Tanzania: Ride On Electric Train

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In: Tanzania Foreign Investment News

Dodoma — For the majority of Tanzanians, except for those who have travelled to Western or Asian nations, hardly have an experience to narrate the comfort of travelling onboard an electric train.

The majority have always taken the conventional train travel from region to region.

For Dar es Salaam residents, they use conventional trains to commute to work as well as to conduct other activities.

For them, the familiar sound of the wheels clattering over the tracks, the occasional jolts and the dense air filled with the aroma of old upholstery were part of their daily routine.

Travelling was somewhat cumbersome and took a long time for passengers to reach their destinations.

No wonder, when the government announced the commencement of a new electric train line service from Dar es Salaam to Morogoro on June 14, this year and extending services to Dodoma on July 25th this year, it became a huge buzz and crowd puller.

The train services were officially launched yesterday by President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

President Samia told thousands of Dodoma residents, who thronged Dodoma Station for the official launch of the electric train services, that the dream has finally come true.

She acknowledged the role of her predecessors- the third phase administration President late Benjamin Mkapa, who conceived the idea of coming up with the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) electric train services.

ALSO READ: Why SGR service pulls crowd

Dr Samia also saluted the role of the fourth phase President Dr Jakaya Kikwete, whose administration conducted a feasibility study of the project and the late fifth phase President Dr John Magufuli for fully embarking on the execution of the project.

Indeed, the government has made the right decision.

Just at its infant stage, the electric train has ferried close to 200,000 passengers, according to the Tanzania Railway Corporation (TRC) Director General Mr Masanja Kadogosa.

Of those served, a total of 160,000 are passengers who travelled from Dar es Salaam to Morogoro and vice-versa, pouring into the TRC coffers a sum of 2.4bn/-, while the Dar-Dom route has already collected a revenue of 744m/- from 28,000 passengers served so far.

Just yesterday, over 2,000 passengers, including a delegation of the president and other top government leaders, traversed to Dodoma from Dar es Salaam.

For the majority, it was both curious and exciting to experience the journey.

On a bright, crisp morning, I was part of the passengers and I arrived at the gleaming new station in Dar es Salaam initially baptised ‘Tanzanite,’ now Magufuli Station.

It is small but elegant both exterior and interior. As passengers stepped onto the platform, the contrast between this new technology and the traditional trains was striking.

Boarding was a breeze; the doors opened effortlessly and I was greeted by a spacious, well-lit interior.

The seats were comfortable, upholstered in soft, modern fabric. I chose a seat by the window and marvelled at how quiet everything was.

There was no clatter of wheels or hissing of steam, just a gentle hum of the electric engine working its magic. As the train pulled away, the ride was incredibly smooth.

I looked out the window and watched the cityscape transform into a blur of colours as the electric train gained momentum.

It quickly had three stopovers at mini stations in Soga, Ruvu and Ngerengere before the comfortable ride proceeded to Morogoro Region main Station now Christened Kikwete Station.

All the way, there were no sudden jolts or sways, just a steady, serene motion that felt almost like gliding through the line.

The electric train was sleek and modern, its shiny exterior reflecting the sunlight in brilliant streaks. Arriving at Dodoma Station, which was officially named after President Samia, was quite a nice experience.

The station itself was pristine, with clean lines and a contemporary design that made it feel almost futuristic. The train arrived at the station with barely a sound just a smooth, silent glide.

As the train pulled away, the ride was incredibly smooth.

I looked out the window and watched the cityscape transform into a blur of colours.

There were no sudden jolts or sways, just a steady, serene motion that felt almost like gliding through the city.

The onboard experience was impressive as well.

Digital screens provided real-time updates on the journey and the air conditioning kept the atmosphere comfortable

Source: allafrica.com

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Tanzania: SGR Train Services – Tanzania Takes Off

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In: Tanzania Foreign Investment News

President Samia Suluhu Hassan yesterday officially launched the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) electric train services, directing the Tanzania Railway Corporation to integrate it with other sectors to facilitate smooth transportation of goods and services.

At the inaugural event, the Head of State issued key directives to the Ministry of Transport to ensure Tanzanians benefit fully from the new train services.

“This is not just a railway; it is a lifeline that will bring our people closer, enhance trade and spur economic growth,” President Samia said.

ALSO READ: Why SGR service pulls crowd

The flagging-off event in Dar es Salaam yesterday saw President Samia boarding the electric train to Dodoma, with stops at Pugu, Ngerengere and Morogoro to greet citizens. The launch culminated in Dodoma, where she addressed the public.

President Samia urged the TRC board and management to ensure the timely completion of the ongoing railway construction sections, adhering to agreed standards and quality.

