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DODOMA: As the Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) has forecasted below-average short seasonal rains “Vuli” in many parts of the country, the government has announced measures to ensure food security.

Addressing Parliament in Dodoma on Friday, Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa stated that the government plans to continue providing subsidies for quality, drought-resistant seeds to local farmers as one of the measures to mitigate the challenge.

Based on TMA’s latest report, the Prime Minister also advised farmers to take all necessary precautions by planting crops that mature in a short period to minimize potential losses.

ALSO READ: TMA: Brace for another five-day heavy rains

“The National Food Reserve Agency (NFRA) will continue purchasing and storing food crops so that these can be used to address food shortages in areas that may face scarcity,” he stated.

The TMA report indicates that Vuli rains will be below average in various regions, including Manyara, Geita, Simiyu, Kagera, Mwanza, Mara, northern Kigoma, Morogoro, Arusha, and Kilimanjaro. These areas are expected to experience prolonged dry spells and uneven rainfall distribution.

Source: allafrica.com

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SONGWE — The Police Force in Songwe Region has arrested a total of 302 suspects in connection with various offenses, including cyber-related crimes.

Issuing the August report, Acting Songwe Regional Police Commander, ACP Gallus Hyera, stated that other offenses committed by the suspects included gender-based violence, burglary, theft, murder, drug-related offenses, and traffic law violations.

The report further revealed that 12 individuals have been convicted and sentenced to prison. Among them, five were convicted of theft, while others faced charges of rape, economic sabotage, and illegal possession of firearms.

Additionally, the report shows that 16 suspects were arrested for drug-related crimes, including the possession of marijuana and illicit homemade alcohol, locally known as “gongo.”

These arrests are part of a broader crackdown aimed at combating the growing drug problem in the country.

The police noted that 3,471 traffic offenses were recorded during the same period. According to the acting regional police chief, these offenses resulted in deaths and injuries.

In response to the crime rates, the police emphasized their continued efforts to enhance public safety through educational outreach programs aimed at encouraging community participation in maintaining law and order.

“These initiatives have significantly improved the effectiveness of community policing in the region,” the statement insisted.

Source: allafrica.com

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DODOMA — TANZANIA’S avocado farmers are poised for a significant economic boost as China has authorised local companies to export avocados directly to its market worth slightly over 150 million US dollars (about 408.7bn/-).

The Ministry of Agriculture has officially informed the Tanzania Horticultural Association (TAHA) that China has been accepting avocados produced in Tanzania since August 14, 2024.

Dr Jacqueline Mkindi, CEO of TAHA, mentioned that the effort to access the Chinese market began in 2018 when the association recognised its potential.

They wrote a letter to the Government the Ministry of Agriculture, urging them to use official and diplomatic channels to open up the market.

“We are grateful to the Ministry for their leadership and efforts.

Their proactive response and collaboration were crucial in this process.

Their commitment to helping us enter this market is commendable,” said Dr Mkindi.

She also thanked the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) for their valuable participation, stating that it significantly contributed to the initiatives and helped the country achieve this milestone.

Agriculture Minister, Mr Hussein Bashe, informed TAHA members that the government was finalising the official procedures for China to open its market to Tanzanian-grown avocados.

China’s increasing demand for avocados, driven by a health-conscious middle class, has made the fruit a popular choice in the country’s imported fruit market.

Despite being the third-largest avocado producer in Africa, Tanzanian farmers have struggled to access export markets due to the lack of a sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) agreement.

With a population of over 1.4 billion, China, currently the 10th largest avocado importer globally, is expected to become Tanzania’s primary market for avocados.

This is a shift from traditional export markets in Europe and the Middle East.

During President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s state visit to Beijing, Tanzania and China signed a protocol on sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) requirements, allowing Tanzanian avocados to enter China’s vast market.

Dr Mkindi expressed her excitement, stating that China’s decision would benefit local farmers and strengthen trade relations between the two nations.

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She praised President Samia for her diplomatic efforts that led to the opening of the lucrative Chinese market after six years of TAHA’s efforts.

According to Dr Mkindi, the President’s initiative aligns with Tanzania’s national strategy to increase horticultural export value to $2 billion annually by 2030, up from the current 420 million US dollars.

This could also create employment opportunities for youth and women along the value chain. Tanzania’s avocado industry is expected to experience sub stantial growth between 2023 and 2033.

In 2023, avocado exports from Tanzania totaled 26,826.3 metric tonnes, generating revenue of approximately 73 million US Projections from the International Trade Centre (ITC) suggest that by 2033, production could reach 393,669 metric tonnes, with exports projected to reach 236,201.5 metric tonnes, potentially generating revenues of 449 million US dollars.

“This significant increase in production and exports will lead to a substantial boost in revenue and economic opportunities,” Dr Mkindi explained.

