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Dar es Salaam. The Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with the CEO Roundtable of Tanzania (CEOrt) in a bid to enhance dialogue aimed at improving the business environment, boosting tax compliance, and supporting national revenue growth.

Speaking during a high-level meeting organised by the CEOrt on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, TRA Commissioner General Yusuph Mwenda said the authority was shifting from a forceful tax collection approach to one that promotes cooperation and facilitation. “Our direction now is to enable rather than to compel.

A modern tax system should make it easier for businesses to meet their obligations, grow, and create jobs,” said Mr Mwenda. “As we pursue the National Development Vision 2050, collaboration with the private sector through CEOrt is essential for building an inclusive and resilient economy.

” The meeting, which brought together senior TRA officials, CEOrt members, government representatives, and tax experts, focused on strengthening tax administration, identifying priority policy reforms, and promoting private-sector participation in shaping tax policies. Mr Mwenda noted that the government had prioritised improving the business climate, including the establishment of the National Tax Review Committee, which includes members from the CEOrt.

CEOrt board member David Nchimbi emphasised the need for transparent and predictable tax systems, saying they were key to attracting investors and accelerating sustainable development. “This meeting provides a vital platform for open dialogue between the government and the private sector, enabling practical policy reforms aligned with business realities,” said Mr Nchimbi.

CEOrt board chairperson David Tarimo said the discussions centred on critical issues such as tax assessments, compliance facilitation, and building mutual trust between TRA and the business community. “CEOrt will continue to act as a bridge for evidence-based dialogue between the private sector and the government.

Honest and respectful engagement fosters solutions that strengthen governance and business growth,” said Mr Tarimo. Participants commended TRA for continuing its digital transformation agenda, while urging fair and consistent interpretation of tax laws across all sectors.

The meeting took place as TRA reported robust revenue performance. In the first quarter of the 2025/26 financial year, domestic revenue collection reached Sh8.97 trillion–exceeding its target by over six percent.

CEOrt, which brings together more than 230 institutions and companies from various sectors, marks its 25th anniversary this year of championing private-sector development in Tanzania. MultiChoice Tanzania Managing Director and CEOrt member Jackline Woiso expressed optimism about ongoing cooperation between the private sector and the government, saying it would foster an enabling investment climate and promote inclusive, sustainable growth.

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Pemba. The United Democratic Party (UDP) presidential candidate, Ms Saumu Hussein Rashid, has pledged to create a better business environment for Pemba traders and entrepreneurs, making their work easier, more efficient, and profitable.

Speaking on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, during a visit to Tibirinzi Market in Chakechake, South Unguja, as part of his election campaign tour, Ms Rashid assured that if elected to lead Zanzibar, her government would provide low-interest loans to enable entrepreneurs to grow their businesses and contribute to the national economy. “Our aim at UDP is to open economic opportunities so that every Tanzanian can achieve stability and self-sufficiency,” he said, noting that many entrepreneurs fail to expand due to lack of capital.

“When I assume office, I will create a business-friendly environment where every entrepreneur can access capital to grow, helping them achieve independence,” she added. Ms Rashid promised that if elected, she will ensure better business conditions and work to provide affordable loans so that every entrepreneur can benefit.

She said, beyond addressing capital shortages, she would reduce taxes to lower the cost of doing business. “It is unacceptable to complain about high taxes when transporting goods.

I will significantly cut taxes to ease your work and strengthen businesses,” she said. Ms Rashid said her government would build industries in every region based on local economic activities, creating income opportunities for all.

She further promised improved infrastructure for Pemba’s traders, noting that close business ties between Pemba and Tanga. “We will build modern port facilities and provide contemporary boats to facilitate trade,” she said.

A trader, Mr Ali Khamis Ali, urged Ms Rashid to tackle taxation issues, saying they hinder business. He expressed confidence that reduced taxes and access to capital would empower traders.

His colleague, Mr Muhammed Juma Rehan, called for a modern, integrated market to gather all businesses in one location. “It is inconvenient for buyers to search for goods in different markets,” he said.

Earlier, after arriving at Pemba Airport, Ms Rashid visited Wawi Village to pay tribute at the grave of the late Vice-President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr Omar Ali Juma, offering prayers. She affirmed that her party values the sacrifices of the nation’s founding leaders who fought for justice and nation-building.

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Dar es Salaam. The Government of Tanzania has confirmed that it is engaging the United States through diplomatic channels following Washington’s decision to impose a visa bond requirement on Tanzanian nationals applying for short-term business and tourist visas.

The U.S.

Department of State announced that, effective October 23, 2025, Tanzanians seeking B-1 (business) and B-2 (tourism) visas will be required to post a refundable bond ranging between $5,000 and $15,000 before travelling to the United States. The decision places Tanzania among seven African countries included in the visa bond pilot programme–alongside Malawi, Zambia, The Gambia, Mali, Mauritania, and SaPound o Tome and Principe.

