Can Tanzania Bring East and Southern Africa Together On East DRC?

Tanzania’s geographical location and conflict mediation experience make it well placed to bridge the region’s various peace efforts.

Tanzania is a member of both the East and Southern African regional organisations currently trying to resolve the conflict in east Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Although often regarded as affiliating more with the south, Tanzania could use its history of conflict mediation – and its geographical location – to align the two blocs’ priorities on the crisis.

After the DRC joined the East African Community (EAC) in 2022, the EAC-led Nairobi Process deployed the East African Community Regional Force (EACRF) to east DRC. Tanzania participated in the Nairobi Process and helped finance it, but didn’t contribute troops. At the time, it had already sent soldiers and logistical support to the Southern African Development Community (SADC) mission in Mozambique.

When the DRC declined to extend EACRF’s mandate due to its inability to rein in the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group, SADC stepped in. It deployed the SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC) in December 2023, giving it an offensive mandate against the insurgents.

Tanzania, along with Malawi and South Africa, committed troops to the mission – reviving concerns that Tanzania aligned more with Southern than East Africa on regional matters. However, the country has stressed its commitment to both SADC and the EAC efforts in the DRC.

Tanzania has long been a pivotal actor in resolving conflicts in the Great Lakes region. It facilitated the Rwandan peace talks, which led to the Arusha Accords that preceded the 1994 genocide. It played a similar role in the Burundi peace process during the 2000s, contributing significantly to another set of agreements (also called the Arusha Accords).

Tanzania was also a leading supporter of Southern African nations during their liberation struggles, serving as a sanctuary and strategic base for key figures in Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Angola and South Africa’s independence movements. Tanzania provided them with logistical support and moral backing, highlighting the country’s dedication to the cause of African unity.

However, despite these notable efforts, the perception that Tanzania gravitates more towards the south has grown. Can the country reconcile this view with its role in East Africa’s peace efforts? And can it use its membership of both SADC and the EAC to mediate their different approaches?

While both blocs seek to stabilise east DRC, SADC targets inter-state issues between the DRC and Rwanda, whereas the EAC’s Nairobi Process focuses on the broader conflict involving various armed groups. Although the approaches are complementary, regional organisations need to work together on a long-term solution to the conflict.

In August, Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan was appointed Chair of the SADC Troika on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation. This position could enhance the country’s role in regional stability, creating a bridge between East and Southern African approaches in east DRC.

In July, Tanzania hosted a retreat of East African Community and foreign affairs ministers in Zanzibar to discuss regional integration and security, including the east DRC crisis. The meeting concluded that a political settlement was the most viable path to lasting peace and security in the region. It recommended convening an EAC heads of state summit to reinvigorate the Nairobi Process, working in tandem with the Luanda Process.

The Luanda Process – led by Angolan President João Lourenço on behalf of the African Union – recently held inter-ministerial dialogues between Rwanda and the DRC. Despite brokering several ceasefires and agreements, the initiative faces significant hurdles, and fighting between M23 and the Congolese army continues. While the Luanda Process works through bilateral mechanisms, a revitalised Nairobi Process could involve more countries.

Tanzania’s decision not to contribute troops to the EACRF was strategic. Foreign ministry officials told ISS Today that a diplomatic fallout with Rwanda in 2013 over proposed negotiations with the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) – a Hutu rebel group active in east DRC – informed its decision to remain neutral as DRC-Rwanda tensions grew.

This stance served Tanzania well, improving relations with Rwanda and safeguarding its broader geostrategic interests in the region. After entering the EAC in 2002, the DRC overtook Kenya and Uganda to become Tanzania’s leading export market.

Although SAMIDRC is struggling to show results in east DRC, its three troop-contributing countries were instrumental in the 2013 United Nations Force Intervention Brigade, which helped restore stability by defeating M23. Despite SAMIDRC’s chronic personnel, equipment and funding shortages, Tanzania remains committed to the mission and the importance of regional coalitions in addressing the crisis.

Tanzania’s decision to participate in the SADC mission reflects historical and geopolitical considerations. While acknowledging its long-standing ties and responsibilities within SADC, it’s also mindful of its EAC membership, navigating between its commitments in these two regions.

