Category: The Citizen

Dar es Salaam. When Lucy John (not her real name) urgently needed financial assistance, she turned to a microfinance institution (name withheld) for help.

The institution swiftly approved her request for Sh20 million, a relief she accepted without thoroughly reviewing the loan terms. The only detail she recalled was that the interest rate stood at 20 percent.

Three months later, she learnt the hard way what failing to read the fine print meant. After delaying repayment for three months, Lucy deposited Sh15 million, only to be told she still owed Sh5 million in principal, Sh12 million in penalties and another Sh12 million in interest.

“I was shocked. Even though the interest was S million, I didn’t expect the penalties to be so high.

I tried to negotiate with the loan officer to reduce them, since I planned to settle the debt in December, but she insisted on the same amount,” she said. Her experience highlights a crucial lesson: borrowers must read and fully understand their loan agreements before signing.

Many Tanzanians find themselves trapped in costly contracts because they overlook key details such as interest rates, repayment schedules, and penalties. The Bank of Tanzania (BoT) has repeatedly warned the public against borrowing from unlicensed microfinance institutions, citing exploitation through excessive interest rates, hidden charges, and punitive penalties.

Some lenders, BoT says, have charged borrowers up to 20 percent interest per month. To protect consumers, BoT introduced the Guidelines on Fees and Charges for Microfinance Service Providers, 2024, which require licensed lenders to clearly display their rates, fees, and penalties in both Kiswahili and English.

They must also seek BoT’s approval before introducing or increasing charges. The guidelines prohibit operational fees such as administrative or inquiry costs to prevent unfair burdens on borrowers.

Non-compliant institutions risk penalties of up to Sh20 million and possible licence suspension or revocation. BoT has also urged borrowers to verify whether a lender is licensed, noting that operating a microfinance business without a licence is a criminal offence under the Microfinance Act, 2018. BoT Governor Emmanuel Tutuba stressed the importance of understanding loan contracts before borrowing.

“Borrowers must assess their financial capacity and ensure they can meet repayment obligations. A loan agreement is a legally binding document–ignorance of its terms is not a defence,” he said.

Tanzania Association of Microfinance Institutions (TAMFI) Executive Secretary, Winnie Terry, said members under the association’s umbrella are not allowed to charge more than 3.5 percent interest monthly.

“We only regulate institutions affiliated with us. Those operating outside remain unmonitored, which is why BoT required all microfinance providers to register,” she said, adding that penalties vary by institution, making it vital for borrowers to read every clause carefully.

Independent analyst Christopher Makombe said some microfinance institutions continue to impose illegal interest rates of up to 20 percent monthly–equivalent to an annual rate exceeding 790 percent–leaving borrowers trapped in debt. “Such rates are exploitative,” he said.

“They prevent households and small businesses from growing and destabilise families financially.” Mr Makombe urged BoT and the Fair Competition Commission to strengthen oversight, enforce interest caps, and ensure transparency in loan contracts.

He also called for stronger financial literacy efforts. “Many borrowers sign contracts without understanding compound interest, penalties, or the impact of delayed payments,” he said.

“Always read the fine print, ask questions, and ensure the loan matches your repayment capacity. What you don’t know can cost you your peace of mind, your business, and your future.

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Zanzibar. The ACT-Wazalendo party says its campaign to win the Zanzibar presidency relies on two key strategies of mobilising enough votes and safeguarding the outcome through well-trained polling agents.

According to the party, which has fielded Othman Masoud Othman as its presidential candidate, the task of securing votes has been entrusted to special campaign teams known as OMO Teams. ACT-Wazalendo’s Zanzibar Vice Chairperson, Ismail Jussa, said the teams began operations before the official campaign period and have been working continuously as campaigns enter their final phase.

Speaking in an interview, Jussa–who also chairs the party’s Zanzibar Victory Committee–said the OMO Teams were driving the effort to ensure Mr Othman, popularly known as “OMO”, secures the presidency. He explained that the party had restructured its regional, constituency and branch leadership committees into victory teams, empowering them to mobilise support within their localities.

