying such compliance strengthens the board’s capacity to fund the next generation of students.

He revealed that the total matured loan portfolio currently stands at Sh2.7 trillion, of which Sh1.8 trillion–over 70 percent–has already been recovered. “On average, we collect more than Sh20 billion monthly, making Tanzania the leading country in Africa in student loan recovery performance,” he noted.

Meanwhile, HESLB’s Director of Loan Allocation and Issuance, Dr Peter Mmari, urged all applicants and the public to seek verified information only from the board’s official website and its social media pages under the name HESLB Tanzania to avoid misinformation from unofficial sources. He added that the institution will continue strengthening its digital systems to enhance transparency, efficiency, and speed in both loan disbursement and recovery.

“We remain a model institution in Africa in supporting youth access to higher education through transparent, equitable, and efficient systems. No qualified student will be left out, provided they meet the set criteria and follow the correct information channels,” he stressed.

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Once upon a regime, yes, in those days there was this Tajiri. You know the type polished suits, a calm smile, and a way of making even his scandals sound sophisticated.

He had “legitimate businesses” (at least that’s what the papers said) and a very long list of people on his payroll. Now, some of these people actually worked for him.

Others not so much. The “not directly” ones were in offices, committees, and boards basically the places where decisions are made, rules are bent, and signatures can change your destiny.

The Tajiri paid them to stay quiet, to look away, and to make problems disappear faster than a soda in Dar heat. When I first heard the story, I laughed.

Because honestly isn’t this bribery? Isn’t this corruption? But no one called it that. They said, “Ah, huyo jamaa ni mjanja.

Ana connection.” And just like that, a crime became a skill set.

And that’s exactly where we are as a society, we’ve turned corruption into a soft skill. It’s no longer something shameful; it’s a survival hack.

People talk about bribery the same way they discuss football scores: casually, loudly, even proudly. Someone gets their passport in two days? “Bwana, I just knew who to talk to.

” Someone skips a traffic fine? “I sorted the officer kidogo.” Someone’s child gets top marks mysteriously? “Ni Mungu tu!” (Sure, let’s call it divine intervention.

) We laugh, we clap, we move on as if these small acts don’t build the big rot we keep pretending to hate. The same people who post online about corrupt leaders are the ones handing kitu kidogo at the police checkpoint.

We have double standards so high they could use their own ZIP code. And here’s the funniest part, we don’t even hide it anymore.

Corruption has gone public. It’s discussed in weddings, whispered in churches, and joked about in offices.

We’ve created an entire vocabulary for it”chai”, “shukrani”, “mambo ya ndani” We have normalised it to the point that refusing to give a bribe now looks suspicious. Try doing things the right way, and people will look at you like you’re the problem.

“Unataka kuhustle eeh?” they’ll ask, half annoyed, half amused. We’ve reached a level where integrity is seen as stubbornness, and cheating the system is celebrated as “knowing your way around life”.

But corruption is not some government thing “up there”. It’s us.

The daily shortcuts, the small favours, the casual justifications. We’ve all played our part in building this monster, brick by brick, bribe by bribe.

We say “everyone does it” like it’s a national motto. But the truth is, corruption is a slow poison it doesn’t kill immediately, it just numbs the conscience until wrong starts feeling right.

So yes, maybe the Tajiri in that story was wrong. But so are we, every time we stay silent, every time we look away, and every time we call corruption by a cute name just to feel better about it.

The moment we stop being shocked by corruption is the moment it wins. And maybe that’s already happened because these days, no one even whispers about it anymore.

It’s said and done openly, like it’s part of the weather forecast. But here’s the thing just because we’ve learnt to live with rot doesn’t mean we should stop cleaning.

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Dar es Salaam. NMB Bank has been ranked among Africa’s top 40 banks by African Business Magazine, thanks to its strong capital base, solid profitability and substantial asset size.

According to the 2025 rankings, NMB also features among the top five banks in East Africa, reflecting its consistent growth and resilience. In a statement released yesterday the bank described the recognition as a testament to its position as one of Africa’s most dynamic and stable financial institutions–anchored on sound fundamentals, robust governance, and disciplined execution of its long-term growth strategy.