She directed the ministry to complete the construction and repair of cargo ships on various lakes before the project ends, facilitating commercial links with sea and lake ports, particularly Victoria and Tanganyika.

The integration of the railway with air transport is crucial. The railway should connect to Terminal III of Julius Nyerere International Airport, allowing goods to move directly onto the railway for easy onward transportation.

“The use of modern ICT systems, including railway security systems, ticketing and passenger tracking, should be prioritised to avoid reverting to manual systems,” she insisted.

The government expects the TRC to commence issuing dividends without requesting subsidies. Separate accounts and accountability systems for SGR and Meter Gauge Railway (MGR) should be maintained to ensure transparency, President Samia directed.

“The TRC must establish a new work culture, implement robust maintenance and safety systems and provide ongoing training for staff in infrastructure management, operations and marketing,” she urged.

President Samia emphasised that the success of the railway depends on the combined efforts of the central government, regions, districts and private sector stakeholders. “We must unite to ensure the railway benefits everyone.”

Support from stakeholders, she said including the African Development Bank (AfDB), has been secured for the remaining sections.

The President acknowledged her predecessors’ contributions to the SGR project, stating that it is now a reality, not just a dream.

President Samia further said in the first phase of the project, sections from Makutupora to Tabora (368 km), Tabora to Isaka (165 km) and Isaka to Mwanza (341 km) are being completed. The second phase involves the ongoing construction of sections from Tabora to Kigoma (506 km) and Uvinza to Musogati (365 km), connecting Tanzania with Burundi and the DRC.

“The SGR project aims to reduce travel time from Dar es Salaam to Dodoma by 60 per cent, from 9 hours to an average of 3 hours and 35 minutes, facilitating commercial and social activities between these major cities,” she said.

She added, “The SGR will reduce road congestion, minimise accidents, improve transportation efficiency and reduce environmental degradation. It will stimulate economic opportunities and boost regional trade within Tanzania and with neighbouring landlinked countries.”

According to her, the whole project, costing 23.3tril/-, requires protection and maintenance by citizens, especially those living along the route, to generate income. There are high expectations for revenue generation and economic growth.

President Samia further directed the Treasury Registrar to establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) with the TRC Board and management.

She said the railway must integrate with other sectors and cargo handling areas are being strengthened.

“Investment in SGR does not mean abandoning MGR, as the Tanzania Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) is being revived. The project also includes developing the Dar es Salaam port and dry ports ta Kwala, Ihumwa and Isaka, with plans to connect the railway to several areas,” she said.

President Samia also outlined plans to connect Tanzania’s SGR infrastructure with neighbouring Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

She highlighted the continent’s infrastructure challenges, noting that poor connectivity is impeding intra-Africa trade.

Dr Samia further said that her administration is prioritising the extension of the SGR network to bridge the gap between East and West Africa via Burundi and the DRC, noting the strategic importance of linking Tanzania’s ports to landlinked neighbouring countries, facilitating the movement of cargo and fuel.

Th Secretary-General of the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), Ambassador Dr Emmanuel Nchimbi, in his party and citizens’ greetings, said the President received the construction of this modern train, which had covered 722 kilometres and within his three years of leadership, she facilitated the construction of 1,522 kilometres, exceeding expectations.

“CCM members and Tanzanians, in general, are proud of your excellent leadership and that’s why citizens flock to see you, including the developments you are bringing, as witnessed at the Ngerengere meeting where more than 40 children were lifted and carried on their parents’ shoulders to see you,” Dr Nchimbi said.

On his part, the Morogoro Regional Commissioner, Adam Malima, said that the region has achieved great success since the SGR began its journeys from Dar es Salaam to Morogoro before extending to Dodoma.

Mr Malima said that many passengers were using the transport from Dar es Salaam to Morogoro and continuing their journeys by vehicles, as well as from other regions.

Source: allafrica.com

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Tanzania: New Era Begins

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In: Tanzania Foreign Investment News

Tanzania marked historic milestone in transportation sector with inauguration of Dar es Salaam-Dodoma Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) route by President Samia Suluhu Hassan, yesterday.

Much has been said about the social and economic impacts of this long-awaited route, which is poised to be a transformative milestone for Tanzania’s transportation sector.

This modern rail link is expected to revolutionise travel within Tanzania by drastically reducing travel times and stimulating economic activities across different regions.

Aligned with Tanzania’s Vision 2025 and CCM’s 2020-2025 Election Manifesto, the government aims to foster a modern, integrated, inclusive and competitive economy supported by industrial growth, economic services and enabling infrastructure.

The party’s manifesto emphasises the importance of strategic infrastructure such as the electric SGR in enabling citizens to carry out their activities efficiently and effectively.