“We transformed our leadership committees into victory teams and strengthened them by bringing in new members who can help at the grassroots. Their role is to lead and supervise campaign efforts,” he said.

He added that the OMO Teams comprise groups of youths, women and elders tasked with seeking votes for Othman in both Pemba and Unguja. “These are what we call ‘barefoot soldiers’ — the ones moving house to house, each targeting their own demographic.

Youths engage with young people, women with women, and elders with their peers,” Jussa said. He noted that 32 of the teams are in Unguja and 18 in Pemba, covering all 50 constituencies.

Jussa expressed confidence that Othman would emerge victorious in the October 29 polls, saying ACT-Wazalendo had followed the campaign schedule set by the Zanzibar Electoral Commission (ZEC) without interruption. “We have held nearly all our rallies except one that was cancelled following the death of CCM’s Fuoni parliamentary candidate, Abbas Mwinyi.

We have reached almost every constituency to promote OMO’s candidacy,” he said. At a rally held at Ole Kianga Laurent grounds in South Pemba, ACT-Wazalendo Deputy Secretary General for Zanzibar, Omar Ali Shehe, said the party had covered 33 out of its 36 planned constituency rallies.

“Our campaign is nearing completion, and we are very encouraged by the support we’ve received. My message to the other side is simple–prepare to work with Othman because this wave is unstoppable,” he said.

Jussa said beyond the rallies, Othman has been meeting with different social and economic groups daily, including farmers, fishers, traders, entrepreneurs, and religious leaders. “He also visits markets and interacts with communities affected by challenges such as land disputes.

This has brought him closer to the people and strengthened our connection with voters,” Jussa said. On safeguarding votes, Jussa said the party has deployed agents to all polling stations to monitor the voting and counting process.

“We know that’s where the biggest challenges arise, but ACT-Wazalendo is well prepared to protect our victory and ensure all our candidates, from councillors to the presidency, are declared winners,” he said. “We have no doubt about our victory because the numbers don’t lie.

Our campaign has been scientific, data-driven, and we are already ahead. The task now is to ensure high voter turnout,” he added.

At a rally in Ole, Othman urged voters to turn out in large numbers on election day. “Zanzibaris and ACT supporters, go out and vote peacefully with confidence.

We are the winners, and we must protect that victory. No one should stay at home,” he told the crowd.

Jussa said their confidence stemmed from the calibre of their candidate. “Othman commands broad respect due to his history and principles.

He understands Zanzibar’s quest for full autonomy better than anyone,” he said. He recalled that Othman’s decision to walk out of the 2014 Constituent Assembly, where he served as Attorney General, after disagreeing with CCM on parts of the proposed constitution, demonstrated his integrity and commitment to Zanzibar’s interests.

Although that move cost him his position under then-President Dr Ali Mohamed Shein, it earned him lasting respect among Zanzibaris. “Othman knows Zanzibar’s political and historical landscape inside out.

He has maintained strong networks and goodwill across the political spectrum,” Jussa said. He added that the party’s decision to field candidates who won internal primaries and its firm stance against corruption had boosted its credibility.

“ACT-Wazalendo has demonstrated unity and discipline. Ninety-five percent of our candidates were approved by the Central Committee.

And our open opposition to corruption gives us moral strength heading into this election,” Jussa said. .

Dar es Salaam. With only seven days left before the General Election, CCM presidential candidate and Head of State, Samia Suluhu Hassan, has assured Tanzanians that the nation remains peaceful and secure, urging citizens to turn out in large numbers to cast their votes.

Speaking during a campaign rally at Kuche grounds in Kinyerezi, Ilala District, on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, President Hassan said security and defence forces across the country were well-prepared and fully equipped to ensure safety throughout the election period. “On the safety of our citizens, I said it yesterday, but let me repeat it again today.

Our security and defence organs are well-prepared, and we have strengthened their capacity. The nation is safe at all times,” she said.

“Whether during the election or not, we are safe. These minor threats people are spreading around, if you hear them, just ask those behind them.