This dual involvement positions Tanzania as a bridge to harmonise the strategic interests of both EAC and SADC. And the EAC ministerial retreat in July underscored the country’s dedication to fostering this role.

Nicodemus Minde, Researcher, East Africa Peace and Security Governance, ISS Nairobi

Source: allafrica.com

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Tanzanian Students Drive Climate Action Through Tree Planting

The act of planting trees offers more than shade and fruit. It symbolizes a deeper mission–restoring soil, preserving water, and, for these students, living in Tanzania’s northern Rorya district, delivering a form of climate justice. The reforestation efforts are in step with Tanzania’s broader plans to fortify its agriculture and water systems against the advancing climate crisis.

MUSOMA, Tanzania, Oct 30 2024 (IPS) – At Gabimori primary school, located at Nyamagaro ward in Tanzania’s northern Rorya district, a 15-year-old Florence Sadiki kneels among polyethylene bags, carefully examining the seedlings she and her classmates have nurtured from tiny sprouts “We’ve planted many trees to make our school look better and to help fight climate change,” she says.

Sadiki is part of an inspiring grassroots movement in the east African country where students, teachers, and community members team up to fight environmental degradation through reforestation. In Rorya district, nestled on the shores of Lake Victoria, rampant deforestation driven by charcoal production has left the land barren. But the efforts of school environmental clubs, supported by the Lake Community Program (LACOP), are working to repair the damage.

The reality in Rorya is grim. Erratic rainfall and prolonged droughts have changed swathes of once-fertile land into dry savannas, a trend that has only accelerated since the initiative began in 2022. Spearheaded by the global charity World Neighbors and the Lake Community Development Foundation (LACODEFO), this initiative empowers students to plant trees and learn the entire process of growing them.

“We’re teaching students to set up their own nurseries,” says Idrisa Lema, the project officer. “It’s not enough to hand out seedlings. They need to learn the whole process–choosing drought-resistant species, improving soil with organic manure, and using techniques like mulching.” This holistic approach promotes sustainability and equips students with transferable skills that can help them for the rest of their lives.

In the past two years, the students have successfully planted 2,800 trees across five villages, a remarkable achievement that has already begun to bear fruit. Some once-dry water springs are starting to flow again. Yet challenges remain, particularly in Nyamagaro and neighboring Kyangasaga villages, where erratic rainfall and drought continue to hinder progress.

“Watering the trees is tough,” admits Alex Lwitiko, an environmental teacher at Rorya Girls’ School. “We’ve had to be strict with the students–otherwise, the trees wouldn’t survive.”

To adapt, students have switched to innovative solutions like bottle irrigation and even drilled water wells to support their young trees. “We focus on drought-resistant species and organic farming methods to give the trees the best chance,” Lwitiko says, emphasizing the program’s commitment to teaching sustainability.

Sadiki herself has learned to adapt. “I know how to graft trees and grow them in tough conditions now,” she says. “These trees are our future. They fight climate change, provide shade, and even improve soil fertility.”

In Tanzania, the impact of climate change is becoming increasingly severe. The country aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30 to 35 percent by 2030, a goal outlined in its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Despite its low carbon footprint–just 0.22 tons per capita compared to the global average of 7.58–Tanzania is reeling from climate-related disasters. Droughts, floods, and erratic weather patterns disrupt agriculture, drying up water sources and threatening economic stability.

For the rural poor, especially those who rely on farming–the backbone of the economy, making up 28 percent of GDP–the stakes are higher. But in places like Nyagisya and Rorya Girls Secondary Schools, students have taken up the fight. Through tree planting, they have become unlikely climate crusaders, tackling environmental degradation while improving food security and boosting local livelihoods.

The act of planting trees offers more than shade and fruit. It symbolizes a deeper mission–restoring soil, preserving water, and, for these students, delivering a form of climate justice. The reforestation efforts are in step with Tanzania’s broader plans to fortify its agriculture and water systems against the advancing climate crisis.