According to the U.S.

State Department, the move is based on findings from the Department of Homeland Security’s 2024 Entry/Exit Overstay Report, which identified countries with relatively high rates of visa overstays. The bonds, intended to ensure compliance with U.

S. immigration rules, will be refunded in full once travellers return home within their authorised stay, or if they do not use the visa before it expires.

However, the amount will be forfeited if a traveller overstays or violates visa conditions. Applicants will be instructed by consular officers on how to post the bond through the U.

S. Treasury using the official DHS Form I-352. Payments made through any other channels will not be refunded.

In addition, visa holders covered by the new measure will be required to enter and exit the U.S.

through specific airports — Boston Logan International (BOS), John F. Kennedy International (JFK), and Washington Dulles International (IAD) — to facilitate compliance monitoring.

Tanzania’s response In a statement issued on October 8, 2025, the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports said the government had officially received communication from Washington on the new visa bond requirement. Government Spokesperson Gerson Msigwa said Tanzania remains committed to maintaining cordial relations with the U.

S. despite the new measure.

“The Government will continue to engage the United States through diplomatic channels to seek a fair, respectful, and mutually beneficial resolution,” said Mr. Msigwa.

“Our relationship with the U.S.

has been built on friendship, cooperation, and mutual respect for more than four decades.” He added that the measure comes at a time when both countries are already holding discussions on migration and immigration matters.

“We assure the public that the government will continue to handle this matter diplomatically and provide updates as discussions progress,” he said. Mr.

Msigwa further emphasised that the move should not be seen as a diplomatic setback, describing it instead as a temporary administrative step that could be resolved through continued dialogue. The government has urged Tanzanians planning to visit the United States to continue following standard visa application procedures through the U.

S. Embassy in Dar es Salaam or other designated missions abroad.

Under the new arrangement, applicants will only be required to post a bond after being directed to do so by a consular officer. Making payments in advance will not guarantee visa issuance and could result in financial loss.

A U.S.

State Department clarification noted that the visa bond pilot programme does not change visa eligibility requirements, but adds a financial assurance mechanism aimed at improving compliance with immigration laws. The visa bond initiative was introduced under Section 221(g)(3) of the U.

S. Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and implemented through a Temporary Final Rule (TFR).

It primarily targets non-immigrant visa categories with historically high overstay rates. Regional context Tanzania joins Malawi and Zambia, where the policy has been in force since August 2025, and The Gambia, where implementation began in October 2025. Analysts say the inclusion of several African countries reflects Washington’s growing focus on managing migration and improving compliance among short-term visitors.

Critics, however, argue that the measure could create financial and logistical hurdles for genuine travellers — including businesspeople, researchers, and tourists — who contribute to economic and cultural exchange between Africa and the United States. The Tanzanian government has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding citizens’ interests abroad while preserving its long-standing partnership with the United States.

“This development will not alter Tanzania’s resolve to maintain and strengthen its good relations with the United States for the mutual benefit of both nations,” the official statement stressed. .

Shinyanga. The construction of a solar power generation project in Shinyanga Region, has reached 78.5 percent completion, marking progress in the first phase of producing 50 megawatts (MW).

The update was provided yesterday, by the Commissioner for Electricity and Renewable Energy at the Ministry of Energy, Mr Innocent Luoga, during his inspection visit to assess the project’s implementation and address any challenges encountered on site. Mr Luoga said at Ngunga Village in Talaga Ward, Kishapu District, that the government is satisfied with the progress of the project, which will add 50MW to the national grid and help to reduce power shortages by increasing electricity supply to citizens.

“Our current power sources are still limited, as we mainly depend on hydropower and natural gas. However, we are now diversifying through alternative sources such as solar, wind and geothermal energy,” said Mr Luoga.

He noted that expanding the country’s energy sources enhances national energy security, ensuring continued electricity supply even when water levels drop or gas production declines. Mr Luoga commended the government for allocating significant funds to the energy sector, which has enabled the successful implementation of projects such as the Ngunga solar plant.

He added that Shinyanga Region’s current electricity demand stands at about 102MW, and the completion of the Ngunga facility is expected to boost power availability and stability in the region. Project Manager Emmanuel Mbando said implementation began on December 8, 2023, and that the first phase — which will produce 50MW — is expected to be completed by December this year.

“All the required equipment for the project has already been delivered. What remains is to ensure the contractor speeds up the remaining work so that the first phase is completed by December,” said Mr Mbando.

The project’s consulting engineer, Mr Godwin Mpinzile, also expressed gratitude to the government for supporting the initiative, noting that it will bring significant benefits to the nation by providing reliable electricity and addressing existing power challenges. .

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania’s national football team, Taifa Stars, will tonight take on Zambia in their final Group E fixture of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers at the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar, with kickoff scheduled for 10pm.