As of June 2025, NMB’s total assets had surpassed Sh14 trillion, supported by a strong capital base, ample liquidity, and a five-year average annual growth rate of over 30 percent in net profits. The lender maintained its status as Tanzania’s most profitable bank, recording Sh358.57 billion in net profit during the first half of 2025–a 14 percent increase from Sh314.17 billion in June 2024. Its return on equity remains among the highest in the region, signalling effective capital management and prudent operations.

NMB attributes its performance to the successful execution of its 20212025 Medium-Term Plan, which focuses on financial inclusion, digital transformation, operational efficiency, and sustainability. Currently, over 96 percent of all customer transactions occur outside physical branches, underscoring the impact of its digital strategy.

Beyond financial success, NMB continues to lead in responsible banking and sustainability. In 2021, it became the first bank in Africa to issue a Gender Bond–an initiative that underscored its commitment to inclusive finance and women’s economic empowerment.

The innovation earned NMB global recognition, including the Platinum Award for Sustainable Bond of the Year from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the Global SME Finance Forum. The bank has also received several international accolades, including Euromoney’s Africa’s Best for Sustainability award, Top Employer certification for workplace excellence, and the prestigious EDGE Certification for gender equality–becoming the first African bank to achieve this milestone.

Commenting on the achievement, NMB’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Ms Ruth Zaipuna (pictured), said the recognition represents the strength of our strategy, the resilience of our people, and the trust our customers place in us. “It is a proud moment for Tanzania and a reminder of our responsibility to continue building a world-class financial institution that delivers sustainable value for all stakeholders,” she said.

As the bank concludes its current strategic cycle and prepares for the next phase, Ms Zaipuna said its focus remains on sustainability, technology, and service excellence. In celebrating the continental recognition, NMB extended its gratitude to customers, employees, shareholders, partners and regulators, for their continued trust and support.

“We dedicate this achievement to every stakeholder who has walked this journey with us,” the bank said in a statement. “Together, we are not only building a bank but also transforming lives and shaping a stronger financial future for Tanzania and the region.

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Dar es Salaam. CCM presidential candidate and incumbent Head of State, Samia Suluhu Hassan, has reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to building an inclusive and united Tanzania, calling on young people to safeguard peace and stability as the nation approaches the polls.

Speaking yesterday during a campaign rally held at Tanesco grounds in Buza, Temeke, President Hassan emphasised that her government’s development vision is anchored on human dignity, equal opportunities, and unity across all social and economic spheres. “Our founding fathers, including the late Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, reminded us that for a nation to develop, it must have people, land, sound politics, and good leadership,” she told supporters who had gathered in the sweltering Dar es Salaam afternoon heat.

“We have sung these words for years in CCM, and we continue to live by them. In our current and forthcoming manifestos, we are focusing on the people — empowering them, developing them, and upholding the dignity of every Tanzanian.

” Economic inclusivity and empowerment Turning to the economy, President Samia highlighted her government’s strides in strengthening both large-scale and small-scale economic activities, saying that her administration had worked hard to create a business environment that accommodates all. “In the area of the economy, we have done a good job,” she said.

“We have built an economy that supports big investors while also providing opportunities and spaces for small traders. Our goal is to make sure that every Tanzanian has a chance to participate meaningfully in the nation’s economic growth.

” On matters of justice, she said her government had invested in strengthening the judiciary to ensure timely and fair access to justice. “We have enhanced the independence of the judiciary, and today justice is available and delivered on time,” she added.

She further underscored the importance of freedom of expression — within the bounds of Tanzanian values and traditions — saying, “Freedom of speech, as enshrined in our Constitution, must coexist with our cultural norms and the respect for human dignity that defines us as Tanzanians.” Land and good governance Addressing land management, President Samia admitted that Tanzania had long struggled with planning and fair distribution, but said her party had drawn up concrete strategies to ensure that land was used productively.

“We have vast land resources,” she noted. “In the past, there were gaps in planning and fairness in land allocation.