I want to assure all Tanzanians: go out and vote; we are secure,” she added. On Tuesday, during a campaign rally at Leaders Club in Kinondoni, President Samia told supporters that the only processions expected on election day, October 29, would be Tanzanians walking to polling stations to vote.

As Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, she reiterated that there was no cause for alarm and that the country remained stable. “I took an oath to serve Tanzania, and that is exactly what I am doing.

I swore to protect the nation, to uphold the dignity of Tanzanians. When I ensure people have clean water, children access education, and citizens enjoy health services and security, that is honouring human dignity,” she said.

President Hassan also downplayed personal attacks directed at her during the campaign period, saying she was ready to bear them for the sake of unity and national service. “My brothers and sisters, leave the insults to me.

I will carry them on your behalf. Even our prophets suffered for the sake of others: Jesus was crucified to redeem humanity, and Prophet Muhammad endured pain in fulfilling God’s command to save his people,” she said.

The CCM presidential candidate further called on residents of Ubungo and Kinondoni to vote massively for the ruling party. “I have no pain in carrying these insults because I am doing this job wholeheartedly.

I have no regrets. Therefore, I ask all of you in Ubungo and Kinondoni to vote for us.

Not even a soda bottle cap will be lost,” she said. .

Dar es Salaam. A total of 1,582,140 Standard Four pupils from 20,517 schools across Tanzania are set to sit for the Standard Four National Assessment (SFNA) on October 22 and 23, 2025, according to the National Examinations Council of Tanzania (NECTA).

Of the registered candidates, 764,290 (48.31 percent) are boys, while 817,850 (51.69 percent) are girls. Speaking in Dar es Salaam on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, NECTA Executive Secretary Prof Said Mohamed provided key updates on the upcoming assessment.

“Out of all registered pupils, 1,475,637 (93.27 percent) will take the exam in Kiswahili, while 106,503 (6.73 percent) will sit for the exam in English, the language of instruction in their respective schools,” said Prof Mohamed. He said NECTA has made special arrangements for 5,750 pupils with disabilities, including 1,164 with low vision, 111 who are blind, 1,161 with hearing impairment, 1,641 with intellectual disabilities, and 1,673 with physical disabilities.

“Pupils with special needs will be granted an extra 20 minutes per hour for the Mathematics paper and 10 additional minutes per hour for other subjects,” he added. This year’s assessment, he noted, marks the first implementation of the revised curriculum, which is aligned with the 2023 edition of the 2014 Education and Training Policy.

Pupils will be examined in six core subjects–science, mathematics, geography and environment, arts and sports, Kiswahili, English language, and history and civics. Additionally, they will have the option to choose one of three elective subjects: French, Arabic, or Chinese.

Prof Mohamed said all logistical preparations have been finalised, including the distribution of exam papers and materials to councils and municipalities across the country. He added that invigilators have undergone comprehensive training, and security measures have been reinforced to safeguard the integrity of the assessment.

“We urge invigilators to conduct themselves professionally and in accordance with the set regulations. School owners are also cautioned against interfering with the process.

NECTA will not hesitate to disqualify any examination centre that compromises the security or credibility of the assessment,” he warned. Prof Mohamed further advised pupils to follow exam rules strictly and avoid any form of malpractice during the two-day exercise.

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Dodoma. The push for accelerating the integration of nature-based solutions (NbS) into Tanzania’s development and investment frameworks received fresh impetus after leading organisations convened a key meeting to discuss the agenda.

The CEO Roundtable of Tanzania (CEOrt), in collaboration with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the Agricultural Growth Corridor of Tanzania (AGCOT), convened a high-level workshop in Dodoma to discuss ways to address climate change solutions in agriculture. The NbS Mainstreaming Workshop brought together leaders from agribusiness, finance, and policy institutions to explore how nature-driven approaches can help businesses respond to climate risks while unlocking new opportunities for sustainable growth.

