Jumamosi tarhe 26 May, "Ka"-kikundi kinachojiita "Jumuia ya Uamsho na Mihadhara ya Kiislam" kiliamua kuingia mitaani kufanya maandamano (hiyo juzi na pia jana asubuhi) ya kushinikiza kura ya maoni kabla ya kuanza kwa mchakato wa katiba mpya. Katika kufanya hivyo waandamanaji hao waliishia kuchoma makanisa na magari na kuharibu mali za watu! Kwa ufupi waliishia kuvunja amani na utulivu. Kikundi hiki kinajulikana kama kinadai muungano kati ya Zanzibar na Tanzania bara uvunjwe ili wao "waachiwe Zanzibar yao" na wawe huru kuifanya kuwa nchi ya kiislam yenye kuongoza katika misingi na sheria za dini hiyo. Potelea mbali wazanzibar wenye dini nyingine - hilo wao hawaoni kama issue! SIPINGI kabisa uhalali wa watu kutoa maoni yao, na wala sipingi uhalali wa watu kufuata taratibu tulizojiwekea na kufanya maandamano ya amani ili kuweka wazi mawazo, maoni au hata malalamko yao! Heck hata sipingi kwa wazanzibar kutaka kuvunja muungano... kama hayo ni maoni ya wazanzibar walio wengi - what can we wa Tanzania bara do to stop them? - nothing! Lakini pamoja na kuyasema hayo; Sina budi kulaani kwa nguvu zote kilichotokea Zanzibar over the weekend! Ukweli ni kwamba tabia hii ya kuingia mitaani na kuanza kuharibu nyumba za ibada nam ali za raia wasio na hatia - ni tabia ya kihuni na yenye kudhihirisha kufilisika kimawazo na kuishiwa nguvu ya hoja. HATA siku moja matumizi ya nguvu na uvurugaji wa amani hauwezi; na wala hautakaa ulete mabadiliko ya kweli! Wengi wa wanao support matumizi ya nguvu wanaweza kubisha - na hata kuhalalisha matumizi ya vurugu kama njia mbadala iwapo "njia zote nyingine zimekwama". Kwa bahati mbaya, sijaweza kukutana (and I am very open kuingia kwenye majadiliano na mtu kama huyo) - sijaona yeyote ambaye ameweza kunifahamisha kuwa njia ambazo zimeshatumika ni a, b, c, d na zimeshindikana! Ndugu zetu hawa, hawana hoja yenye nguvu, hawana uwezo wa kujenga hoja, hawana uwezo wa kuwakilisha mawazo yao na kuelimisha jamii kile wanachokisimamia, na wala hawana uwezo wa kutetea kile wanachosimamia! Wanachofanya ni kuwajaza watu chuki, kwa sababu ambazo hazina mshiko - na wao wanajua wazi kabisa kuwa hoja zao hazina mshiko - si wa kielimu, si wakijamii si wakisiasa, na si wakidini - mshiko "mayolo"/ none / zuch!!! wanalijua hilo; lakini bado tu wanang'ang'ania kuendelea kuanzisha na kuchochea vurugu. Hata kama nia yao ni kufanyika kwa hiyo kura ya maoni, wanajua kuna njia na taratibu ambazo zipo wazi! Na iwapo mtu huridhiki na taratibu hizo kuna ruksa na njia za kuzi-challenge. Ajabu sana kusikia mtu anadai kura ya maoni kwa nguvu... Mbona zoezi kama hilo si geni Zanzibar? Thankfully the Field Force Unit - FFU were released to roam the streets, waandamanajo 30 kukamatwa and the rest run to their homes☺. Wakati amani inaonekana kurejea katika mitaa ya "mji mkongwe" Zanzibar, ukweli nashindwa kujizuia ku ainisha my wish... Natamani sana kama serikali ya mapinduzi inge waashushia hawa jamaa (na wote wenye hii akili za kipuuzi kama hizi hile peace seems to have been restored, I just wish they find whoever is behind this stupid stunt and make a lesson out of them. Nakutakia siku njema

Kiswahili Press Is back - 29 March 2011

Kiswahili Press Summaries

29 March 2011

2015 Presidency

Billions set aside to cleanse Lowassa

Former Prime Minister who had to resign following his allegedly involvement in the controversial Richmond scam, Edward Lowassa, is said to have launched a Sh.  8 billion project to cleanse him politically. Impeccable sources told this paper that a concerted project to cleanse him is one among Lowassa’s various strategies to make sure that he succeeds current president, Jakaya Kikwete. It has been learnt that the money will be funded by Lowassa’s close friend and co- injured part in the Richmond scam, Rostam Aziz. When contacted, Lowassa replied: “You should ask that stupid fellow who told you about this. I don’t want to hear any stupid things.” On his part either, Rostam, who is also Igunga MP (CCM) repied to this paper’s inquiries in a short message as saying: “I don’t think Lowassa needs any plan to cleanse him, he is already clean…But I have set aside some funds to make sure that you (MwanaHalisi newspaper) are able to purchase your own printing machinery so that the paper can come out with ease.” (MwanaHalisi)