As these student-led initiatives flourish, they mirror Tanzania’s urgent call for global support. With limited resources, the country is striving to fulfill its commitments yet it recognizes that the battle against climate change is a collective endeavor that requires unity on a global scale.

Despite the promising efforts in Tanzania, significant challenges remain. One of the main hurdles is the unpredictability of funding. Tree-planting initiatives and climate adaptation programs require sustained financial support, but resources are often limited, local analysts say.

Without consistent funding, scaling up projects and maintaining long-term impact becomes difficult.

While students have embraced environmental stewardship, not all local households are on board. In some areas, livestock continues to graze on young saplings, undoing the hard work of reforestation. Additionally, cultural and economic pressures, such as the reliance on charcoal for income and firewood for cooking, contribute to ongoing deforestation, making conservation efforts harder.

Erratic rainfall and worsening drought conditions present another barrier. Water scarcity makes it harder to nurture newly planted trees, despite innovative solutions. These conditions also strain local agriculture, which many families depend on, increasing the urgency of balancing conservation with survival needs.

While Tanzania has ambitious climate goals, the gap between policy and practical implementation remains wide, particularly in rural areas where the effects of climate change are felt most acutely.

At Gabimori Primary School, students have embraced their role as environmental stewards. “They’ve seen how conservation affects their daily lives,” says teacher Witinga Mattambo. “They now understand the link between the trees and the food they eat.”

The impact is vivid for students like Sadiki. “I never realized trees were this important,” she says. “They bring rain and improve our environment.”

For Lema, this is only the beginning. By fostering leadership skills and engaging the broader community, the program is building a new generation of Tanzanians dedicated to environmental protection. “We’ve even seen parents get involved,” Lwitiko says. “They’re starting to plant trees in their own yards.”

Still, the program faces hurdles. Some households allow their livestock to graze on young saplings, undoing the hard work of the students. “It’s frustrating,” admits Lwitiko, “but we’re making progress, step by step.”

Lema has ambitious plans to expand the initiative.

“We’re training students to pass on their knowledge,” he says. “As they move on, they’ll teach younger students, and we’ll spread this effort to other schools.” But scaling the program will require more funding.

“We’re working on securing more resources and partnering with local governments to enforce tree-planting bylaws,” Lema explains. There are also plans to set up household tree nurseries, allowing families to earn extra income while contributing to conservation.

For Sadiki, the program’s impact is lasting.

“We have the duty to plant trees and protect our environment. It’s something we’ll carry with us for the rest of our lives.”

IPS UN Bureau Report

Follow @IPSNewsUNBureau

Source: allafrica.com

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BOT – Avoid Borrowing for Short-Term Needs

THE Bank of Tanzania (BoT) has advised citizens to refrain from taking loans solely to address short-term financial challenges, warning that such practices can lead to unsustainable debt burdens.

This comes amid growing concerns about the rise of personal borrowing, especially from digital lenders, which often leaves borrowers struggling with high-interest rates and unfavourable repayment terms.

The Bank of Tanzania (BoT) Senior Official, Mr Deogratias Mnyamani, said that many people take loans to meet immediate needs without fully understanding loan terms.

“There is still a major gap in financial literacy, with many Tanzanians borrowing to address short-term challenges but not considering all loan conditions.

“Many of them are simply borrowing to solve a problem at hand, but their repayment relies on faith and hope,” Mr Mnyamani said yesterday in an interview.

BoT’s latest monthly economic review shows that in August personal loans–primarily credit extended for small and medium enterprises (SMEs)–remained the largest component of credit to the private sector, at 36.4 per cent, followed by trade, at 12.8 per cent and agriculture, at 11.8 per cent. The total private sector loan portfolio was over 34tri/-.

He added that before borrowing, one should ensure they are satisfied with the terms and conditions to assess whether they can repay, rather than borrowing simply because they are in need.

Financial literacy, especially money borrowing, remains a challenge for many citizens. Therefore, the central bank has committed to continuing its efforts to provide financial education to increase public awareness.

In response to these challenges, BoT said it is on a verge of launching a national financial education campaign to help raise awareness about responsible borrowing.