The event was officiated by Deputy Director of Environment at the Vice President’s Office, Mr Thomas Chali, who reaffirmed the government’s commitment to scaling up nature-based solutions as a key tool in achieving Tanzania’s climate goals. “As the country advances towards its emission reduction targets, nature-based solutions present a practical, scalable way to link environmental protection with socio-economic growth,” said Mr Chali.

Participants examined how ecosystem-based approaches such as agroforestry, soil and water restoration, and circular bio-economy models can strengthen supply chains, reduce operational risks, and align with global sustainability and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards. The CEOrt is positioning the private sector as a key driver of climate adaptation and green transformation.

Its work under the NBS-RESOLVE Project–funded by the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (Norad) and implemented in partnership with IUCN–seeks to equip businesses with the tools to integrate NbS into corporate sustainability strategies, financial planning, and reporting processes. The session was facilitated by Country Co-director and Associate Partner at Auxim, and the organisation’s lead on nature-based solutions, Mr Syakaa William.

CEOrt Project Manager, Ms Hawa Urungu, said that by 2050, Tanzania aspires to rank among Africa’s top three investment destinations, anchored on green, inclusive, and competitive growth. “To get there, we must see sustainability not as a compliance exercise but as a strategic opportunity–and NbS sits right at the intersection of the climate, ESG, and investment agenda,” she said.

Adding a voice from the agricultural sector, Cluster and Partnerships Manager at AGCOT, Mr John Nakei, highlighted the sector’s readiness to scale up action. “Agriculture sits at the centre of both climate vulnerability and opportunity.

By adopting nature-based solutions, agribusinesses can restore soil health, improve water efficiency, and unlock green investment,” he said. “This approach is not just good for the environment; it’s smart economics that ensures long-term competitiveness for Tanzanian farmers and agribusinesses,” he added.

The workshop emphasised that integrating NbS can address several of Tanzania’s most pressing challenges–from soil degradation, water scarcity, and biodiversity loss to the need for climate-smart investments that deliver both financial and environmental returns. .

Dar es Salaam. With just eight days to go before Tanzania’s general election on October 29, 2025, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Election Observation Mission (SEOM) has begun preparations to assess the country’s democratic foundations, including human rights.

SEOM, which arrived in Tanzania on October 12, has deployed observers to 27 regions, though logistical challenges have prevented coverage in four regions: Mtwara, Tabora, Shinyanga, and Tanga. Speaking at the launch of the observation activities on October 21, SEOM head in Tanzania and former Speaker of Malawi’s National Assembly, Richard Msowoya, said the mission would examine citizen participation in democratic processes.

He said that the observers would assess whether Tanzanians enjoy human rights and freedoms such as freedom of assembly, expression, and association, as well as the legal frameworks governing elections. The mission will also evaluate measures to prevent corruption, bribery, bias, political violence, intimidation, and suppression of opinions.

Observers will review whether all political parties have equal access to government media and information channels. “To fulfil its mandate, SEOM will assess, among other things, whether the constitutional and legal frameworks guarantee freedom of expression, freedom of assembly, freedom of association, and human rights,” Msowoya said.

He said that the mission would also examine the electoral system, the Electoral Management Body (EMB), election laws and regulations, and the scope of civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights. Msowoya noted that SEOM will ensure electoral boundaries are drawn transparently and legally and that any changes follow legitimate, lawful reasons.

The head of the mission said SEOM has met various electoral stakeholders and will continue consultations throughout the pre-election, election, and post-election periods. Deputy Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Said Saib Mussa, said Tanzania’s elections are conducted according to democratic principles, and SADC observers have been invited to ensure a free and fair process.

“This is a way to assess ourselves internally and within SADC, of which we are members. Their main role is to observe the elections, not direct them.

They are not allowed to intervene,” Mussa said. He said that SEOM will monitor election campaigns, voter turnout and the announcement of results, before issuing a preliminary report.

Senior Officer for Politics and Diplomacy in SADC’s Secretariat, Terry Rose, said that following an official invitation from the Tanzanian government, Malawi President Prof Arthur Peter Mutharika — who also chairs SADC’s Organ on Politics, Defence and Security — established SEOM to observe Tanzania’s elections. “SEOM will engage key electoral stakeholders to gather perspectives and understand opinions on the electoral process.