UN to support development in Tanzania

The United Nations in Tanzania yesterday announced that in June it will launch a $773 million (Sh. 1.08 trillion) four-year development assistance plan for the country. Within the package, democratic governance improvement will have an allocation of about 9 percent. UN Resident Coordinator in Tanzania, Alberic Kacou, yesterday told the Editors’ Forum in Dar es Salaam that protection of refugees will have an allocation of 24 percent, health 17 per cent, environment and climate change adaptation 14 per cent, education 13 per cent. Economic growth will be given 9 per cent, social protection 4 per cent, HIV/Aids 5 per cent, water and sanitation together with health 3 per cent, while emergencies scoop 2 per cent. “The UNDAP responds to the UN mandate and mission in Tanzania - in ensuring inclusiveness of all state and non-state actors in the development of the country,” said Kacou. (Majira, Mtanzania, Mwananchi, Nipashe, Habari Leo)

Parliament

Committee blocks government plan to sale General Tyres Company

Parliamentary Committee on Public Organisations’ Accounts (POAC) has formed a four-man team to investigate on the controversy surrounding closure of the General Tyres East African Limited. Chairman of the Committee, Zitto Kabwe (Chedema) said in Dar es Salaam yesterday that the team will be led by Magomeni legislator Mohamed Chomboh. “The team will find out how the Sh. 10 billion loan, which General Tyre acquired in 2005 from the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), was used. We were surprised to see that the company wounded its activities only two years after securing the loan,” he said adding: “We have also discovered that the government wants to declare the company bankrupt…We  will try to establish if at all there are sufficient reasons to warrant that.” (Majira, Raia Mwema)

Snippets:

1.      Parliament Committee orders salary cut for Ukerewe District officials (Tanzania Daima)

2.     Chadema leaves CCM at loggerheads (Raia Mwema)

3.     The elderly in Babati camp survive on one meal a day (Raia Mwema)

4.     CCM now plan to relieve Kikwete of party chairmanship (Tanzania Daima)

5.     Drivers bribe officials to escape check-points in Loliondo (Mtanzania)

KIswahili Press Summaries: 30 May, 2010

Collected by: British High Commission, Dar es Salaam http://ukintanzania.fco.gov.uk/en

Disclaimer: These Summaries are collected and distributed for information only. Any views or opinions expressed in this summaries do not necessarily reflect the FCO's policy.

Governance

Bigwigs haunted by PCCB probe

Some CCM leaders are trying to find out if they are on the black list of the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB). This is after PCCB chief, Dr Edwards Hosea warned that he has documented the gifts aspiring MPs distribute in constituencies, hoping to get nominated. Hosea said he is soon going to summon and question them. Some incumbents said this might stop them from fulfilling their ‘promises’ of development aid to the constituencies. But Hosea said he knows the difference, adding that PCCB will question why they distribute things like bicycles, khangas, t-shirts and money. PCCB has been entrusted with the task of enforcing the Election Expenses Act 2010. When John Cheyo (Bariadi, UDP) was contacted for comment, he snapped: “I have nothing to say to you. So leave me alone.” Similar reaction came from MP for Peramiho (CCM) Jenifer Mhagama. (Tanzania Daima, Mtanzania)

PCCB probing Mwakyusa, Kilasi

Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB) said it is investigating Health Minister, Prof. David Mwakyusa and MP for Mbarali (CCM), Esterina Kilasi who reportedly poured money and bicycles into their constituencies. Mwakyusa, MP for Rungwe West (CCM), is said to have given Sh 500,000 in 19 wards between March and April this year. He claims it was to ‘strengthen’ the party, but people have been complaining. As for Kilasi, he gave Sh 100,000 and bicycle to each of the 11 party branch leaders in March this year. The two MPs told this paper separately that they gave the money because they were ‘asked for help’ and because they were ‘implementing’ CCM election manifesto. (Nipashe)

Unions: TUCTA strike imminent

While 21 days given to the government by the Trade Union Congress (TUCTA) to declare its stand on workers’ demands have expired, nothing has been said so far. And so there is a possibility that TUCTA might go back to its strike action that was suspended early this month to give more time to government. Acting Secretary General of TUCTA, Nicholas Mgaya told this paper that until yesterday there was no government notice published in the official gazette. “The 21 days are over and so next week we are going to meet and consider as to what action to take,” Mgaya said. Minister of State (Public Service Management), Ms Hawa Ghasia could not be contacted as her phone was switched off. (Nipashe)

Elections : Bribery during CUF nomination

A tug-of-war is going within CUF members in Pemba who are seeking party nomination for October elections. In the ensuing fight an incumbent MP for Chake Chake, Ms Fatma Maghimbi, has been defeated in the preferential poll. On the other hand, leader of the opposition, Hamad Rashid has been nominated. The polls have not been without problems. Thus, it is reported that six out of seven contenders in Chake Chake have refused to concede defeat and sign the result sheet. Official result shows Mussa Haji won while Ms Maghimbi was relegated to third place. She told this paper that the poll was marred by irregularities and so she and her colleagues refused to concede defeat. “One contender was going round with a ‘bank’ in his briefcase, dishing out money to voters. We have filed an appeal against the result,” she lamented. When contacted, the winner challenged: “How could I bribe 978 members who voted for me? Why didn’t they trap me? In 2005 Ms Maghimbi defeated me and I conceded. That is what democracy is all about.” Meanwhile, preferential polls for CUF aspirants are going on in Pemba.  (Mwananchi)