“We believe this campaign will have a bigger impact in creating awareness to the public to enable them have informed decisions when it comes to borrowing,” he said.

Through increased financial literacy and tighter regulation of lenders, BoT aims to ensure borrowers are protected from predatory practices while promoting sustainable financial management among Tanzanians.

Last month, the central bank issued a new guidance note on digital lenders under tier 2 microfinance service providers, aimed at strengthening the supervision of digital lending operations in the country.

The regulator issued the guidance because digital lending grows in popularity, the need for a robust regulatory framework has become increasingly apparent.

“This aims to ensure compliance with financial consumer protection regulations, which include transparency, pricing, debt collection practices, protection of personal data and customer privacy,” the statement shows.

The commitment underscores the importance of safeguarding consumer interests in a rapidly evolving financial landscape.

Source: allafrica.com

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Tanzania to Host Investment Dialogue Forum

OVER 500 participants are expected to attend the investment dialogue forum in Dar es Salaam scheduled for tomorrow.

The forum will focus on informing foreign investors about the latest regulatory and tax reforms adopted by the government to facilitate investments in the country.

Briefing the media on Monday, the Director of Investment Promotion at the Tanzania Investment Centre (TIC), Mr. John Mnali said; “Through the dialogue forum, we aim to inform foreign investors on the various investment reforms, including tax incentives, that have been implemented by the government across all economic sectors.”

He added that the meeting will serve as a platform for investors to voice their challenges and receive tangible solutions and clarification from the TIC, in collaboration with other government agencies under the TIC’s one stop facilitation Centre, including the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) and the Business Registration and Licensing Agency (BRELA).

“The meeting will significantly connect foreign investors with TIC experts and representatives from the One Stop Facilitation Centre’s founding agencies, who have been invited for discussions and consultations aimed at enhancing investment,” he said.

The forum is co-organised by TIC and the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA).

ALSO READ: TIC, TRA team up to enhance investment

TRA’s Manager for Taxpayers Education, Mr. Paul Walalaze said the revenue authority will use the forum to update investors on recent tax reforms and payment systems.

“It is essential for investors to understand all tax incentive reforms being implemented by the government during the ongoing Financial Year 2024/2025,” Mr. Walalaze explained.

He explained that investments are vital source of revenue for the TRA, which is subsequently used to fund various development projects.

He commended the government, under President Samia Suluhu Hassan for making significant investment reforms, including the adoption of the new Investment Act, 2022.

“It is very important to note that since becoming operational, this act has attracted a notable influx of Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) and Domestic Investments (DIs),” he said.

Reports from TIC indicate that in the last Financial Year 2023/2024, a total of 707 projects were registered in the country, worth 7 billion US dollars (approximately 19tri/-), compared to 369 projects valued at 5.4 billion US dollars (14tri/-) recorded in the 2022/2023 Financial Year–representing a 91 per cent increase in investments. Approximately 43 per cent of all recorded projects were Foreign Direct Investm

Source: allafrica.com

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Tanzania, Zambia seek private investors for Tazara railway upgrade

Tanzania and Zambia are seeking for private investors for the Tanzania Zambia Railway Authority (Tazara) project amid growing demand for freight transport on the Southern Corridor.

Tanzania’s Transport minister, Prof Makame Mbarawa, said that they were reviewing laws and the railway operating policies to open the doors for public-private partnerships to operate railways, including the 1,860km Tazara line, to boost cargo business on the transport corridor that links Tanzania, Zambia, DR Congo, Angola and Zimbabwe.   

Prof Mbarawa said they were looking for parties to provide wagons and engines. 

The revamp of Tazara, part of which is being bankrolled by China, would be crucial for the Dar es Salaam port, a major gateway to Zambia, Zimbabwe and the DRC.

Tanzania, China and Zambia in September signed a memorandum of understanding to upgrade the Tazara to increase its capacity for transporting goods and passengers.

Pretoria-based Rovos Rail is the only private company which has been rolling its luxury, tourist vintage train between Cape Town in South Africa and Dar es Salaam through Tazara over the years.