The SGR is prominently featured in the National FiveYear Development Plan spanning from 2021/2022 to 2025/2026, highlighting that its completion will enhance both social and economic activities in the country.

Construction of the railway commenced in 2017 with two segments between Dar es Salaam and Makutupora in the Singida region.

The first segment covers a total of 300 km between Dar es Salaam and Morogoro, while the second segment spans 422 km between Morogoro and Makutupora, as outlined in the National FiveYear Development Plan.

Former President Jakaya Kikwete recently praised the initiative, commending President Samia for her dedication to completing the SGR project.

Dr Kikwete, who recently journeyed on the new electric train from Dar es Salaam to Morogoro, commended the comfort and efficiency of the service, highlighting its substantial reduction in travel time compared to road transportation.

“I am delighted to have experienced this new train service. It offers exceptional comfort. I intentionally opted for train travel to witness the progress we have achieved,” remarked Dr Kikwete.

The efficient Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) service is expected to catalyse regional development by improving connectivity between key economic centers.

ALSO READ: Samia launches historic Dar-Dom electric train services

The enhanced transport infrastructure is projected to attract investments, facilitate trade and provide a more dependable mode of transportation for both passengers and freight.

Moreover, the upgraded rail connectivity has the potential to boost tourism and bolster local economies along the railway corridor.

Dr Kikwete also emphasised the broader economic advantages of the SGR, citing its high capacity for transporting goods and its ability to further stimulate economic activities, particularly upon extension to Mwanza.

In separate interviews with the ‘Daily News’, economists and business analysts praised the electrified train route from Dar es Salaam to Dodoma, foreseeing a significant upsurge in business and production in major cities and nationwide.

They praised the government for its dedication to completing the project from Dar es Salaam to Dodoma, indicating that the successful completion of this phase bodes well for the timely completion of the remaining phases extending to other parts of the country.

Dr Sylvester Jotta, a business analyst and Lecturer at Saint Augustine University of Tanzania (SAUT), described the achievement as a dream realized and a source of pride for all Tanzanians.

In an exclusive interview with the ‘Daily News,’ Dr Jotta emphasised that turning dreams into reality requires determination, dedication, self-discipline and effort, all of which the government has demonstrated throughout this project.

Dr Jotta highlighted the socio-economic impacts of the modern electric SGR linking Dar es Salaam and Dodoma, noting that it signifies a significant milestone for Tanzania’s infrastructure on both a national and global scale.

By connecting the commercial centre of Dar es Salaam with the administrative capital of Dodoma, the SGR is expected to catalyse increased trade between the two cities, fostering rapid growth and development.

Dr Jotta anticipates that the electric train will expedite the expansion of both cities.

Economist Dr Isaac Safari highlighted that the introduction of the electrified train will drive competition in the transportation sector, impacting bus and aircraft owners who may choose to reduce fares to attract customers and gain market share.

Dr Safari emphasised that the electrified train will play a key role in diversifying the economies of Morogoro, Dar es Salaam and Dodoma, unlocking new investment opportunities such as real estate development, hotels and restaurants catering to travellers.

Additionally, he noted that the fast and affordable modern train will significantly reduce travel time for citizens commuting to and from Dodoma, allowing them to allocate saved hours towards economic productivity.

Dr George Mutalemwa, an expert in planning and development, urged the government to enhance infrastructure in rural areas to stimulate economic activities and foster overall development.

Mr Said Kaoneka, a resident of Kigamboni, foresees that the transportation system will simplify commuting for employees working in Dodoma while their families reside in Dar es Salaam.

For Tanzania, this presents a new driver for economic growth as many expect the project will massively transform the transportation sector by facilitating quicker transportation of goods and people, thereby fostering regional connectivity and economic integration.

Source: allafrica.com

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Tanzania: Online Transactions in Tanzania Safe, Says Governor Tutuba

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In: Tanzania Foreign Investment News

THE Bank of Tanzania (BoT) Governor, Mr Emmanuel Tutuba, assured Tanzanians yesterday that online monetary transactions made in the country are complete.

He has also called for increased multiple users in order to build a strong base for the projected national digital economy.

Mr Tutuba made the assurance when responding to reporters who wanted him to explain the importance of the Tanzania Digital Economy Strategic Framework (2024-2034) that was launched by President Samia Suluhu Hassan during the 15th meeting of the Tanzania National Business Council (TNBC) that met here on Monday.

“To us (BoT) as regulators of monetary transactions systems in Tanzania the framework is an important action taken by Tanzania because it will hasten safe movement of money from one place to another in order to facilitate economic growth,” he said, calling for more institutions and individuals to insist on online payments only.

He said Tanzania needs such transactions now in order to build a solid base of the proposed national digital economy.