Tanzanian time. The encounter carries high stakes for Taifa Stars, who not only aim to finish their qualifying campaign on a positive note but also keep alive their slim hopes of advancing to the CAF World Cup play-offs.

Morocco have already secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, the first time in history that three nations will jointly stage the global showpiece. However, Tanzania remain mathematically in contention for a play-off berth, depending on results from other groups.

Currently, Taifa Stars sit second in Group E with 10 points from seven matches, while Zambia occupy fourth place with six points from six games. Niger are third with three points from two matches, and Congo Brazzaville are bottom without a point after one fixture.

Congo Brazzaville will also host Morocco later today in another group encounter. Head coach Hemed “Morocco” Suleiman expressed confidence in his squad’s readiness, noting that preparations have gone according to plan.

“Everything is okay in camp; every player is eager and motivated to face Zambia. They are in good shape, and I believe we will come out with smiling faces,” he said.

Statistics show that the two nations have met nine times since 2009, with Taifa Stars winning twice, Zambia three times, and four matches ending in draws. Tanzania claimed victory in their most recent meeting, a 10 win at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola on June 11 in the same qualification campaign.

Taifa Stars’ mathematical route to the play-offs Despite their position in the standings, Tanzania still have a mathematical chance of reaching the CAF World Cup play-offs. This follows a CAF adjustment that will see six points deducted from all other runners-up teams to equalize the number of matches after Eritrea’s withdrawal reduced Group E to five teams instead of six.

The deduction creates a fairer comparison across all groups and keeps Tanzania’s hopes faintly alive, though much will depend on other teams dropping points in their remaining fixtures. As things stand, Gabon lead the runners-up standings with 19 points, followed by Madagascar and DR Congo (16 each), Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Namibia, and Uganda (15 each), South Africa (14), and Tanzania (10).

According to the qualification format, the four best runners-up across all groups will progress to the CAF play-offs, which will determine Africa’s sole representative in the inter-confederation play-offs. The inter-confederation stage will feature six teams, one each from AFC, CONMEBOL, and OFC, two from CONCACAF, and one from CAF.

The four lowest-ranked teams will meet in two single-leg knockout games, with the winners facing the two highest-ranked teams for the final two World Cup slots. .

Dar es Salaam. DB Lioness head coach, Mohammed Mchenga, has described their second consecutive Dar es Salaam Women’s Basketball League (WBDL) title as a hard-fought achievement.

Guiding BD Lioness through 22 league matches, Mchenga recorded 19 wins and three losses, leading the team to retain the championship. Speaking to The Citizen yesterday, he noted that this season’s league was far more competitive compared to the previous one, largely driven by the lucrative prize packages offered by betting firm betPawa and Vodacom Tanzania.

Mchenga explained that betPawa provided Sh88, 750 through the “Locker Room Bonus” to each of the 12 players and four team officials. In total, based on their performance and number of victories, DB Lioness collected approximately Sh27 million from the betting firm alone.

Vodacom Tanzania further incentivized competition by setting aside Sh10 million for the title winner. “All this prize money encouraged all teams to fight harder, making the league extremely competitive.

I commend my players for their fighting spirit, they fully deserved to win the title,” said Mchenga. DB Lioness sealed their championship in emphatic fashion by recording a 3-0 sweep over JKT Stars in the final series.

The team’s dominance throughout the season was marked by consistent performances, strategic gameplay, and exceptional teamwork. Mchenga emphasized that the combination of rigorous training, strong team cohesion, and the motivation provided by the financial rewards contributed significantly to their success.

He also highlighted the growing professionalism in the league, noting that more clubs are now investing in better training facilities and player development programs. With back-to-back titles, DB Lioness have solidified their status as a powerhouse in Dar es Salaam women’s basketball.

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Dar es Salaam. Vodacom Tanzania has unveiled its newest branch at the recently opened East Africa Commercial and Logistics Centre (EACLC) in Ubungo, featuring a dedicated service desk designed to cater for customers with disabilities.

Speaking during the launch, Vodacom Tanzania Chief Executive, Officer Philip Besiimire, said the new branch reflects the company’s continued commitment to inclusion as it marks 25 years of operations in the country. “As we commemorate 25 years of connecting and empowering our customers, we are proud to reinforce our inclusion agenda through the expansion of our customer support footprint and the launch of another service desk for people with disabilities,” said Mr Besiimire.

Vodacom’s Consumer Business Unit Director, Ms Brigita Shirima, highlighted that the company’s inclusion efforts are evident through a range of initiatives designed to accommodate customers with diverse needs. “From dedicated sign language interpreters and WhatsApp video call support for deaf customers, priority handling for registered blind customers, to wheelchair-accessible ramps and now accessible service tables designed for customers using wheelchairs these efforts reflect our commitment to ensuring that every customer is served with respect, care, and convenience,” she said.