But CCM is now well-prepared to utilise this land productively — for agriculture, investment, and other development projects that directly benefit our people.” The President also touched on the concept of clean politics, saying that it was central to peace, inclusivity, and accountability in governance.

“Clean politics ensures that people participate in decision-making through committees and commissions. When challenges arise, we talk to each other, we listen, and we resolve issues together,” she said.

“This is what Mwalimu Nyerere taught us — and our governments have continued to uphold these principles at various areas.” Joining her at the rally, Dr Thabit Kombo, Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, praised President Hassan for spearheading initiatives that have opened international employment opportunities for Tanzanian youth.

“One of the key achievements of President Samia’s leadership has been opening up our nation,” Dr Kombo said. “We have now signed agreements that will allow 50,000 young Tanzanians aged between 20 and 35 to work abroad.

These opportunities come as part of our efforts to expand employment beyond our borders.” He added that another 20,000 jobs were in the pipeline as new agreements with other countries were being finalised.

“Our youth should be ready to seize these opportunities. This is a reflection of the President’s commitment to empowering young people both at home and abroad,” he said.

Meanwhile, National Chairperson of the rulling party’s women’s wing, Mary Chatanda, said the women’s wing had already reached 15.7 million out of a targeted 16.7 million women across the country in their campaign to mobilise votes for President Hassan. “Women of Tanzania are ready to ensure you win decisively,” Chatanda told the rally.

“Since your nomination as our party’s presidential candidate, we have been mobilising tirelessly. You have worked hard for four years, and we are proud of you.

Whatever others may say, your record speaks for itself — and we, the women, will honour that with our votes.” As the rally concluded, Samia urged Tanzanians especially the youth — to cherish unity and peace above all else.

“Let us protect our peace. Let us not be misled into destroying what we have built together.

A united and inclusive Tanzania is our shared future,” she said to resounding applause. .

After a few quiet years, Tanzania’s beauty pageant scene is dazzling once again, and this time, the crowns are heavier, the stages grander, and the spotlight brighter on the global stage. From Miss Universe Tanzania to Miss Grand Tanzania and the revived Miss Tanzania competition, local queens are rewriting the country’s image and proving that Tanzanian beauty, confidence, and culture belong on the world stage.

Over the weekend, Miss Grand Tanzania 2025, Beatrice Alex Akyoo, made history by becoming the first Tanzanian to reach the Top 10 at the Miss Grand International pageant. The 25-year-old beauty queen from Dar es Salaam secured the fifth runner-up position at the grand finale held on October 18, 2025, in Bangkok, Thailand.

Competing against 77 contestants from around the world, Akyoo’s remarkable journey began when she was crowned Miss Grand Tanzania on August 16, 2025, in Dar es Salaam. Her performance at the international stage marked one of the country’s best international performances in years.

Her elegant confidence, signature smile, and Swahili poise earned her a devoted following among global fans. In a heartfelt message to her supporters, Akyoo expresses her gratitude, stating, “We made it to the Top Ten, and I couldn’t be more grateful.

” This achievement not only highlights her personal dedication but also represents an important turning point for Tanzania in the realm of international beauty pageants. The internet lit up with Tanzanian pride.

“So far, I have no debt with this girl, no complaints I’m more than proud to say Tanzania pageantry is going somewhere!” comments a fan in one of Miss Akyoo’s performance posts Another adds, “Who’s behind this young lady? Wow, she really knows how to make us proud.” It was beyond mere excitement, it was a national validation that Tanzania’s queens could compete shoulder to shoulder with the world’s best.

Meanwhile, Miss Earth Tanzania 2025, Amina Abdulkadri Jigge, embodies this shift perfectly. Before flying to the Philippines for the Miss Earth International competition, she was honoured with a spirited send-off celebration in Dar es Salaam, a swirl of music, fashion, and patriotism.

“Success starts with taking a bold step,” shares former Miss Earth 2008, Miriam Odemba, in her message to Amina. “You’ve already taken the bold step.

Now use that platform to show the world that Tanzania cares about the planet.” Known for her intelligence and environmental advocacy, Amina’s participation underscores how Tanzanian pageantry has expanded its purpose, from outer beauty to impact and intellect.