The meeting made a formal appeal to all stakeholders to use of BoT online systems in making payments.

He assured stakeholders that online money payments in Tanzania are very safe because, he said, the BoT monitors money movement in Tanzania.

The bank, he explained, has a cyber security steering committee, that monitors online money movement and solves emerging challenges and risks.

The committee is chaired by the BoT Governor.

Further, he said, the bank has a consumer protection unit that ensures no money is lost on the way.

ALSO READ: New trade policy launched to boost growth

The BoT has developed an arrangement called the Tanzania Instant Payment System (TIPS) that is linked to all banks and telephone service providers.

The governor explained that now a person can transfer money from his bank account, through TIPS, pay a customer of a different bank or customer of a telephone service company. Customers can use TIPS to pay taxes and pay for other services.

“The money sent through TIPS will reach the intended receiver safely, timely and at a cost we consider very reasonable,” he said, adding that sending money through TIPS will be cheaper than money sent from one telephone provider to another.

The meeting was chaired by President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

Source: allafrica.com

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Tanzania Set for Natural Gas to Urea Major Production

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In: Tanzania Foreign Investment News

A 1.3-billion US dollar (about 3.5tri/-) natural gas to urea fertiliser manufacturing plant is set for establishment in the country, a facility which is expected to bring significant reforms in both agricultural and industrial sector, while creating hundreds of thousands of jobs.

This is after the Government through the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC), Tanzania Fertiliser Regulatory Authority (TFRA) and the Tanzania Investment Centre (TIC) signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the PT ESSA Industries Indonesia Tbk.

At the signing ceremony in Dar es Salaam, Minister in the President’s Office (Planning and Investment), Prof Kitila Mkumbo stated: “This project is very important. Its construction is set to take five years.”

The plant, to be established in Mtwara Region, is expected to begin operations in 2029, however, Prof Mkumbo challenged the investor to shorten the construction period.

“We need to increase productivity in agriculture and industries. Because apart from food crop, our agenda is to go to industry-driven economy, so you can’t speak of industries without speaking of agriculture because 65 per cent of raw materials used in industries come from farms, so there is no industrial revolution without agricultural revolution,” Prof Mkumbo argued.

He said the country’s agricultural master plan for the next over 10 years stresses on Tanzania to become self-sufficient in fertiliser production.

“So, this plant will help us in our industrial agenda and create more jobs,” he pointed out.

Indonesia Ambassador to Tanzania, Tri Yogo Jatmiko said both sides are committed to implementing the project on time.

ALSO READ: PURA set to announce new oil, gas exploration opportunities

“We need to implement this project following commitment from our two Presidents. I am very happy that we are all committed,” said Ambassador Jatmiko.

On his part, Mr Rahul Puri, Commissioner and Board Member of the ESSA Industries, noted that the company has a great backup from the Presidents of two countries-President Samia Suluhu Hassan and her Indonesian counterpart Joko Widodo.

“We intend to replicate this technology from Indonesia to Tanzania. Tanzania has immense natural gas. We learnt from our own example in Indonesia where there are six different plants since 1950s to make sure there is adequate urea in the country,” Mr Puri assured.

He said Tanzania has potential to produce urea for its own use and export to neighbouring countries, noting that 60 per cent will be used domestically while the remaining 40 per cent will be for export.

Tanzania normally brings fertilisers from outside and using its domestic route and transportation to transport it to land-linked countries.

Therefore, Tanzania will become the channel of the domestic fertiliser into these countries.

‘If we export to these neighbouring countries, we will also be able to bring in foreign currencies to the country, this is another importance of this project,” he said.

On his part, TPDC acting Director General, Mr Francis Mwakapalila explained that the initial requirement of natural gas to the envisaged factory is 70 million standard cubic feet.

“The reserve that we have in Tanzania is 54.57 trillion cubic standard feet. But, since we started using natural gas in Tanzania, we haven’t even consumed a single trillion cubic feet, so 70 million is just a small amount that we can manage to supply to the project.

“We are confidence that this MoU will take our partnership to a significant step and we are thinking that in the near future the government will take a next step of signing another agreement for supplying gas,” Mr Mwakapalila affirmed.

The Executive Director of the TFRA, Mr Joel Laurent, was of the view that the event was testimony that the Sixth Phase Government is committed to attracting investment in all sectors including agriculture and building up the economic diplomacy.

Mr Laurent informed that Tanzania is net importer of fertiliser, 87 per cent of fertiliser consumed in the country is imported.

“Given the strategic position of Tanzania and the available opportunities, including availability of raw materials and potential market, the country is positioned to be the hub of fertiliser supply in the region.,” he expressed optimism.