Head of Customer Experience and Digital Care, Ms Belinda Wera, said the company has lined up several activities to celebrate the week, including recognising customers, partners across the M-Pesa ecosystem, and staff members. “This week we will be recognising and celebrating not just our customers but also our partners and teams that work tirelessly to serve them day and night.

Recognising that we do not exist in isolation, we will also engage in community activities as a way of thanking Tanzanians for their continued support over the years,” said Ms Wera. Through digital platforms such as VodaTube and its digital care channels, the company continues to promote digital literacy and financial education, empowering customers to make informed choices and fully benefit from mobile technology.

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Mwanza. Former CCM Secretary-General, Dr Bashiru Ally, has assured Tanzanians that the ruling party’s presidential candidate, Samia Suluhu Hassan, possesses the experience and resilience to steer the nation safely through challenges.

Speaking at Nyamagana Grounds in Mwanza on 8 October 2025, Dr Bashiru said President Hassan has faced significant trials and demonstrated her ability to overcome them. He urged citizens to place full confidence in her leadership ahead of the upcoming polls.

“Some people say that young people will destroy their country. I don’t understand them.

Tanzanian youth cannot break their own nation,” he declared, as the crowd erupted in cheers. Dr Bashiru said that national unity, peace and stability must always be protected.

He reminded voters that Tanzania remained steadfast even during the sudden passing of the late President John Magufuli, when Samia assumed the nation’s leadership. “If our country has remained united, if CCM has stayed strong, and if peace and security have prevailed during a time of sudden change, then it is clear we are safe under her guidance,” he said.

He dismissed voices attempting to stir division and unrest. “These are distractions being orchestrated by a few.

Let us not entertain anything that risks shaking the foundations of our peace. Samia is a treasure of experience in leading during tough times.

I have no doubt that the same Tanzanians who prayed for her and stood with her will now vote for her to continue guiding this country forward.” Addressing the crowd, he added: “We must not lose focus.

We must not encourage anything that takes us off track from nation-building. Samia is asking for your trust because she has been tested, and she has prevailed.

With her, Tanzania will remain safe.” Meanwhile, Arusha Urban parliamentary candidate Paul Makonda called on Tanzanians, particularly the youth, to support President Hassan and shield her from unwarranted attacks.

He recalled how a group of detractors had previously insulted the late President Magufuli, and are now targeting President Hassan despite her achievements. “My brothers and sisters, when my late brother John Magufuli was president, there was a group that insulted him day and night.

He has since passed on, and now the same group insults Samia. But where are you, Tanzanians, to defend her? Where are you, energetic youth, to stand with her?” he asked.

Makonda challenged critics operating from abroad who spread negativity on social media. “Most of them don’t even live here.

Yesterday, they started attacking me online. But I tell them, leave Samia to lead this nation.

If you want a fight, come and face Makonda. I am ready,” he said, drawing laughter and applause.

He stressed a rallying call ahead of the 29 October election: “On that day, I ask you all to go out and vote for Samia. Let us give her the mandate to continue building our nation.

” The Nyamagana rally ended in jubilant cheers, with supporters chanting Samia’s name and pledging loyalty to CCM’s campaign. .

Independent Tanzanian-Ethiopian-Kenyan artiste Turunesh is celebrating a major milestone after her project “Nesha’s Cypher” made it onto the Grammy ballot, marking a rare recognition for an alternative and experimental musician from East Africa. Sharing the news on Instagram, the Canada-based artiste expressed deep gratitude for being part of this year’s Recording Academy consideration, highlighting the importance of representation for the region’s underground and alternative music scene.

“It’s not every day that an independent, experimental artiste from Tanzania/Ethiopia/Kenya is on the Grammy ballot,” Turunesh wrote. “Grateful to be representing the alt and underground scene in East Africa and Canada.

” Nesha’s Cypher is described as a “sonic and visual labour of love,” blending genres, cultures, and sounds to create a project rooted in collaboration and community. “So many hands and hearts came together to push boundaries in the studio and on set to create something truly unique.

For them I’m so grateful,” she added, thanking Recording Academy voting members “for making this consideration happen and for championing the new wave of music rising from the East.” The record, executive produced and written by Turunesh, features a global team of collaborators including producers Chrybuu, Timlyre, Zaiah Zoundz, Erostayo and Txpski, alongside live instrumentation from Aanderson guitarist, Pacohamusic and others.

Turunesh, who continues to blur genre lines between RandB, Afro-fusion, and experimental soul, credited her creative team, from producers to stylists for bringing Nesha’s Cypher to life, describing it as “a record that pushes boundaries both musically and visually.” The recognition underscores the growing influence of East African alternative artistes on the global stage and highlights Turunesh’s commitment to telling authentic stories through sound, visuals, and collaboration.

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