Similarly, Adelina David Mpinga, Miss Tourism Africa International Tanzania 2025, is representing the nation in Abuja, Nigeria, where she’s competing at the continental finals. Social media has been both a runway and a megaphone for this renaissance.

TikTok and Instagram have become virtual catwalks, where Tanzanian contestants showcase creative costumes, practise their speeches, and build international fan bases. “Every like, share, and retweet counts,” says pageant strategist Alice Mwenda.

“Fans are no longer passive spectators; they’re part of the journey, and that’s what’s fuelling this momentum.” .

Dar es Salaam. Rotarians in Tanzania joined their counterparts across the world on Friday, October 24, 2025, in celebrating this year’s World Polio Day by highlighting the progress of a special vaccination campaign at Mwananyamala Regional Referral Hospital in Dar es Salaam.

World Polio Day was established by Rotary International (RI) to commemorate the birth of Jonas Salk, who led the first team to develop a vaccine against poliomyelitis. In line with the Rotarians’ goal of emphasising prevention rather than cure, the ten-week campaign, conducted by the Rotary Club of Mikocheni in collaboration with partner Rotaract Clubs, focused on creating awareness among mothers and caregivers.

Organisers said the initiative recognises that although Tanzania was officially declared polio-free in 2015, regional outbreaks still put the country at risk. “The war on polio is still on, and this is the time to intensify the fight so we can achieve total eradication,” said the President of the Rotary Club of Mikocheni, Mr Nasibu Mahinya.

He said that the campaign also seeks to educate mothers and caregivers about the myths surrounding polio vaccination. “We aim to ensure that people understand the vaccination does not make our mothers infertile or reduce the number of births,” he said.

According to Mr Mahinya, the initiative further emphasises that every child should receive the first polio vaccination within 72 hours of birth and complete all four doses within 14 weeks, as required. Rotaract Club of Bahari Youth President, Mr Sudi Kondo, shared similar sentiments.

“Throughout the campaign period, our goal has been to increase public awareness about polio and the importance of vaccination,” he said. National PolioPlus Coordinator from RI, Dr William Mwenge, noted that with no new polio cases reported in various countries for several years, governments in developing nations have shifted their focus to other major killer diseases.

“This is why Rotarians are important,” he said. “They come in to bridge the funding gap as governments direct their funds to other diseases.

” President of the Rotaract Club of Alpha, Dr Aniita Semfilinge, said the team had also used the campaign to respond to common questions about the cost and timing of polio vaccination. “We have managed to educate mothers that the vaccine is free, that the first dose must be administered within 72 hours after birth, and the fourth–also the last–within 14 weeks,” she said.

Also present at the event were the President of the Rotaract Club of Young Professionals, Ms Gloria Mwankenja; her KIUT counterpart, Ms Eunice Sylvestre; and Rotaract Club of Young Professionals member, Mr Falles John Tagaya. In total, the campaign, which began on August 16, 2025, reached 184 mothers.

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Dar es Salaam. The third prosecution witness in the treason case against Chadema national chairman Tundu Lissu concluded his testimony at the Dar es Salaam High Court (Magistrate’s Division) on October 23, 2025, stressing that he could not record every detail in the written statement he gave to police because doing so would amount to producing a book or a research report.

The witness, Police Inspector Samuel Eribariki Kaaya (39), a photographic specialist attached to the Photographic Unit of the Commission for Forensic Science Investigations at Police Headquarters, Dar es Salaam, made the remarks as he finished answering a series of questions intended to reconcile his in-court evidence with the written statement he had provided to police, and in response to cross-examination by the accused, Tundu Lissu. Inspector Kaaya gave evidence for six consecutive days from Wednesday October 15 until he finished on October 23. He testified before a three-judge bench hearing the case: Dunstan Ndunguru, James Karayemaha and Ferdinand Kiwonde.

Lissu faces a charge of treason contrary to section 39(2)(d) of the Penal Code, arising from remarks he is alleged to have made about preventing the holding of the 2025 General Election. When led by Senior State Attorney Tawab Issa (SSA) to explain one matter of reconciliation between answers he gave in court and his written police statement, Kaaya said the written notes he prepared for police were only a summary of his work and that he could not possibly write down every detail in those statements because they would then be research reports rather than statements of evidence.