He said despite the increase of fertiliser in the country, their production was depending on imported raw materials, so the Urea manufacturing facility is timely in the fertilise sub sector.

“Availability of natural gas as raw materials in production of Urea is essential for agricultural production, enabling farmer to increase production,” he stated.

Commenting, TIC Executive Director Gilead Teri said the investment is expected to create over 400,000 jobs, thanking the President and Minister Prof Mkumbo for their endless efforts to attract investors in the country.

Source: allafrica.com

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Uganda selects Turkish firm for Malaba-Kampala SGR

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In: Tanzania Foreign Investment News

Construction of the long-awaited multi-billion Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from the Kenya-Uganda border at Malaba to Kampala is set to begin before the end of the year.

Mr Perez Wamburu, the project coordinator, said the Malaba-Kampala (eastern route) will now be constructed by M/s Yapi Merkezi, a Turkish contractor.

“We are at the tail end of the procurement of Yapi Merkezi. We have discussed the costs and we are at the bottom line of agreeing that we shall have the contract after it has been approved by the Attorney-General. We hope to start before the end of this year,” Mr Wamburu told the media during a briefing at Uganda Media Centre in Kampala. “We have done due diligence on this company and we have seen what they have done in Tanzania.”

The development comes nine years after the project was launched in the East African Community partner states of Uganda, Kenya, South Sudan, Rwanda and Tanzania. The project aims to reduce the high transport costs associated with delays in the transit of goods.

Mr Wamburu said they would soon submit the project to the Ministry of Finance for consideration.

Speaking at the same event, the Minister of State for ICT and National Guidance, Mr Godfrey Kabyanga, revealed how the first Chinese contractor failed, citing unfavourable conditions.

Uganda initially approached China Exim Bank to finance the construction of the Malaba-Kampala SGR line.

“Their conditions were not favourable to us but we’ve gone with the Turkish firm. They are more favourable and we are going to work with them,” Mr Kabyanga said.  “The development of the SGR is on and work will commence as soon as the financing arrangements are sorted so Ugandans should not be sceptical,” he added.

Kenya and Uganda set out to develop an SGR system from Mombasa to Kampala via Nairobi and Kisumu.

Mr Kabyanga said Cabinet met on Monday and received a report from the Ministry of Works on the progress of the SGR project in Uganda.

The other objectives of the approximately 1,500 kilometre railway project are to provide a modern and high-capacity railway network that will reduce transit times, facilitate the movement of goods and people and promote economic growth by providing seamless connectivity within Uganda and neighbouring countries.

In 2013, the leaders of Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, South Sudan and Rwanda broke ground on the construction of the SGR to connect the member states and boost trade in the region, which is home to more than 300 million people.

So far, only Kenya and Tanzania have made significant progress with the construction lines in their respective countries.

The Malaba-Kampala section to be built is 332 kilometres long.

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‘Chambua Kama Karanga’ hitmaker Saida Karoli regrets blowing fortune

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In: Tanzania Foreign Investment News
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By SINDA MATIKO

When the name Saida Karoli is mentioned, many East Africans recall the evergreen hit “Chambua Kama Karanga” from the early 2000s.

Saida burst onto the region’s airwaves in 2001 with the song and album, which she says reached a crescendo in 2003.

With it came the money – millions of Tanzanian shillings and dollars.

Even the famous American filmmaker Tyler Perry thought her song “Maria Salome” from the album was worthy of a soundtrack to his film Peeples.

Meeting Saida today, the 48-year-old musician is a shadow of her former self.

The mother of six is struggling with a musical comeback that has been marked by false starts.

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Speaking recently in her hometown of Bukoba, where she retreated after things went wrong a few years ago, she blamed naivety for her current state of affairs.

Read: Beyond Bongo Flava: Tanzania’s Neo-soul divas

The folk music legend’s journey to stardom began at the age of 17, when a scout plucked her out of Bukoba and took her to the big city of Dar es Salaam, the land of fortune.

“I should be wealthy, own mansions – maybe 10 or 20 – among many other multimillion-shilling investments. I was a huge star generating massive income but here I am, leading a quiet life,” Saida said.

She now blames her “downfall” on a lack of support and guidance as a young and naive artiste.

“If I had good guidance on investment, I would be doing better than I currently am,” she said sombrely. “I made a lot of money but I was young, and an orphan, and lacked an adviser to guide me on how to invest and better manage my finances. That’s my regret.”

Saida Karoli

Tanzanian Songbird Saida Karoli (in blue cap) joins Onagi Dancers in a jig on arrival at Kisumu International Airport on December 12, 2018. PHOTO | ONDARI OGEGA | NATION MEDIA GROUP

While she gives credit to her first manager for making her a star, Saida still finds a place to blame. But she also blames herself.