Rovos Rail added Lobito in Angola to its annual circuit covering South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Tanzania then Lubumbashi in DR Congo on the Benguela Railway.

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Tanzania Takes Huge Leap in Cancer Treatment

Tanzania Takes Huge Leap in Cancer Treatment

TANZANIAN cancer patients stand to benefit from a new partnership between Hosplan and India’s Apollo Cancer Centre which aims to bring advanced treatments to the country.

Through a recent symposium held at Muhimbili National Hospital, medical professionals were introduced to new medications for treating blood and solid tumours.

Speaking at the symposium, Hematologist at Apollo Cancer Centre Mumbai, India, Dr Punit Jain, said that these new medications for treating blood cancers are primarily aimed at empowering local healthcare professionals to provide better care.

“We want to empower Tanzanian healthcare providers with the knowledge and tools necessary to deliver world-class cancer care. By sharing expertise and introducing advanced treatment protocols, the partnership aims to bridge the gap in cancer care and improve patient outcomes,” said Dr Jain.

He added, “Our presence in Tanzania is a testament to our commitment to global health, through knowledge exchange and collaboration, we aim to establish Tanzania as a centre of excellence for cancer care in the region.”

ALSO READ: Govt commits more funds for cancer

Solid tumour is an abnormal mass of tissue that usually does not contain cysts or liquid areas they may be benign (not cancer), or malignant (cancer).

Coordinator of Healthcare Services at Hosplan-Tanzania, Dr Nimrod Mtangwa, said that to ensure the provision of quality care to cancer patients.

“Hosplan has organised various symposia and health camps to facilitate knowledge exchange between Tanzanian and Indian cancer experts,” he said.

Dr Heri Tungaraza, a Tanzanian oncologist, expressed enthusiasm about the new medications.

“These drugs represent a significant leap forward in cancer therapy,” he said. “Their efficacy and reduced side effects offer hope to countless patients and have fewer side effects compared to chemotherapy,”

Scientists worldwide, including those at Apollo Cancer Centre, have made significant progress in developing innovative cancer treatments. Immunotherapies, such as monoclonal antibodies and CAR-T cell therapy, have shown promise in targeting and eliminating cancer cells.

Source: allafrica.com

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Tanzania, Russia Eye Joint Projects in Key Sectors

TANZANIA and Russia are contemplating on joint projects in energy, agriculture, infrastructure and tourism.

This transpired during a meeting between Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa and Russian Economic Development Minister Maxim Reshetnikov, on Monday in Dar es Salaam.

Russian delegation led by Reshetnikov arrived in the country on Monday to take part in the first meeting of the Russian-Tanzanian Intergovernmental Commission on trade and Economic Cooperation, set for today.

Prime Minister Majaliwa said their talks centered on strengthening economic, trade and investment cooperation between the two countries.

During their talks, PM Majaliwa assured Minister Reshetnikov that Tanzania is an ideal place to do business due to its stable environment and strategic location for trade.

“The Tanzanian government under Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan is committed to improving trade relations between Tanzania and friendly nations, including Russia. Through this visit, I am confident you will receive valuable insights to encourage trust in Tanzania as a prime destination for business,” he told the visiting Russian minister.

Highlighting Tanzania’s opportunities, the Prime Minister noted that the country has a coastline with ports in Dar es Salaam, Mtwara and Tanga, and it borders major lakes like Victoria, Tanganyika and Nyasa, each with several ports.

Lake Victoria has ports in Kagera, Mwanza and Musoma. Lake Tanganyika has ports in Kigoma, Kabwe and Kasanga, while Lake Nyasa has ports in Mbamba Bay, Ndumbi and Kyela.

He explained that these ports are connected by roads, the central railway, TAZARA and the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), all facilitating efficient transportation of goods both within and beyond Tanzania.

ALSO READ: Russia to offer 90 scholarships for Tanzanians

“We have reliable transport from Dar es Salaam to Kapiri Mposhi in Zambia, enabling goods to reach other countries. When the SGR is completed, it will allow for freight transport to Rwanda, Uganda and DR Congo.”