Snippets

1      PCCB chief says he will continue probing lawmakers (Mwananchi)

2      Teacher marries student in presence of DC (Tanzania Daima, Habari Leo)

3      Five immigration officers face bribery charges (Tanzania Daima, Majira)

4      Lawyers threaten to sue Tendwa over registration of CCJ (Tanzania Daima, Majira, Habari Leo)

5      50 Ethiopians feared drowned near Tanga (Majira, Nipashe, Mwananchi)

6      CCM members stop rally of MP in Ludewa (Mtanzania, Nipashe)

7      Speaker Sitta says he is to continue fighting graft (Mwananchi)

8      Many UVCCM leaders have cheated over their age (Mwananchi)

9      Police condemn mobs raiding police stations (Mwananchi)

10            Over 820,000 tourists expected to bring in $ 1.5 million (Habari Leo)   

KIswahili Press Summaries: 28 May, 2010

Collected by: British High Commission, Dar es Salaam http://ukintanzania.fco.gov.uk/en

Disclaimer: These Summaries are collected and distributed for information only. Any views or opinions expressed in this summaries do not necessarily reflect the FCO's policy.

GOVERNANCE: First Lady on poor medical service

First lady, Mrs Salma Kikwete narrate how she was ignored by nurses when giving birth to her first baby, by being made to sleep on the floor while waiting for medical attention. She said at the time her husband was the Foreign Minister yet she posed as an ordinary citizen and went to a public hospital which she didn’t name. Mrs Kikwete was talking to Lushoto residents yesterday when she advised medical professionals to be humane and polite towards their patients, especially pregnant women. “The pain I suffered will remain in my mind. They let me lie on the floor while, talking to me as if I didn’t matter. That experience I can’t forget. When they discovered I was wife of Minister Kikwete they suddenly changed their attitude towards me,” Salma Kikwete recalled. (Habari Leo)

POLITICAL PARTIES: CCM:Court brokers seize party properties

Properties belonging to Tanzania One Theatre (TOT), owned by CCM, were seized by Majembe Auction Mart court brokers. This was after TOT failed to repay a loan of Sh 30 million they took from the Dar es Salaam Community Bank (DCB). The bank director, Edmund Mkwawa, said they have been asking TOT to settle the debt for a long time. “They kept promising us. Last time they promised to pay within a month, but they defaulted. We even approached the party Secretary General Yusuf Makamba but to no avail,” Mkwawa lamented. Director of TOT, Captain (retired) John Komba confirmed that two trucks were seized at the headquarters in Mwananyamala, adding that he is to approach the party to bail them out. “Let us be clear. The vehicles belong to TOT and not CCM. Of course TOT belongs to CCM, but then what is the big deal? Even government has debts in terms of billions,” Komba replied. This comes at a time when the party is preparing to raise Sh 40 billion for election campaign. The TOT vehicles are normally used in presidential campaign trail and other culture activities. They played an important role in motivating and animating party supporters during presidential campaigns in 2000 and in 2005. (Majira, Tanzania Daima)

CCM: Members protest in Mwanza, Moshi, Dar

Situation seems to be far from calm within the party, with some members indulging in bickering and squabbling. Several incidents have been reported at a time when the party is gearing towards the October elections. In Kilimanjaro a row erupted at a meeting following which all seven members of political committee in Moshi municipality were forced to resign. Problem was over a local businessman who allegedly uses money to induce party leaders into violating laws and regulations. In Mwanza, over 60 members of the youth wing (UVCCM) in Magu District marched with placards protesting against their district secretary accused of abusing his office. Similar incident was reported from Temeke in Dar es Salaam. (Nipashe) 

OPPOSITION: Opposition warns of irregularities

Opposition parties have warned the government over ‘poor arrangements’ being made for the elections 2010. They say in case of any disturbance it would be held responsible. Leaders of Chadema and CUF told this paper that the Parliament has about one month to go before dissolution, yet the government has not tabled regulations for the Election Expenses Act 2010. Furthermore, the Act itself has to be rectified after it was fidgeted by the government. “Meanwhile we hear President Jakaya Kikwete declaring that ‘entertainment’ during campaign can’t be avoided. And then Registrar John Tendwa tells us it was said with a light touch. This is sending wrong signals,” Chadema chairman Freeman Mbowe cautioned. (Majira)