“I would love to have the kind of lifestyle Diamond Platnumz leads, but without being under any management. Every time I think of being under management, my blood pressure rises. I prefer being an independent artiste because I believe my previous management, to some level, exploited me and I’m to blame because I let them do that.

“I was young and naive, I didn’t know my worth so I let them decide my fate, including what to pay me. I never questioned. I didn’t understand the business and, worse still, I lacked someone to offer me the much-needed guidance on how to invest. I have paid a heavy price for my naivety,” she said.

The song/album title “Chambua Kama Karanga” became an instant hit, hot on the heels of the album’s lead single “Maria Salome”, which made Saida an overnight star.

“Maria Salome” tells a tragic love story through her enchanting vocals, garnished with traditional instrumentals of the Haya ethnic group from which she hails.

Although many of her records have been sung in local languages and Kiswahili, mostly to win over her fans in Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo, “Maria Salome” broke the mould to the extent that it caught the attention of acclaimed black American filmmaker Tyler Perry.

The song “Maria Salome” tells the tragic end of a woman who leaves her lover in search of a better life, only to be killed by her next catch. So profound was the record, and so perfect for a romance about a dysfunctional couple trying to stay together, that Perry paid to use it as one of the soundtracks for his film Peeples, starring Hollywood stars Craig Robinson and Kerry Washington. The film grossed $9.3 million at the box office.

It is not clear how much Saida made from its use as a soundtrack.

For the songbird, the album’s massive sales and packed stadiums when she performed in the region were a dream come true, and her passion for performing won her admirers across the region.

But the downward spiral came a little faster than her rise, and her comeback attempts were marked by false starts.

Saida was scouted by a manager when she was 17, but had already been performing in the villages of Bukoba. She was already a mother, having given birth to her first child at the age of 13.

“I didn’t have a good education and, like any village girl, I was naive but I was a good entertainer. He helped me build my brand and relocated me to Dar es Salaam, where I began working under him and signed a contract,” she said.

The vivacious singer said that while she was aware that she made a lot of money during her stardom days, she didn’t know exactly how much she earned because all decisions were left to the management that signed her.

“Whatever I was paid – any amount be it Tsh100,000 ($37) or Tsh500,000 ($185) – as revenue from my music, I was content. I did a lot of shows but I can’t tell you how much those shows paid because I never bothered to ask. Now I look back and all I have is regrets. I blame myself. I should have known better, I shouldn’t have assumed things,” Saida said.

Read: Tanzanian artist Diamond Platnumz splashes $190,000 for music video

Of her good old days, Saida picks 2003 as the peak of her career.

“We did a lot of shows in 2003. I remember being paid Tsh3 million ($1,111) from one show, then there was another paycheque of Tsh4 million ($1,481) from another gig. Many times, I was paid in millions from single shows during that season, which was a pay rise from the hundreds of thousands I was accustomed to being paid initially. It was a lot of money those days. I had never handled such kind of money before. There was a time we did a long tour of 10 shows and he gave me a car.”

Saida admits to misusing her fortune.

Over time, as her popularity grew, the musician says she became rebellious and had a falling out with her management.

“Life became unbearable in Dar es Salaam after the contract was terminated. I had lived in Dar for 10 years since relocating and so I moved back to the village with my children,” Saida said.

In an earlier interview with The Citizen, Saida said her world crumbled at her feet after years of popularity when her contract with FM Studios was terminated.

Many of her hits were produced and owned by FM Studios, which had paid her a retainer of Tsh300,000 ($111) a month. In the interview, she revealed that she once received a pay cheque of Tsh7.5 million ($2,777) from the sales of her debut album.

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Tanzania: SGR in Tanzania – New Voyage, New History

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In: Tanzania Foreign Investment News

DAR ES SALAAM: TODAY, the spotlight is on the official launch of the much-anticipated Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) electric train services between Dar es Salaam and Dodoma, marking a transformative milestone for Tanzania’s transportation sector.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who is gracing the launch, continues the legacy of her predecessors with unwavering dedication.

The new SGR electric train services signify a major leap forward in the country’s infrastructure, offering increased efficiency and connectivity.

This modern rail link is set to revolutionise travel within Tanzania by significantly cutting journey hours and boosting economic activities across various regions.

The SGR electric train service from Dar es Salaam to Dodoma is expected to reduce travel time to just three hours and 25 minutes.

Said Kaoneka, a Kigamboni resident, anticipates that the transport system will ease commuting for employees who work in Dodoma with their families living in Dar es Salaam.

This substantial improvement is likely to enhance economic activities by enabling faster movement of goods and people, thus promoting regional connectivity and economic integration.