Prime Minister Majaliwa also invited Russian investors to explore opportunities in Tanzania’s vast and fertile land suitable for agricultural production.

“Tanzania aims to become a hub for food production in Africa,” he said.

PM Majaliwa highlighted the advantages of investing in Tanzania, primarily the assurance of a large customer base, saying with a population of over 61 million, Tanzania provides access to the East African market of over 300 million people and to the SADC region, also with a market of over 300 million.

“Tanzania serves as a gateway to eight neighbouring countries, with two others on the verge of joining. These include Kenya, Uganda, DRC, Rwanda, Burundi, Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique. Comoros and South Sudan have also expressed interest and discussions are ongoing with Somalia,” noted Premier Majaliwa.

Earlier, Minister Reshetnikov explained that the two countries have agreed to strengthen economic cooperation, trade and investment.

As part of this, they will hold the first meeting of the Russia-Tanzania Joint Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation today to solidify this relationship.

He stated that the meeting results from an agreement signed on December 29, 2022, to enhance economic and trade cooperation.

“We stand ready to help the Tanzanian economy maintain the high pace that has been achieved in the energy, agriculture, infrastructure development and tourism sectors,” Reshetnikov said, adding that around 50 Russian companies are taking part in a Russia-Tanzania business forum these days.

“Mutual political and diplomatic understanding between our countries provides good preconditions for stepping up trade and economic interaction. There is considerable unused potential. According to our estimates, trade between our countries could double,” Mr Reshetnikov said.

He mentioned reliable historical relations between the Russian and Tanzanian governments, business communities and individuals.

Tanzanian businesses have displayed a huge interest in Russia and Russian businesses are willing to enter new markets, invest in joint projects and share technology, the Russian Minister said.

Source: allafrica.com

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Tanzania: Unesco’s Alwaleed Project to Promote Culture, Education in Tanzania

UNESCO has launched the Alwaleed Philanthropies project aimed at empowering communities and enhancing culture and arts while strengthening technical and vocational skills for sustainable development in Tanzania.

Led by HRH Princess Lamia bint Majed Al Saud, Alwaleed Philanthropies works globally to combat poverty, empower women and youth and foster intercultural understanding.

Titled “Crafting Change: Fostering Community-Based Development through Culture-Related Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and Employment,” the project seeks to create economic opportunities for youth and women while preserving Tanzania’s rich cultural heritage.

This initiative is part of a three-year partnership between UNESCO and Alwaleed Philanthropies, aligned with the recently adopted global Framework for Culture and Arts Education, which emphasises local cultures, teacher training and recognition of artistic skills.

During the kick-off hybrid meeting in Dar es Salaam, Michel Toto, Head of Office and Representative to Tanzania, shared that the project aims to create lasting community impacts through financial and technical support for five selected projects.

UNESCO Programme Coordinator Ke Leng noted that the focus on community-based development will enhance the capacities of local cultural institutions as knowledge hubs and skill incubators.

Boniface Kadili, Director of Culture in Tanzania, described the project as a milestone in harnessing the role of culture and arts through TVET and community-based development approaches. He emphasised that this education will help preserve Tanzania’s unique cultural heritage and promote cultural entrepreneurs as agents of economic transformation.

ALSO READ: EAC, UNESCO renew commitment to enhance collaboration

In June 2024, UNESCO called for project proposals, receiving 38 applications from local civil society organisations. After a thorough evaluation, five outstanding projects were selected to receive funding: Mwanyanya Green Society, Tanzania Media for Community Development (TAMCODE), Youth Alliance for Progress Organisation (YAPO), Readership for Learning and Development (SOMA) and the Centre for African Development through Economics and the Arts (ADEA).

The joint UNESCO-Alwaleed Philanthropies project aims to strengthen the role of culture and arts through TVET, promoting the economic and social importance of cultural heritage in Tanzania.

The kick-off meeting included officials from various ministries, UNESCO staff from Dar es Salaam and Paris, grantees and social media influencers.