Snippets

1      PCCB says three bigwigs to be arraigned soon (Mwananchi, Majira, Tanzania Daima)

2      Over 316 university applications found to be fraudulent (Mwananchi)

3      Artumas pull out of power project in the south (Mwananchi, Mtanzania)

4      POAC tells govt to settle Sh 7.3 billion debt with pension funds (Mwananchi)

5      Tanzania leading EAC in inflation rate (Tanzania Daima)

6      Law Society says prisons are congested (Majira)

7      Police need not depend on FBI (An-Nuur)

8      Swiss envoy - Africa should not depend on donor funding (Nipashe)

9      Now form four education to decline to primary level (An-Nuur)

10   Over 400 students ‘fined’ 200,000/- following riots (Habari Leo)

11   Village officers in Rufiji ‘sell’ bed nets instead of giving freely (Mtanzania)

12   Anti-smoking activists decry delay in passing laws (Nipashe)

Kiswahili Press: 29th May 2010

Collected by:  British High Commission, Dar es Salaam  http://ukintanzania.fco.gov.uk/en

PARLIAMENT: MPs slam Mkullo

Parliamentary Committee for Finance and Economy questioned a report presented by Finance Minister Mustafa Mkullo on past and future performance. They told the minister his report was nice sounding but not practical. Some committee members called upon the minister to resign, saying he failed to do his job. Mkullo told lawmakers that he couldn’t reach the targets set last year due to global economic downturn. He promised to put more emphasis on economic and social sectors in future so as to boost the national economy. Mkullo predicted a 7 percent growth in 2010, going up to 7.8 percent in 2013. He apologised for the delay in distributing the report, saying it was approved by the cabinet only a day before presentation. (Nipashe, Mwananchi)

Privatised factories shut down

Members of the standing Committee for Finance and Economy called upon the government to repossess privatised factories that failed to perform well. During a discussion on investment in the country, some members of the committee were dismayed that some investors who took state factories failed to run them and have instead changed them. MP for Iringa Urban (CCM), Monica Mbega said many privatised factories are not functioning, which is a loss to the country. “Why can’t the government look into ways and means of repossessing them?” she questioned. Dr Omar Mzeru (Morogoro Urban, CCM) cited an example of an edible oil factory, MOPROCO, which stopped production since 2004, yet in the report it is said to be doing well. He said some dishonest state officials are contributing to the failures by doctoring reports. Committee chairman, Hamza Mwinyigoha (CCM) told members that there are over 16 edible oil factories which have shut down. Owner of MOPROCO, Aziz Aboud said duty free importation of oil has contributed to the state of affairs. (Tanzania Daima)

ELECTIONS: PCCB to probe bribing candidates

Managing Director of Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB), Dr Edward Hosea said they have documented activities of hopeful candidates who have started distributing gifts in constituencies. Talking to ‘Radio Clouds’ on the Power Breakfast talk show yesterday, the PCCB chief warned that very soon the ‘culprits’ would be summoned and questioned. He noted that distributing gifts such as bicycles and motorbikes by people who aspire to stand in parliamentary or local elections is violation of Election Expenses Act 2010, adding that PCCB started investigating after receiving complaints from the public. Hosea was asked by a listener if President Jakaya Kikwete did not sanction bribing by saying that in Kilimanjaro one can’t avoid distributing local beer when calling a meeting. Hosea said Kikwete was referring to a traditional practice which has nothing to do with elections or politics, so he was not endorsing corruption. (Habari Leo, Nipashe)

BRITAIN: UK firm donates water pump to ‘London’ village

British firm of Grundfos dealing with solar powered water pumps, donated over Sh 50 million to a water project in London village in Manyoni district. Handing over the donation at a brief ceremony in the village, the firm representative, Niels Vinther, said they built infrastructure for a well and gave a solar pump. He said they decided to give the donation after finding the village suffering from acute water shortage, forcing women to walk 11 kilometres to fetch water. He advised the villagers to look after the equipments so that they last longer. Singida RC, Dr Parseko Kone said regional government will continue working with religious organisations and other stake holders who help in solving people’s problems. “I would like, on behalf of the government, to extend my sincere thanks to Grundfos for efforts they have been making in helping the London villagers,” Dr Kone said, thanking also the Anglican Church diocese for contacting the donor. (Mwananchi)

Snippets

1      Free distribution of bed nets marred by chaos (Majira, Habari Leo, Nipashe, Tanzania Daima)

2      Kikwete – Five new cement factories in the pipe line (Majira, Nipashe, Nipashe)

3      Minister Chiligati pledge speedy issuance of land titles (Majira, Nipashe)

4      Tobacco production on the rise in Manyoni (Majira)

5      Health Minister says anti-tobacco law is coming (Tanzania Daima)

6      ‘Govt can’t afford to provide food for HIV carriers (Majira, Mtanzania)