The timing of the inauguration coincides with the commencement of the Nane Nane agricultural exhibitions, starting July 31 and running until August 9. This alignment highlights the SGR’s role in supporting major national events and fostering regional engagement.

Former President Jakaya Kikwete has lauded the initiative, commending President Samia for her commitment to completing the SGR project.

Dr Kikwete, who travelled on the new electric train from Dar es Salaam to Morogoro, praised the comfort and efficiency of the service, noting its significant reduction in travelling hours compared to road travel.

“I am very pleased to have travelled on this new train. It’s very comfortable. I deliberately chose to travel by train to see the progress we have made,” Dr Kikwete remarked.

The efficient SGR service is anticipated to stimulate regional development by enhancing connectivity between economic hubs.

Improved transport infrastructure is expected to attract investment, facilitate trade and provide a more reliable means of travel for passengers and freight alike. Additionally, the enhanced rail connectivity could spur tourism and support local economies along the rail corridor.

Dr Kikwete also highlighted the broader economic benefits of the SGR, noting its high capacity for transporting goods and its potential to further boost economic activities, especially when the railway extends to Mwanza.

“The SGR and electric train services offer great benefits due to the shorter travel time, which facilitates various social and economic activities,” he said.

ALSO READ: Bullish start as SGR electric train makes maiden journey to Dodoma

Carlos Mrema, a Dodoma city resident, believes the SGR will boost the economy of traders by saving time and facilitating cargo transport.

Eva Minde, a trader in Dodoma, expects the SGR electric train to make day trips to Dar es Salaam more manageable, allowing her to continue her business smoothly.

A local motorcycle rider sees the project as an opportunity to increase income and create job opportunities, including for cleaners.

The Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC) has reported smooth operations for the SGR service between Dar es Salaam and Morogoro since its commencement in June 2024.

The absence of operational challenges is a positive sign of the service’s reliability. TRC Director General Masanja Kadogosa emphasized the corporation’s commitment to maintaining high operational standards.

“We are proud of the smooth operations so far and we are dedicated to ensuring that the SGR service continues to meet the highest standards of efficiency and safety. Our focus remains on delivering a reliable service for all passengers,” Kadogosa said.

The TRC’s stringent passenger conditions, including restrictions on plastic bags and large unwrapped items, reflect a commitment to safety and operational efficiency.

Safety measures advised by the SGR contractor, Yapi Merkezi, such as using designated crossings and avoiding electrified rail areas, are crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring the railway infrastructure’s longevity.

The official launch of Tanzania’s electric train services is a major milestone in the country’s transportation infrastructure.

This development is poised to enhance connectivity, drive regional growth and set a precedent for future infrastructure projects, underscoring the importance of modern transportation solutions in advancing national progress.

Source: allafrica.com

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Tanzania: Indigenous Maasai Being Forcibly Relocated

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In: Tanzania Foreign Investment News

Des Moines — Consult Communities, Restore Social Services in Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Tanzania‘s government is forcibly relocating Indigenous Maasai residents from their homes and ancestral lands in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA), Human Rights Watch said in a report released today. Before further relocations are planned or carried out, the Tanzanian authorities should restore essential public services and consult affected communities to seek their free, prior, and informed consent.

The 86-page report, “It’s Like Killing Culture,” documents the Tanzanian government program that began in 2022 to relocate over 82,000 people from the NCA to Msomera village, about 600 kilometers away, to use their land for conservation and tourism purposes. Since 2021, the authorities have significantly reduced the availability and accessibility of essential public services, including schools and health centers. This downsizing of infrastructure and services, coupled with limiting access to cultural sites and grazing areas and a ban on growing crops, has made life increasingly difficult for residents, forcing many to relocate.

“The Maasai are being forcibly evicted under the guise of voluntary relocation,” said Juliana Nnoko, senior researcher on women and land at Human Rights Watch. “The Tanzanian government should halt these relocations and respect the rights of Indigenous people and rural communities by ensuring their participation in decisions affecting their rights and livelihoods through genuine consultation, access to information, and consent of Indigenous groups.”

The NCA, a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization World Heritage Site is managed by the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA), a government entity. The area has been home to the Maasai for generations.

The government has not sought the free, prior, and informed consent of the Indigenous Maasai residents in the area about the government’s resettlement plan, Human Rights Watch found. The residents did not have access to information on matters related to the relocation process, compensation, what conditions to expect in Msomera, and which villagers had registered for relocation. By disregarding its obligations, the government raises serious concerns about the prospects for accountability, justice, and remedies required under international, regional, and national law.

Human Rights Watch interviewed nearly 100 people between August 2022 and December 2023, including current residents in the conservation area, former residents now in Msomera village, and Msomera residents who had already been living there. They described violations of their rights to land, education, health, and compensation and attacks on critics of the relocation process.