Kaaya explained this position after Lissu put 75 questions to him about aspects of his oral testimony given in court that do not appear in the written statement he supplied to police. In response to some of Lissu’s questions, Kaaya admitted familiarity with certain matters and denied knowledge of others, as follows: Lissu: “Witness, are you aware you were asked 165 questions in court by the Republic’s lawyers?” Witness: “I am not certain.

” Lissu: “Are you aware that of those 165 questions asked by your lawyers, 112 are not contained in the statement you wrote to police?” Witness: “I am not certain.” Lissu: “Witness, 68 per cent of the questions asked by the State counsel are not in the statement you wrote to police — true or not?” Witness: “True.

” Lissu: “Why are the answers you have given in court not included in the statement you made to police?” Witness: “The statement I wrote to police is a summary of the work I carried out; you cannot write everything because you would be writing research.” Lissu: “Have you given a reason in court for why you did not include your in-court evidence in the police statement?” Witness: “I have not given a reason.

” Lissu: “Who wrote those statements to the police?” Witness: “I wrote them myself.” Lissu: “In the statement you wrote, who warned you?” Witness: “The warning statements do not contain a warning-officer.

” Lissu: “Who warned you?” Witness: “I wrote it myself.” Lissu: “When police prepare written statements there is a verification process — true or not?” Witness: “I wrote it myself.

” Lissu: “Who trained you police officers to write warning statements?” Witness: “Our fellow police officers.” Lissu: “Are you familiar with the Police General Orders (PGO)?” Witness: “Yes.

” Lissu: “When did you last read the Police General Orders?” Witness: “This morning.” Lissu: “I stand accused of treason here; I am alleged to have broadcast seditious material during my meeting and uploaded it online.

Tell the judges: is it possible that the person speaking and the person holding the camera recording live are the same person?” Witness: “I do not know.” Lissu: “In a professional forensic inquiry can you determine who uploaded the video online, given that I am accused of having uploaded it?” Witness: “When conducting a metadata investigation you examine the link that uploaded the video; therefore, I did not identify a person.

” Lissu: “You have answered very well, witness — may God bless you.” Lissu: “Tell the judges who was operating that camera on April 3, 2025 for the recording.

” Witness: “I do not know and I am not familiar with that.” Lissu: “From your knowledge, is it possible for someone without a Jambo TV username, without a YouTube account or password, and who is not a Jambo TV employee, to upload the video to Jambo TV?” Witness: “It depends.

Technology has advanced; there are things called hacks which enable someone to access an account without a password.” Lissu: “Witness, I am persuaded by everything you have said, but I maintain the allegation that I uploaded the seditious material and put it on that account; I would like clarity on that.

” Witness: “There is no way someone can access an account unless they have the password, or unless there is software that can break into the account without a password — people can hack accounts.” .

Nairobi. The Horn of Africa is facing a renewed surge in human trafficking and irregular migration, with Ethiopia, Somalia, and Eritrea singled out as major hotspots for smugglers exploiting desperate jobseekers.

Fresh data from the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) reveals that illegal labour migration along the Eastern Route — stretching through Ethiopia, Djibouti, Somalia, and Yemen — has sharply increased in the first eight months of 2025, cementing its place as one of the world’s busiest and most perilous migration corridors. Nihan Erdogan, IOM’s Deputy Regional Director for East, Horn, and Southern Africa, said most irregular migrants originate from Ethiopia and Somalia, often lured by the promise of jobs in the Middle East and the Gulf.

“We continue to see citizens from the eastern Horn risking everything for employment opportunities abroad,” she noted at the 3rd Igad Conference on Labour, Employment, and Labour Migration in Nairobi. The IOM attributes the rise to new smuggling routes through Yemen’s Ta’izz City and increased cross-border departures from Ethiopia.