7      NEC – Voting to continue taking place on Sundays (Habari Leo, Tanzania Daima, Mtanzania, Mwananchi)

8      Police nab policeman over theft of car (Habari Leo)

9      Dar city magistrate hands three months to street vendor (Habari Leo)

10   Mob raids police station, killing three in Misungwi (Nipashe, Tanzania Daima, Mtanzania, Mwananchi)

11   CCM sales officer in court over theft of 85 party cards (Nipashe)

12   Govt urged to give more autonomy to CAG (Tanzania Daima)

13   Minister Kombani admits some local officers are incompetent (Tanzania Daima, Mtanzania)

14   Minister Mwanri tells contractors to stop bribing for tender (Mtanzania)

Press Summaries: May 21st, 2010

Source: British High Commission, Dar es Salaam http://ukintanzania.fco.gov.uk/en

Zanzibar: Grand welcome awaits Masauni  

Protest seems to be simmering within CCM youth wing (UVCCM) leadership, some of them saying President Jakaya Kikwete was instrumental in the resignation of Chairman Yusuf Masauni. They refuse to believe CCM Secretary General Yusuf Makamba who said Masauni resigned on his own volition. They even implicate Ridhwan Kikwete in the plot to oust Masauni. UVCCM Deputy Secretary General (Zanzibar) Mohammed Moyo was also asked to quit. Meanwhile, in Zanzibar party youth from Unguja and Pemba are preparing a grand welcome for Masauni. They are going to receive him at the Malindi jetty, with banners and T-shirts proclaiming Masauni as a hero. From there he will be escorted to his home at Kisima Majongoo. (Nipashe, Mwananchi, Mtanzania, Tanzania Daima, Majira 

Governance: Ministers on campaign trails

In a move that is seen as part of the elections fever, State House has issued a circular suspending all foreign travels of ministers who are instead required to tour the regions. They are told to go and meet the people and explain to them how the government has fulfilled its targets and promises. This will not be the first regional tour by ministers. In 2007 they were sent out to propagate and promote the 2007/08 budget. This time a time-table has been prepared for ministers’ regional visits. RCs are told to make sure that the visits are “well prepared and organised.” (Mwananchi)

Opposition: Chadema - CCM is playing foul

Chadema said it has obtained documents purporting to show how CCM intends to rig the October elections. Chadema director of legal and human rights, Tundu Lissu told the press yesterday that the papers were seized in Singida after a CCM cadre was found recording details of voters. It instructs branch secretaries to carry out a census of all voters with their particulars. They are told they will be given funds to enable them to conduct campaign in various places such as music halls and wedding parties. Lissu said it is evident that CCM intends to bribe voters. He called upon the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB), the police and National Electoral Commission (NEC) to intervene and take steps against those responsible. He also urged civil and faith-based organisations to make sure that the attempt by CCM is nipped in the bud.  When contacted, the CCM director for publicity, Tambwe Hiza, said all his party is doing is listing and recording its members without interfering with opposition members. (Nipashe, Tanzania Daima, Majira)

 

Diplomatic: Embassy suspect is orphan

It is revealed that Nassib Zukheri (16), a student who is accused of trying to blow up the US Embassy in Dar es Salaam, is an orphan staying with his aunt. Sources say he lives at Kinondoni Moscow, near the Livingstone Hotel. This paper managed to reach his home where the aunt, Chiku Simba, said she knew nothing about Nassib. Chiku, in the company of her husband Mzee Simba, said: “All we know is what we read in the press.” But neighbours confirmed that Nassib stays with the aunt since his parents died. Meanwhile, the US Embassy has issued a statement saying on 16 May this year, at 8.30 pm Nassib managed to bypass the KK security guards at the main gate. He then threw a Molotov cocktail at a water truck that was parked near the fence. There was no fire and no one was hurt, the mission statement says. (Habari Leo)

Snippets:

1      Spin doctors invent stories over US Embassy (An-Nuur)

2      Mwanza mayor nabbed over murder of CCM ward secretary (Habari Leo, Nipashe, Mwananchi, Mtanzania, Tanzania Daima, Majira)

3      Mara RC to nab school girls given in marriage (Habari Leo)

4      NEC declares new constituencies (Nipashe)

5      Dar voters urged to register on Tuesday, Wednesday (Nipashe, Mtanzania)

6      Ten are rescued as ‘MV Muafaka’ goes under with 200 bags of charcoal while sailing from Pemba to Kenya  (Nipashe)

7      Form four students in Tanga boycott mock exams (Nipashe)

8      Swedish ambassador cautions on misuse of public funds (Mwananchi)

9      Pemba power project is sabotaged (Mwananchi)

10    Kilimanjaro to produce 2 million tons of food next year (Mwananchi)

11   CCM leaders have a fist fight in Kagera (Mtanzania)

12   NGOs say MKUKUTA failed to deliver (Majira)

13   Kisarawe teachers spend one week in a month to chase salary (Majira)

14   The hammer on CCM crest is now used to knock workers (An-Nuur)

Press Summaries: Apology

Friends,
I would like to express my sincere regret for not being able to post these updates for the past few months.   I am sincerely sorry for all the inconvenience caused by this.
It is my assessment that I am now In a better position to continue bringing you these snippets than it has been for the past. - enjoy

Kiswahili Press summaries for Dec 2nd.