“No [government] leader has come to listen to the citizens of Ngorongoro to know what their problems are,” said a village council member in the NCA. The lack of consultation has prevented meaningful engagement and exacerbated the harm to residents in both locales.

The authorities have instituted new rules that restrict movement in and out of the conservation area. Since 2022, the NCAA security personnel have arbitrarily required residents to show various types of identification to verify their place of residence and permit entry, even if that resident is known to the guard. Guards deny residents entry or force them to pay a relatively costly tourist fee to enter if they do not have the specific type of identification demanded.

The authorities have denied entry to nongovernmental organizations or followed and monitored their representatives who have been permitted access. Authorities have also imposed increasingly exorbitant entry fees for local groups: an annual fee in 2022, a vehicle fee per entry in 2023, and a per person and per vehicle fee for each entry in 2024.

These actions make it difficult for local groups to continue supporting the Maasai communities in the area and make it increasingly hard for residents to get information and other support.

Residents told Human Rights Watch that the relationship between conservation authority’s rangers, who guard entry points and other areas in the NCA, and community members has deteriorated dramatically since the government began the relocation program. Rangers have attacked, beaten, and harassed residents if they do not comply with the government’s rules. Human Rights Watch documented 13 incidents of beatings by rangers between September 2022 and July 2023.

The government’s relocation and resettlement processes have reinforced gender inequality, Human Rights Watch said. The head of the household, usually a man, registers the family for relocation. During the relocation, the government destroys the family’s homestead, leaving any relatives, including wives, who opted to stay behind, homeless and dependent on extended family. Human Rights Watch identified several women who were not involved in registering, refused to move with their husbands, and were left homeless.

Failure to consult has resulted in the government providing a single three-room house for each resettled Maasai head of household, which does not reflect the needs or complexities of their large, polygamous, multi-generational, and multi-household families.

The authorities have also displaced Msomera residents to resettle families relocated from the conservation area, labelling Msomera resident as “trespassers” and “squatters” and threatening them with arrest and eviction if they protest or talk to the media.

Those who speak out against the relocation, including NCA and Msomera residents and human rights defenders, have faced threats and intimidation from rangers and security forces, creating a climate of fear. “You’re not allowed to say anything,” one Msomera resident said, adding that people have “fear in their hearts.”

The Tanzanian government’s relocation process violates rights protected by national, regional, and international law and standards, including the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People. The forced evictions constitute gross violations of a range of internationally recognized human rights, including to adequate housing, food, water, health, education, work, security of the person, freedom from cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment, and freedom of movement.

“The Tanzanian government’s need to respect the rights of Indigenous Maasai communities is an ethical obligation as well as a legal one,” Nnoko said. “The government should urgently reconsider its approach to ensure the survival, well-being, and dignity of the Maasai people, which this relocation process is putting at grave risk.”

Additional Quotes:

A village chairperson in the conservation area said:

The government is starting to make us not function at all. They try to weaken us in all means of life. To despair, not to fight, give up and move out. They are trying to make sure that pastoralism comes to an end. We never chase the wild animals to move out. We are very good conservators; we don’t hate the wildlife.

That was not a consultation because [prime minister] just spoke and went. There was nothing like taking people’s views and concerns…. The prime minister visited the area; many people went, but they were refused [permission] to enter. He just selected a few people–ward and village officers–and he just said what he thought and went away.

We do not know anything about Msomera. What we have heard is that people have lost their livestock. How do we make sure the government guarantees that in two to five years if resettled residents lose all their livestock, they will get it replaced, receive compensation, or support? How can the community make sure the government provides these assurances if we have no information?

I can’t compare Endulen [Hospital] now to before. Before, the government provided support plus paid for some hospital staff. Before, Endulen had the mother and childcare services with enough medicines. Now, the government has cut off all support; they have taken their doctors back into government hospitals.

Every resident is feeling the pain. If you fall sick you think of the huge cost you will incur to search for health services. The poorer people are much more vulnerable because they don’t have money to travel far, and the local dispensaries do not have medicines. You can sell livestock and access these services. The other option is to use local traditional herbs or pray to god for a miracle.

He was just walking, and they just punished him. They made him kneel – kichura [toad style], and they punished him using a stick. He got injuries on his legs. We don’t have anywhere to report. You go to the same police who have beaten the guy, so you can’t get any aid. There are many cases like this. Rangers are like people who are above the law.

I was born here. My grandfather was born here…. We are a family of about 72 with grandparents, wives, children [today]. There is not enough land to feed everyone in our family. Now, we depend solely on our cows, which we keep far away from here because there is no place to pasture.

Source: allafrica.com

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