The SADC Secretariat will facilitate consultations, while our observers work directly with stakeholders across the country,” Rose said .

MsoTitleFrom over 12,000 brands across the continent, SportPesa Tanzaniahas emerged as a continental champion — recognized as Africa’s Best Sports Betting Brand at the Best Brand Africa Awards.This recognition isn’t just a title; it’s proof that the brand’s commitment to trust, technology, and customer experience is setting new benchmarks for sports betting in Africa.

A journey built on vision and trust SportPesa Tanzania’s journey began with one clear mission — to redefine how fans experience sports betting in Tanzania through innovation and integrity. Out of thousands of competing brands, SportPesa’s customer-first approach distinguished it as the ultimate leader.

The Best Brands Africa Awards evaluation — combining market data and consumer sentiment — validated SportPesa’s influence beyond borders, reshaping how Africa engages with sport, betting, and entertainment. Customer trust at the core In an industry where credibility is king, SportPesa Tanzania has made unprecedented investments in secure betting systems, fast payment options, and data protection protocols to safeguard every user.

Players can bet confidently, knowing their funds and personal data are protected by top-tier encryption and compliant standards. “This win is proof that with a clear vision, consistency, and dedication, we truly make it count,” said Jason Ndambala, head of PR at SportPesa Tanzania.

That trust has transformed SportPesa into a household name — synonymous with reliability, integrity, and fair play. Innovation that keeps fans ahead SportPesa’s success lies in its relentless drive to innovate.

From live betting and mobile-first platforms to a growing portfolio of casino games in Tanzania, the brand is redefining what a modern, interactive betting experience feels like. Continuous updates, smarter tools, and improved personalization keep SportPesa ahead of trends — giving users a truly world-class experience designed for both excitement and safety.

A win that reflects passion and consistency This award is a celebration of SportPesa’s commitment to responsible gaming, customer satisfaction, and technological leadership. But beyond the accolades, it honors the millions of fans and players who make SportPesa their home for entertainment, community, and winning moments.

“Being named Africa’s Best Sports Betting Brand is not just a milestone — it’s a celebration of belief, innovation, and doing things right,” added the company. Setting the standard for Africa This continental recognition cements SportPesa Tanzania as a true leader in the digital gaming industry.

For fans, it’s a mark of quality. For competitors, it’s a challenge.

For Africa, it’s proof that homegrown excellence can rival global standards. Choosing SportPesa means choosing reliability, innovation, and trust — values that continue to power the brand’s rise beyond Tanzania’s borders.

SportPesa Tanzania’s victory at the Best Brand Africa Awards signals more than industry leadership — it’s a defining moment for African innovation. As the brand continues to inspire with its commitment to transparency and customer-first thinking, it’s clear that SportPesa is not just betting on sports — it’s betting on Africa’s potential.

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Unguja. Zanzibar President Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi has said that, for the first time, the share of domestic revenue has risen significantly, enabling the Isles to finance much of its operations using its own resources–thanks to robust digital systems and tighter revenue controls.

He said that through the Zanzibar Sukuk initiative, the government has successfully financed several strategic projects, strengthened investor confidence, and opened new avenues for private sector participation in national development. He said every strong economy depends on efficient revenue institutions, adding that his administration had implemented major reforms in tax collection and strengthened the Zanzibar Revenue Authority (ZRA) along with its internal systems.

“We have introduced digital tax collection systems that have significantly reduced revenue leakages, improved efficiency, and made compliance easier for taxpayers,” said Dr Mwinyi during a ceremony held at State House grounds in Zanzibar to celebrate the Isles’ economic and financial reforms, distribute dividends to investors in the Zanzibar Sukuk, and launch a new Islamic-compliant social security scheme. He noted that Zanzibar is now reaping the results of these efforts, with the economy growing by more than 7.

2 percent annually. He added that sound policies, modern systems, and prudent management of public finances continue to support Zanzibar’s economic expansion.