British High Commission, Dar es Salaam
http://ukintanzania.fco.gov.uk/en
2 December 2009

Zanzibar: Bomb blasts during Idd

Three bombs went off at three separate amusement joints during Idd el Hajj festival in Urban West. Police said one person was seriously injured, while two people are held for questioning. The bombs, believed to be dynamites, went off at 10.30 pm at Gymkhana Club, Intro Bar and Phone Club. Regional Police Commander (RPC) for Urban West, Khatib Shaaban told reporters that the incidents happened while people were dancing and drinking. He named the victim as Yusuf Said Zubeir (25) but declined to name the suspects. (Nipashe)

Governance: Another EPA scam within TRA

The theft of Sh 800 million in Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) is compared to External Payment Account (EPA) scam in the Bank of Tanzania (BoT). BoT asked the money to be refunded and everything will be forgiven. Similarly, TRA merely demanded the refund of the money while no prosecution has taken place. The theft of salary money was discovered six months ago but police was never informed. Sources say the matter might now be handed over to the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB). When contacted, TRA Chairperson, Marcelina Chijoriga declined to comment. “I can’t say anything as an ad-hoc committee of the board is investigating. We haven’t yet received a report so I can’t comment,” she said. (Raia Mwema)

CCM:Simba, Kilango on collision course

MP for Same East (CCM), Anne Kilango had to escape wrath of 300 angry women in Mwanga district on Monday. They were blocking her car, demanding allowance for a meeting that she called. In the end, district UWT secretary, Luciano Sagati intervened and took her away. Kilango had called the meeting to congratulate women who won in the recent civic elections. When contacted, she said: “There was no question of me paying transport or any allowance to over 400 participants, for not only it was not budgeted but that would amount to bribery”.

Meanwhile, Kilango’s wrangle with Minister of State (Good Governance) Sophia Simba has taken a new turn. While Kilango is preparing to sue Simba on defamation charges, the matter has reached CCM headquarters and State House. This is after Kilango wrote a letter to CCM Secretary General and Prime Minister, informing them of the impending lawsuit. In the letter she said her action does not involve the party or government. Sources say however the party and government are concerned, because Simba is not only a minister in the State House but also a member of the party Central Committee. Kilango served a notice on Simba, asking her to apologise within two weeks. In reply, Simba said she is willing to meet Kilango in court. (Tanzania Daima, Mwananchi)

Kikwete thwarts Aziz, Makamba

Rostam Aziz and Secretary General Yusuf Makamba are blocked in their attempts to raise slush funds for presidential election next year. They have been collecting the funds locally and overseas, but this time sources say Kikwete decided to “look for alternate means”. One senior party leader said: “No one will be allowed to raise funds clandestinely. We want to distance the party from ‘dirty’ money.” The idea was discussed with Kikwete and he gave a go-ahead. Meanwhile, two weeks ago an ad-hoc committee of five led by Makamba was appointed to raise the funds. Members included tycoons who are being accused of grand corruption. Then came the announcement by party treasurer, Amos Makala that the party is to depend on individual members to contribute through mobile phones. At the time Makamba refused to comment, but on Monday he praised the idea, saying he fully agreed with it. (MwanaHalisi, Majira)

Snippets

1 PCCB says MPs under prosecution should be suspended (Tanzania Daima, Mwananchi, Nipashe, Habari Leo, Raia Mwema, Majira, Mtanzania)
2 Railway workers raid management offices (Tanzania Daima, Mwananchi, Mwananchi, Habari Leo, Majira)
3 Arusha court workers strike over pay arrears (Tanzania Daima, Mwananchi, Nipashe, Habari Leo, Majira)
4 Chadema tells Membe to reply to UN allegations over DRC (Tanzania Daima, Nipashe)
5 NCCR – We want Zitto Kabwe to join us (Mwananchi)
6 Interpol nets 54 stolen vehicles (Tanzania Daima, Mwananchi, Habari Leo, Majira, Mtanzania)
7 Another prison inmate graduates in law (Mwananchi, Nipashe, Habari Leo, Majira)
8 NEC differs with Minister Marmo over ballot papers (Mwananchi, Nipashe, Habari Leo, Majira, Mtanzania)
9 HIV screening now to be door to door (Nipashe)
10 Air Tanzania gives termination letters to 155 workers (Habari Leo)
11 Ilala councillors demand Sh 50,000 for attending AIDS day (Majira)
12 Battered husbands to launch their NGO in Moshi (Majira)
13 ‘It is shameful for govt to squander Sh 150 billion on 800 posh cars’ (Mtanzania letter)

Kiswahili Press summaries for Dec 1st.

British High Commission,Dar es Salaam
http://ukintanzania.fco.gov.uk/en
1 December 2009

Zanzibar: People still boycott registration

Minister of State in Chief Minister’s Office, Hamza Hassan Juma told this paper it is surprising that many people still refuse to register as voters, despite the détente between President Amani Karume and CUF Secretary General Seif Sharif Hamad. He said government hoped that after the meeting of the two leaders the boycott would end but this did not happen. Juma said government will continue giving civic education though the decision to register lies with individuals. “We can’t force people to register, but it would be better for them to exercise their voting right,” the minister urged. (Nipashe)

Governance: Butiku – Kikwete is surrounded by crooks

Director of Mwalimu Nyerere Foundation (MNF), Joseph Butiku said President Jakaya Kikwete is surrounded by corrupt businessmen. He told a colloquium organised by MNF in Dar es Salaam yesterday that Kikwete needs to be freed from the “chain of corruption.” Butiku, who was personal assistant to Nyerere for over 20 years, declared: “I am now 72. Anything can happen to me and I don’t care. We can’t have a head of state who has compromised his position. It all started at a meeting of the Central Committee in 1995 when the present leaders started CCM ‘network’ to back up Kikwete.”