Source: allafrica.com

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Tanzania: A Glimpse Into Tanzania’s Political Turmoil Ahead of 2025 Election

Dar es Salaam — At a rally to mark International Youth Day on August 12 in Tanzania’s southern Mbeya region, John Mnyika stood with a determined expression, addressing his supporters. The air was charged with anticipation. Mnyika, the Secretary-General of Tanzania’s opposition party, Chadema, was preparing to speak about the upcoming elections when the chaos erupted. Without warning, heavily armed police officers stormed the event, grabbed Mnyika, and dragged him away.

Amid the fracas, an officer ripped the rimless eyeglasses from Mnyika’s face and callously crushed them underfoot. “They beat me with clubs and the barrels of their guns,” Mnyika would later recount. “It was a calculated move to humiliate and silence us.” His voice trembled with anger, but he remained resolute. The brutality of that day was not an isolated event–it was a sign of a deeper malaise in Tanzania’s political landscape.

Tanzania’s promised reforms

When Samia Suluhu Hassan assumed the presidency in 2021, following the death of John Magufuli, there was hope for a new dawn. Samia, the first female leader of Tanzania, had promised to usher in a new era of democratic reform. She lifted bans on political rallies, allowed media outlets to reopen, and signaled a commitment to freedom of speech.

For a brief moment, it seemed as though Tanzania was emerging from the shadow of autocracy. Opposition parties, long suppressed under Magufuli’s rule, were allowed to hold rallies once more. Political discourse blossomed, and for the first time in years, the country appeared to be on the path toward genuine democracy.

But as the 2024 local elections approached, those hopes began to fade. The government’s promises of reform gave way to a resurgence of authoritarian tactics. The optimism that had accompanied Samia’s ascent to power was slowly being replaced by fear and uncertainty. Political violence was on the rise, opposition leaders were being silenced, and dissent was once again being met with brutal repression.

The return of repression

Mnyika’s ordeal was just one of many incidents that signaled a return to the heavy-handed tactics of the Magufuli era. On the same day as his arrest, Chadema Vice-Chairperson Tundu Lissu, along with over 500 supporters, was detained in what appeared to be a coordinated crackdown on the opposition. Lissu, who survived an assassination attempt in 2017, has long been a vocal critic of the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party.

“We are witnessing the death of democracy in real-time,” Lissu told reporters after his release. “The government wants to crush any form of opposition, and they are willing to use violence to achieve that goal.”

The Tanzanian government’s crackdown on opposition figures has not gone unnoticed. International human rights organizations and foreign governments have raised alarms about the escalating violence. In a joint statement, the United States and European Union called for an independent investigation into the growing number of politically motivated arrests and disappearances. But President Samia has remained defiant, asserting Tanzania’s sovereignty and dismissing foreign interference.

“We do not need outsiders to tell us how to run our country,” she said in a televised address, marking the 60th anniversary of the Tanzania Police Force. “We will investigate these incidents ourselves.”

The price of dissent

The crackdown on opposition parties is not only limited to arrests. In recent months, Tanzania has seen a sharp increase in politically motivated abductions and murders. One such case is the abduction and brutal killing of Ali Mohamed Kibao, a senior Chadema member. Witnesses described how Kibao was forcibly removed from a bus by armed men, only for his body to be found a day later, bearing the unmistakable signs of torture and acid burns.

“We are living in fear,” said Freeman Mbowe, Chadema’s leader. “If they can do this to someone like Kibao, what’s to stop them from coming for any one of us?”

The government’s response has been dismissive. Despite promises of investigations, no meaningful actions have been taken to hold the perpetrators accountable. Many suspect that the state security forces are behind the violence, though officials continue to deny any involvement.

A nation at the crossroads

As Tanzania approaches its 2025 general elections, the country finds itself at a dangerous crossroads. The political violence of the past year has raised fears that the country may be sliding back into authoritarianism. Samia, who once positioned herself as a reformer, now faces accusations of using the same repressive tactics as her predecessor.

“The optics are troubling. When opposition figures are targeted under the guise of legal procedures, it sends a message that political dissent will not be tolerated,” says Michael Bante, a political commentator based in Dar es Salaam It’s a significant setback for the progress we thought we were making under her leadership.”