Local farmers are likely to see increased incomes, enabling them to invest in advanced farming techniques and technologies to reduce post-harvest losses.

Source: allafrica.com

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DAR ES SALAAM — A COHORT of 39 participants from Tanzania, Kenya, Namibia and Uganda has been officially inducted into the IBA officiating family, following their successful completion of the International Boxing Association (IBA) 1-Star Referee and Judges course.

The week-long course, hosted by the Boxing Federation of Tanzania (BFT) at the Dar es Salaam Police Academy in early August, marks a significant milestone in their officiating careers.

The programme was overseen by Sadie Duffy, Chairperson of the IBA Referees and Judges Committee from Ireland and Godavarisingh Rajcoomar, Chairperson of the African Boxing Confederation (AFBC) Referees and Judges Committee.

Their expertise and guidance were pivotal in the training’s success.

Lukelo Willilo, president of the BFT, expressed optimism about the impact of the course on Tanzanian boxing.

“This training not only equips our officials with new skills but also establishes a strong foundation for the sustainable development of boxing in Tanzania,” Willilo stated.

He highlighted that the investment in referees and judges is crucial for enhancing Tanzania’s international standing in the sport.

“By collaborating with the IBA, we ensure that our referees and judges are gaining valuable insights and skills that will open doors for them on the global stage.

We expect them to bring this expertise to international competitions, contributing to professional and accurate officiating,” he noted.

The course is part of a broader initiative, with 22 IBA educational programmes conducted this year, including courses for referees, judges, coaches and technical officials.

Looking ahead, the next training events will include online 1-Star Coach es courses for Portugal and Brazil, a Champion’s Night course for referees and judges and a session for current ITOs to become IBA Technical Delegates in Assisi from September 5-8.

Source: allafrica.com

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DAR ES SALAAM — THE Network Against Sexual Corruption in Tanzania has celebrated a significant victory following the National Assembly’s decision to reject a controversial amendment to the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Act.

The proposed amendment sought to eliminate Section 25, which addresses sexual corruption, and replace it with a provision that would have criminalised victims.

Instead, the Assembly upheld Section 25 and imposed stricter penalties, increasing prison sentences from three to ten years and doubling fines from 5m/- to 10m/-.

The Network, which comprises over 200 organisations nationwide, hailed this outcome as a major win for justice, particularly for women and vulnerable groups who are frequently targeted by sexual corruption.

Professor Penina Mlama, Chairperson of the Network, commended the National Assembly’s decision, noting its alignment with the Network’s advocacy efforts. She praised organisations like the Women’s Judges Association and individuals such as Retired Judge Eusebia Munuo for their crucial role in protecting the law.

ALSO READ: Temeke Anti-Corruption Bureau uncovers Major Irregularities in development projects

“This victory demonstrates the power of collective action against oppressive systems,” said Prof Mlama.

“It shows that when we unite and advocate for justice, we can protect the vulnerable and hold those in power accountable. Our fight against sexual corruption must continue across all sectors of society.” Sexual corruption, as defined by Section 25, involves demanding sexual favours in exchange for rights, privileges, or opportunities. Unlike financial bribery, it exploits the vulnerable, often leaving victims dehumanised and deprived of opportunities.

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The Network’s statement emphasised the prevalence of sexual corruption in Tanzania, particularly affecting women in education, healthcare and domestic work. Findings from the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB) reveal alarming rates of sexual corruption across various sectors.

The Network also highlighted the broader economic and societal impacts of sexual corruption, which undermines human dignity, disrupts institutional integrity and fosters a culture of exploitation. Increased public education has led to greater awareness and a growing rejection of such practices, with more victims coming forward.

In light of the National Assembly’s decision, the Network urged continued vigilance in enforcing the law and called on Tanzanians to maintain pressure on authorities to combat all forms of sexual corruption.

“The rejection of the proposed amendment is just one step,” Prof Mlama said.

“We must ensure that Section 25 is effectively enforced, protecting victims and holding offenders accountable.” The Network also expressed gratitude to international stakeholders, the media and the Tanzanian public for their support in rejecting the amendment, affirming the country’s commitment to justice and human dignity.

Source: allafrica.com

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By MOSES K. GAHIGI

A wide range of African vegetable varieties are threatened with extinction, while others have already disappeared as climate change, urbanisation and poor eating habits take their toll.

Speaking at the Africa Food Systems Forum (AFSF) in Kigali this week, experts said many indigenous African vegetable species are already extinct and others will soon disappear if nothing is done.

“The most endangered species are the indigenous African vegetables, due to many historical events, many of the indigenous vegetable varieties have been replaced by exotic breeds, and the challenge now is where to find these materials,” said Dr Sognigbe N’Danikou, a scientist and expert on the conservation and use of traditional vegetables at the World Vegetable Centre, a non-profit involved in vegetable research.