Figures show migration numbers rose from 178,300 in 2024 to 238,000 by mid-2025. During the same period, 55,700 Ethiopian migrants were forcibly repatriated from Saudi Arabia — slightly fewer than last year — though the number of returning boys and girls grew by 31 and 18 percent respectively. Between April and June, 78 migrants died or went missing along the route, mostly in Djibouti and Yemen.

By June 2025, at least 348 deaths or disappearances had been recorded, surpassing last year’s toll. Ethiopia, long criticised for porous borders, pledged to tighten controls and promote safer, regulated labour mobility.

Member states of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (Igad) — including Kenya, Uganda, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Djibouti, Eritrea, and Ethiopia — vowed to harmonise labour migration policies and strengthen protection for migrant workers. Igad Executive Secretary Dr Workneh Gebeyehu described the region’s migration crisis as “a ticking time bomb,” urging governments to create jobs at home and improve working conditions abroad.

“Too many of our youth, driven by despair, are dying along routes like the Red Sea. We must ensure they thrive where they belong,” he said.

Kenya’s Labour Cabinet Secretary, Dr Alfred Mutua, echoed the call for reforms linking employment and human rights. “Migration should be dignified, safe, and beneficial,” he said.

“We must fight human trafficking and stop the exploitation of our people simply because they are desperate.” Dr Workneh also renewed calls for a single-visa regime across the Igad bloc to ease lawful labour mobility without undermining national security or sovereignty.

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Dar es Salaam. As more Tanzanian families turn to smartphones for information and entertainment, researchers say digital tools could also hold the key to better parenting and healthier child development.

The National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR) has launched a pioneering study to explore how technology can help parents build stronger emotional bonds with their children and improve early learning at home. The study, conducted in collaboration with the Regional Psychosocial Support Initiative (REPSSI) and Stellenbosch University, comes amid growing concern that excessive or unproductive screen time is weakening family interactions and eroding positive parenting practices.

Speaking during a stakeholder meeting in Kinondoni District, NIMR Mwanza Centre’s Digital Parenting and Child Development Project Coordinator, Mr Christopher Mshana, said the research responds to the social and behavioural changes brought about by widespread digital engagement. “We realised that many parents rely on digital platforms for information, yet effective parenting practices are declining,” said Mr Mshana.

“Through this project, NIMR is using technology to reintroduce positive parenting skills and improve how parents interact with their children.” At the heart of the study is a specially designed smartphone application offering interactive lessons, games, and home-based activities to promote family bonding and reduce parenting-related stress.

The project, which targets children aged four to six and their parents or caregivers, is currently being implemented across 12 wards in Kinondoni District. “Our goal is to promote meaningful parentchild engagement, enhance mental health, and encourage shared activities like play and reading at home,” said Mr Mshana.

“This helps build supportive environments for both parents and children.” According to the Project Manager from REPSSI, Ms Rahaba Mvuoni, the research has already exceeded expectations, reaching 408 caregivers, slightly above the initial target of 400 participants.

“The project offers nine digital lessons focused on strengthening parentchild relationships, building effective parenting skills, and improving parents’ mental health,” said Ms Mvuoni. “Even with busy schedules, parents can dedicate just 10 to 15 minutes daily to read, play, or learn with their children.

” The app also includes 50 educational books, interactive games, and simple home-based activities designed to make learning and bonding both fun and accessible. Community feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.

A community worker from Msasani Ward, Ms Eva Nyella said the project has changed her parenting approach. “I didn’t have a clear routine for engaging with my child before,” she said.

“Now, I’ve learned different play and learning methods that have strengthened our bond. I spend more time learning about parenting instead of scrolling through social media.

” Similarly, a community health worker from Bunju Ward, Mr Deus Bwire said the initiative is helping to reshape parenting habits across communities. “Many Tanzanians use social media daily, so this smartphone-based approach is practical and accessible,” he said.

“It encourages parents to use their devices for positive purposes–building stronger families and reducing moral decline.” .

Dar es Salaam. The world’s smallholder farmers, who produce half of all global food calories, require $443 billion annually to cope with the growing negative effects of climate change, according to new research findings.