Former Prime Minister Joseph Warioba called upon the government to take a resolute action to save the country and its people. He urged people to discuss policies rather than individuals. Anglican bishop for Dodoma, Peter Mwamasika said the rise in corruption and moral degradation is due to the abandoning of Arusha Declaration. “Let us bring it back for the sake of our nation, albeit with some adjustments,” he said. Retired Brigadier General Mbena slammed: “During the times of Mwalimu DC used to drive around with Land Rover 109, but now they demand to be chauffeured in classy cars costing Sh 150 million, with western lifestyle.”

Minister of State (Public Service Management), Hawa Ghasia was booed by participants when she tried to defend the government by talking of modernisation and development at village level. She was shouted down and had to cut short her contribution.

The three-day meeting is attended by political, religious, state and civic leaders as well as by foreign diplomats. (Habari Leo, Majira, Mtanzania, Tanzania Daima, Nipashe, Mwananchi)

CCM:Makala spoke as individual

The statement by party treasurer, Amos Makala regarding collection of campaign funds through mobile phones seems to have raised a controversy within the party. Secretary General Yusuf Makamba has distanced himself from the decision, saying it was taken by Makala himself. Thus, when Makamba was contacted by phone, he snapped: “Ask Makala for details. I have nothing to do with it.” Makala told this paper it was indeed his personal proposal which he intends to submit to his accounts department for onward transmission to the party secretariat. After Makala made the announcement, CUF said he is trying to deceive CCM members. A CUF statement said: “CCM is not capable of avoiding funds from corrupt tycoons, as they are not only the main financiers, but are also among the top party leaders”. (Majira)

Opposition: Kabwe supports Kafulila

Deputy Secretary General of Chadema, Zitto Kabwe declared his support for his ally, David Kafulila, who defected to NCCR. Kabwe said he will back Kafulila as NCCR candidate for Kigoma South in 2010 elections. In fact Kabwe has already donated three vehicles to help him in his campaign. Sources say Kabwe is supporting Kafulila so as to make sure the opposition clinches the seat from the ruling CCM. In 2000 the seat was won by NCCR. In 2005 NCCR took second position followed by Chadema. In the recent civic elections CCM took 20 seats followed by Chadema with 12 and NCCR with 11 seats. Thus, in the 2005 elections if Chadema had backed NCCR the seat would have been taken by the opposition. Kabwe is therefore supporting Kafulila so as to unseat CCM in the neighbouring constituency. With the backing of Kabwe, Kafulila hopes to garner Chadema votes in Kigoma South. (Mwananchi)

Snippets

1 TRL fails to pay November salary (Habari Leo, Majira, Mtanzania, Tanzania Daima)
2 Book Aid International (UK) to donate to Ukonga prison (Habari Leo, Majira, Tanzania Daima, Nipashe, Mwananchi)
3 Kahama DC calls for less guest houses, bars (Habari Leo, Mwananchi)
4 Pregnant woman dies due to negligence at Kiteto hospital (Majira)
5 Cholera toll reaches 458 in Dar (Majira)
6 Nzowa - Drug barons to be dragged to court soon (Mtanzania)
7 DRC embassy denies report on Tanzanian mercenaries (Mtanzania, Tanzania Daima)
8 ‘Are our elected leaders paying taxes?’ (Mtanzania feature)
9 Zanzibar court orders auctioning of Bwawani Hotel (Nipashe)
10 Police gun down six suspected poachers in Serengeti (Nipashe, Mwananchi)
11 Bakwata galled by commuting of death sentence (Mwananchi)
12 Govt closes schools in Kwimba to curb swine flu (Mwananchi)
13 Over 20 passengers taken off a plane to let in white tourists (Mwananchi)

Kiswahili Press summaries for Nov 30th

Kiswahili Press Summaries
British High Commission
Dar es Salaam
http://ukintanzania.fco.gov.uk/en
30 November 2009

Zanzibar

Hamad – United Zanzibar will beget united Tanzania

CUF Secretary General Seif Sharif Hamad said the aim of his meeting with President Amani Karume was to defend the interest of Zanzibar within the United Republic. Addressing an Idd el Hajj festival on Saturday, Hamad reminisced his days as Chief Minister, saying the old solidarity among islanders is going to come back. “A united Zanzibar will give rise to a united Tanzania. If we unite and defend our interest, Tanzania can also be united. A weak Zanzibar will beget a weak Tanzania. Our meeting will thus strengthen Tanzania,” Hamad claimed. Earlier, welcoming Hamad, CUF deputy chairman Machano Khamis Ali called upon Zanzibaris to ignore those who smear the Hamad-Karume rapprochement. (Habari Leo, Mwananchi)