While some may argue that these actions are necessary for stability, Bante believes it’s a dangerous precedent. “Tanzania’s democracy will only thrive if we can guarantee the space for all political voices to be heard–whether they align with the government or not.”

For many Tanzanians, the future seems grim. The escalating political violence has fostered an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty, leaving many feeling helpless. “These are troubling times,” remarked Juma Mwinyi, a street vendor who saw the abduction of Kibao. “If they can snatch someone in the middle of the day, what’s to stop them from targeting the rest of us?”

The International Response

Internationally, Tanzania’s political situation has drawn widespread condemnation. Foreign governments have called on Samia to reverse course and restore the democratic freedoms that were promised when she took office. But so far, those calls have gone unanswered.

“President Samia has a choice to make,” says Halima Mheta, a Tanzanian social justice activist. “She can be the leader who restores Tanzania’s democracy or the one who destroys it.”

As the nation waits for the upcoming elections, one thing is clear: the stakes have never been higher. For opposition leaders like John Mnyika and Tundu Lissu, the fight for democracy has never been more dangerous. But despite the risks, they remain determined.

“We will not be silenced,” Mnyika said defiantly. “Tanzania belongs to all of us, and we will fight for our right to be heard.”

For now, the future of Tanzania remains uncertain. But in the face of mounting repression, the country’s opposition leaders are determined to keep fighting, no matter the cost. As the political violence escalates and the government tightens its grip, the question remains: will Tanzania’s fragile democracy survive?

Source: allafrica.com

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Tanzania: Samia Hassan Honours Mzee Hiza, Diamond Win Big

PRESIDENT Samia Suluhu Hassan has recognised a veteran musician Mzee Steve Hiza with a 50m/- award during the Tanzania Music Awards (TMA), where Naseeb Abdul alias ‘Diamond Platnumz’ dominated the night with five accolades.

The colourful event took place in Dar es Salaam on Saturday evening and icing on the cake of the evening was Mzee Hiza receiving the newly introduced Lifetime Achievement Award for his enduring song, “Tanzania ndio nchi ya Furaha,” by Atomic Jazz Band which has resonated through generations.

Originally produced in 1967, the song has been a staple since the era of the country’s first President, Julius Nyerere and is frequently played at official events. It celebrates the joy and unity found in Tanzania while honouring Nyerere’s role in the country’s independence.

“I am grateful that this song is played at various events, both within and outside the country. Special thanks to President Samia for her generous support,” Hiza expressed.

He also mentioned that despite his age, he continues to compose and plans to release a new song dedicated to President Samia.

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The award was presented to Hiza by Minister for Culture, Arts and Sports Damas Ndumbaro, who praised the TMA organisers for introducing the Lifetime Achievement category.

Meanwhile, it was a triumphant night for Diamond Platnumz, who secured the titles of Best Male Artiste of the Year, Best Male Performer of the Year, Best Dance Music of the Year ( “Awii”), Best Video of the Year (also “Awii”) and Best Collaboration of the Year ( “Enjoy”).

Faustina Mfinanga, known as Nandy, was awarded Best Female Artiste of the Year, while Zuhura Othman or Zuchu and took home the titles of Best Female Music Performer and Best Female Bongo Flava Singer.

Veteran artist Ali Kiba won Best Bongo Flava Song of the Year for “Mahaba,” and Salmin Maengo (s2Kizzy), was recognised as Best Music Producer of the Year. Omary Mwanga or Mario, clinched both Best Songwriter of the Year and Best Male Bongo Flava Artiste of the Year. Dulla Makabila was awarded Best Singeli Artiste of the Year.

The hip-hop community shone through with Young Lunya winning Best Hip-hop Artiste of the Year and Best Hip-hop Song of the Year. Rajab Kahali, known as Harmonize, also excelled, winning Best Album of the Year for “Visit Bongo” and Best Song of the Year for “Single Again.”

The evening was a vibrant celebration of Tanzania’s musical talent and legacy.

Source: allafrica.com

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