The required amount, according to the newly launched report, is less than that spent each year on harmful subsidies. The research, released on October 23, 2025, ahead of the COP30 Climate Summit scheduled for Brazil, where adaptation is expected to take centre stage, reveals that East Africa needs $34.6 billion (Sh85.96 trillion) for its farmers per year.

tml-embed Loading The funds will mainly be directed towards incentivising climate-resilient, low-emission agricultural practices (87 percent), with the remainder supporting early warning systems, adaptive safety nets, and digital climate services. The study, conducted by Climate Focus for Family Farmers for Climate Action, a new alliance representing 95 million small-scale producers across Africa, Latin America, Asia, and the Pacific, found that the cost of helping smallholders adapt is less than the $470 billion spent annually on planet- and agricultural subsidies.

The findings show that smallholders with 10 hectares or less of land need about $952 (Sh2.37 million) per hectare annually, or roughly $2.19 (Sh5,440.8) per day, to build resilience and maintain food production amid intensifying droughts, floods, and heatwaves. Yet global support for smallholder adaptation remains minimal.

In 2021, only $1.59 billion (Sh3.95 trillion) was spent, just 0.36 percent of what is required.

Meanwhile, developing countries collectively spent $1.4 trillion on debt servicing in 2023, a situation experts say underscores the misalignment of global financial priorities. Despite being highly vulnerable to climate shocks, smallholder farmers still fund their own adaptation efforts, spending 20 to 40 percent of their annual income on soil restoration, drought-resistant crops, and water management systems, a contribution estimated at $368 billion each year.

President of the Eastern Africa Farmers Federation (EAFF), Ms Elizabeth Nsimadala, which represents 25 million smallholders, said the world must view financing smallholder adaptation as a vital investment rather than an act of charity. “This isn’t charity; it’s an investment in global food security.

Smallholders produce half the world’s food calories, sustain 2.5 billion livelihoods, and are central to global supply chains for commodities such as rice, wheat, cocoa, and coffee.

Investing in smallholder adaptation benefits everyone,” she said in a statement availed to The Citizen. An agroforestry farmer from southern Brazil and representative of the Inter-Continental Network of Organic Farmer Organisations, Thales Mendonaa, echoed this sentiment, describing investment in smallholders as both an economic and ecological necessity.

“We are pioneering practices such as agroecology that build climate resilience by restoring nature’s safety net. Supporting smallholders and our organisations to scale up this work is the fastest route from scarcity to abundance,” said Mendonaa.

The report also highlights regional priorities, noting that East Africa needs around $34.6 billion, with 87 percent allocated to climate-resilient, low-emission farming practices, while the remainder supports early warning systems, adaptive safety nets, and digital climate services. At COP30, governments are expected to agree on indicators to track progress towards the Global Goal on Adaptation (GGA) and shape national adaptation plans.

However, the current framework lacks specific measures for finance flows to smallholders, raising concern among farmers’ organisations and climate advocates. It also remains uncertain whether developed nations will fulfil their pledge to double adaptation finance to between $38 billion and $40 billion by 2025, or agree on a new global target beyond that timeline.

Meanwhile, the Brazilian Presidency’s Action Agenda seeks to mobilise financing and political will for sustainable, resilient agriculture, including agroecology, while amplifying family farmers’ voices through the Circle of People’s initiative, a platform that engages farmers in global discussions on finance, loss and damage, and the just transition. The Asian Farmers’ Association (AFA) Secretary-General, Ms Esther Penunia, representing 12 million smallholders, said governments must move beyond promises and act decisively to protect smallholder farmers who are already facing climate impacts.

“Governments must agree to a major boost in adaptation finance to shield our farms from storms, droughts, and heatwaves wreaking havoc globally,” she said. “Channelling more finance to smallholders through their organisations will yield the greatest impact.

To achieve this, governments and funders must make it easier for family farmer organisations to directly access finance and establish a dedicated Farmers’ Resiliency Fund led by these organisations,” added Ms Penunia. The report concludes that redirecting even a fraction of harmful agricultural subsidies towards smallholder adaptation could safeguard the planet’s food systems, sustain rural livelihoods, and accelerate the global transition to climate-resilient farming.

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