He said, for instance, that a certain type of okra (Abelmoschus manihot), which was widely consumed in West Africa and traditionally used for medicine, is now very difficult to find.

Others, like black night shade and amaranth, are critically endangered, while a host of other edible wild weeds that were eaten in the past have disappeared. Most of these herbs are rich in minerals and vitamins that are vital to local diets.

In the last 100 years, up to 75 percent of the global diversity of African vegetables has been lost, he argued.

A global problem

But the problem is global. The National Geographic recently reported that that between 1903 and 1983, seed varieties shrank by about 93 percent, and 30 years later, the fruits and vegetables from those seeds diminished even more drastically.

For instance, 544 varieties of cabbage shrank to just 28, while 463 kinds of radishes were reduced to 27.

In Africa, urbanisation, climate change and poor farming methods have been some of the biggest threats.

When bushes are cleared to construct roads and expand cities, many vegetable varieties are destroyed never to be seen again, as many of their seeds are not even preserved.

In eSwatini, one of the countries with the highest rate of vegetable extinction, the indiscriminate use of herbicides has been a major cause of species destruction.

Meanwhile floods, landslides and other natural disasters, that come as a result of climate change, have led to the disappearance of some vegetable varieties.

Yet governments and private sector have not done enough to invest in sufficient seed banks and research to protect these vegetables.

Rescue project

At the AFS Forum, the World Vegetable Centre launched the Vegetable Biodiversity Rescue Plan, which will act as a roadmap to address the threats stalking the vegetable species in order to reverse their disappearance.

“The knowledge around these species has also been lost in many traditional communities.

“Africa is also home to many vegetable species whose wild relatives are endangered and disappearing, largely due to urbanisation and climate change. For example, the wild relatives of cowpeas, which is originally domesticated in Africa have disappeared,” said Mr Sognigbe.

He noted that the rescue project will, among other things, seek to collect seeds of these wild varieties and conserve them so that they can be bred in the future.

Read: Farmers in western Kenya show how Africa can feed itself

Up to $12.5 million is required to implement the 10-year rescue plan, and a pilot was carried out with support of the Taiwan Africa Vegetable Initiative from 2021 to 2024, to conserve and use African vegetable biodiversity to address malnutrition.

As part of the pilot project, over 17,000 vegetable varieties have been collected in Benin, Eswatini, Madagascar and Tanzania for preservation.

So far, achievements made through the pilot phase include two newly constructed and three upgraded African genebanks, in addition to training some 174 African genebank staff.

“This is a matter of urgency. Policy makers, scientists and other stakeholders need to join hands in rescuing these endangered vegetable varieties. We are glad private sector entities like Equity Bank has come on board to support these efforts,” said Colleta Ndunguru, the World Vegetable Centre programme manager for Tanzania.

“We need to make room to promote and support farmer-managed seed systems.”

Experts say there is a need to invest in conservation infrastructure at the national level to ensure there are functioning gene banks that can preserve and replicate what farmers have, so that varieties can be preserved before they are lost.

“We need to promote inclusion of these vegetables in our diets by adopting policies that facilitate and encourage farmers to grow these materials and also consumers to integrate these in their diets,” she said.

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As online fraud and technological challenges threaten financial systems, stakeholders across East Africa are gearing up for a major collaborative effort.

The Tanzania Fintech Association (TAFINA) is leading the charge with the East African Fintech Investment Forum (EAIF) 2024, an event set to transform the region’s fintech landscape.

The two-day forum, beginning next Thursday in Dar es Salaam, will unite investors, regulators and financial institutions from across East Africa.

The forum aims to spark critical discussions and idea-sharing on combating online fraud and exploring the practical applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in addressing these issues. TAFINA Vice Chairperson Reuben Mwatosya highlighted the need for collective problem-solving in facing technological challenges.

“There are various technological issues that require collaboration and idea exchange from different institutions. For instance, tackling the misuse of AI in fraud needs a unified approach to develop effective solutions,” Mr Mwatosya said.

This year’s forum theme, “Invest & Partner: Leave No One Behind,” reflects the commitment to promoting inclusive growth and forging meaningful partnerships within the rapidly evolving fintech sector of East Africa. Shadrack Kamenya, Secretary General of TAFINA, expressed excitement about the event.

“We are thrilled to host this year’s East African Fintech Investment Forum. Our program is designed to address both the unique challenges and opportunities in the fintech landscape. We look forward to bringing together industry leaders, innovators and investors for what promises to be an impactful and engaging event.” Through initiatives like the EAIF, TAFINA aims to create an environment that fosters innovation, investment and sustainable economic development. The upcoming forum is poised to be a milestone event, advancing the future of fintech in East Africa.

Source: allafrica.com

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