Dr Mwinyi further cited increased domestic and foreign investment, stable single-digit inflation, and a 278 percent rise in domestic revenue over the past five years, alongside strong performance in the services, tourism, agriculture, and fisheries sectors. He said the reforms are grounded in accountability, transparency, and effective use of modern technologies.

Speaking about the Sukuk, Dr Mwinyi said that after launching it in 2024, the government is now witnessing the first payout to investors–a milestone that demonstrates its effectiveness in managing sovereign instruments. “Through Sukuk, the government has financed strategic projects, strengthened investor confidence, and opened new doors for private sector participation in national development,” he said.

“This marks a new financial chapter that places Zanzibar on the global map of Islamic investment. We have every reason to celebrate these achievements and thank everyone who made them possible.

” Dr Mwinyi added that inclusive economic growth cannot be achieved without a solid insurance framework. To that end, the government, through the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC), has launched an Islamic insurance (Takaful) scheme designed to provide Sharia-compliant coverage.

He said the scheme is already improving access to health services, ensuring that hospitals and clinics receive timely funding, and giving citizens greater confidence in accessing quality healthcare. Speaking on the newly launched Sharia-based social security scheme, Dr Mwinyi said the initiative will allow the Zanzibar Social Security Fund (ZSSF) to invest in Sharia-compliant ventures–including facilitating Hajj (pilgrimage) arrangements for members.

Meanwhile, the Minister of State in the President’s Office (Finance and Planning), Dr Saada Mkuya Salum, commended Dr Mwinyi for steering significant financial and economic reforms over his five-year leadership term. “Leadership demands creativity and forward thinking, and the President has demonstrated both.

When he assumed office, the financial management systems were not in good shape, but he has turned that around,” she said. Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Finance and Planning, Mr Aboud Hassan Mwinyi, said that over the past five years, the Eighth Phase Government has implemented major reforms across the economic and financial sectors–forming the backbone of national development.

He said that during this period, actual revenue rose from Sh671 billion to Sh2.9 trillion, the central government budget increased from Sh1.5 trillion to Sh6.9 trillion, and the development budget share grew from 24 to 65 percent. Similarly, the national GDP expanded from S trillion to Sh6.5 trillion.

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Dar es Salaam. The Drug Control and Enforcement Authority (DCEA) has arrested four people accused of making cannabis biscuits during a house party in the city.

The suspects, all aged 26 and reported to be university students, were found celebrating a friend’s birthday at a house in Mlalakuwa, where the biscuits were allegedly being prepared. This is not the first time such products have been seized in incidents involving students, a trend that authorities say signals a growing risk among young people.

DCEA Commissioner General Aretas Lyimo said the suspects were found with 140 cannabis biscuits, eight rolls of marijuana, and nine packets of cannabis weighing a total of 2.858 kilogrammes.

“This shows how our young people are putting their lives in danger by engaging in the production of drug-laced products for leisure,” Mr Lyimo said. He urged university students to stay away from drug abuse and focus on their studies to achieve their dreams.

“Our youth are the country’s workforce. We want them to live healthy lives and avoid being misled into using drugs for entertainment.

The authority will not hesitate to take firm action against anyone involved in such offences,” he warned. In a separate operation, DCEA seized a total of 10,763.94 kilogrammes of various narcotic drugs, 6,007 kilogrammes and 153 litres of precursor chemicals during nationwide operations conducted between September and October 2025. At Kariakoo, Dar es Salaam, the authority intercepted 40.32 kilogrammes of dried khat disguised as spices and packed in 80 packets labelled “Dry Basil Leaves.

” The consignment was being shipped to Canada and Italy through courier companies. Two suspects were arrested, and initial investigations revealed that the drugs had been smuggled into Tanzania from a neighbouring country.

“Our investigation has uncovered a khat trafficking network using motorcycle riders and some courier agents to move drugs discreetly. This network risks damaging the country’s international image, and we will not tolerate it,” said Mr Lyimo.

He added that the authority is also investigating the use of cannabis in consumer products such as beverages, food, cosmetics, and electronic cigarettes (vapes), some of which have been found to contain cannabis compounds. Mr Lyimo said joint operations between DCEA and other security agencies across the regions led to the seizure of 9,164.92 kilogrammes of cannabis, 1,555.46 kilogrammes of khat, 367 grammes of skunk, and 7.

498 grammes of heroin, as well as the destruction of 11.5 acres of cannabis farms. He also warned motorcycle riders, transport company owners, and courier agents to be cautious with the goods they handle to avoid falling into legal trouble.

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Chalinze. In a small village in Chalinze District, laughter fills the air as 63-year-old Mwanaidi Seleman, a traditional birth attendant, welcomes visitors.

Her eyes gleam with life–a sharp contrast to the years she endured the blinding pain of trachoma, a disease that once robbed her of hope. Her left eye had gone blind, and many in her community believed she was cursed for “bearing too many children.

” Today, she shares her story with renewed joy. “I had lost all hope,” she says softly.

“But after receiving treatment through the government’s programme, I can now see clearly. God is good.

” Behind her recovery is Margreth Mumbua, a clinical officer and skilled trachoma trichiasis (TT) surgeon, whose compassion and precision have restored sight to hundreds across Chalinze. After graduating from Mvumi Clinical Training College in 2005, she received specialised training under the Ministry of Health’s trachoma elimination initiative.

“For nearly two decades, I’ve travelled to remote villages, performing eye surgeries for people who might otherwise have gone blind,” she says. “When I see my patients regain their vision, my heart is full.

” Breaking superstition Ms Margreth admits that superstition remains a major obstacle. “Many believe elderly people suffering from trachoma are witches.

It takes time to convince them that this disease is preventable and treatable,” she explains. To build trust, she learned local languages, saying this helped “break down walls of fear and mistrust.

” Among the hundreds she has treated, one patient remains unforgettable: Emmanuel, a commuter bus driver from Bagamoyo. He suffered from painful inward-turning eyelashes caused by trachoma.

His case was complicated by a heart condition and the use of blood-thinning drugs. Despite the risks, Margreth performed surgery.

Hours later, Emmanuel began bleeding and was rushed back. Margreth stabilised him but was called again late that night.

She drove through rough roads, reaching Bagamoyo at 1 a.m.

“My heart sank when I saw him,” she recalls. “But I knew I had to act.

” She worked tirelessly until 3:30 a.m.

, when the bleeding stopped. Two weeks later, Emmanuel’s eye had healed completely.

“That night will stay with me forever,” she says. Restoring hope For Margreth, her work is more than a profession–it is a calling.

She urges people to seek help early. “If something feels wrong with your eyes for more than two or three days, go to hospital.

Don’t wait for a miracle,” she advises. Ms Mwanaidi, who suffered for two years before getting surgery, says, “Margreth operated on my eye, cleaned it and kept checking on me.

Within two months, I was healed.” Another patient, Rosemary Masanja, known locally as Bibi Tito from Fukayosi in Bagamoyo, endured eye discomfort for nearly 20 years.

“One day, health workers came to register people with eye problems,” she recalls. “I was diagnosed with trachoma in both eyes and had surgery.

” After the operation, I could see clearly again.” National efforts According to Dr Faraja Lyamuya, the Ministry of Health’s Manager for Lymphatic Filariasis and Hydrocele Control, community participation remains a challenge in eliminating trachoma.

“To end this disease, community involvement is crucial,” he says. National NTD Programme Manager Dr Clarer Mwansasu says over 41,000 trachoma surgeries have been conducted since 2014. When the SAFE strategy–Surgery, Antibiotics, Facial cleanliness, and Environmental improvement–was introduced in 1999, 69 communities had active trachoma cases.

“As of 2025, 64 districts have reached elimination thresholds,” he notes. “TT cases have dropped from 167,000 in 2004 to about 10,000 in 2023.” However, over one million people remain at risk, especially in pastoral communities that migrate frequently.

For health workers like Margreth, every successful surgery is more than a medical milestone–it is a victory against darkness, ignorance, and avoidable blindness. .