Governance

Appeal Court violates procurement law

Public procurement tribunal (PPAA) has repealed a decision by the Appeal Court to award to the Emerging Market Group a Sh 450 million tender for training of court staff. The tender is said to have violated public procurement regulations. The Appeal Court awarded the tender to the Group and its associates Rex Attorney in December 2007 when only two bidders submitted their quotations. The Group thus ‘defeated’ Kilimanjaro International Corporation. Following appeal filed by Kilimanjaro, PPAA quashed the tender and asked the Court to float fresh tender. (Mwananchi)

Opposition

Mnyika – CCM is instigating row in Chadema

Acting Secretary General of Chadema, John Mnyika said CCM is smearing his party. Addressing a meeting of party youth council, Mnyika said CCM spreads rumours that Chadema is expelling young leaders. “This can't be true, especially when our motto is ‘youth is the nation of today’ unlike CCM who says of tomorrow. We are the only party with 30 percent of its lawmakers being young,” Mnyika said.

He also challenged CCM to say how it intends to spend Sh 40 billion in 2010 elections, keeping in mind that it comes to Sh 200 million for each constituency. That amount of money can’t be clean, he said, reminding that in 2005 President Jakaya Kikwete claimed to have raised donations from members only to discover later that it was slush fund that came from EPA. “If they really spent clean money then let them take action against Kagoda,” Mnyika challenged.

Similar statement came from CUF in a press release issued by deputy head of publicity, Ms Ashura Mustapha. She said CCM is cheating its members by claiming that it is not going to accept donations from corrupt tycoons. She said many of them are in fact prominent members of CCM Central Committee and National Executive Committee (NEC), yet the party claims to be distancing itself from them. Mustapha said: “Some of them are prosecuted or accused yet CCM hasn’t taken any steps against them.” She was responding to a statement by CCM treasurer, Amos Makala that his party is going to collect donations ‘from members through SMS and not from corrupt tycoons’. (Majira, Habari Leo, Nipashe, Mwananchi, Tanzania Daima

Private Sector

Precision Air accused of racism

More than 15 Tanzanian passengers travelling by Precision Air flight from Arusha to Dar es Salaam were disembarked and their seats given to foreign passengers. This happened yesterday at Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), causing commotion that lasted for 30 minutes. The airport security had to intervene and force the passengers to get off the plane. They later told reporters they were asked to hand over their seats to white passengers without explanation. “This is sheer racial discriminations,” they complained. One of them, Pamela Msuya, said just before the take-off at 7 am the pilot switched off the engine and said there was an emergency. At 11.40 am the engine was again switched off and then they were told to give way to passengers going to Zanzibar. “We were insulted though we had confirmed and advanced booking, unlike the whites who did on-the-spot booking,” she said. When contacted, the airline official said: “We are dealing with the matter.” (Tanzania Daima)

Snippets

1 Another Richmond scam simmering in Tanesco (Kulikoni, Nipashe)
2 Membe tells UN to apologise over arming of Rwanda rebels (Majira, Mtanzania, Habari Leo, Nipashe, Mwananchi, Tanzania Daima)
3 Veteran women MPs risk being booted in 2010 (Mtanzania)
4 Dr Magufuli – My doctorate is not fake (Mtanzania)
5 Two law professors say bigwigs must explain their ‘fake’ degrees (Mwananchi)
6 Two Zanzibar women pilgrims die in Mecca (Habari Leo)
7 Morogoro DC condemns rampart sale of village land (Habari Leo)
8 BoT hands to CAG report on insurance of twin towers (Mwananchi)
9 Pyramid scheme victims admitted to hospital (Tanzania Daima)
10 Tanzania Oxygen officers to be prosecuted (Tanzania Daima)
11 Retired police officers live in abject poverty (Tanzania Daima)

Open Positions for Agric. Econ (CIMMYT)

Agricultural Economist – Senior Scientist or Scientist

The International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) seeks two well qualified agricultural economists to join our
international team of scientists working on improving the livelihoods of maize and wheat farmers in the developing world. As a
member of the CIMMYT Socioeconomics Program and in collaboration with public, private, local and international partners, we
want you to create new opportunities for resource-poor farmers, help us and decision-makers to understand the key constraints to
agricultural development, and translate your vision into a productive and exciting research agenda.
Rooted in a strong culture of high-quality agricultural economics and social science research, the CIMMYT Socioeconomics
Program has a team of qualified and motivated scientists operating in different regions and working closely with biophysical
scientists. Preferably you will be based at one of our main research sites in Asia (China, India, Nepal), but there are also research
opportunities in Africa (based in Ethiopia, Kenya, or Zimbabwe), Latin America (based in Mexico), or the CWANA and CAC regions
(based in Turkey).
Primary research objectives include:
• Applied and strategic socioeconomics research for improving the productivity and market competitiveness of farmers in low-income countries and
reducing their vulnerability to climate change and other shocks.
• Analysis of agricultural transformation, productivity change, resource use, sustainability and the drivers of change in maize- and wheat-based
farming systems for improved priority stetting of agricultural research for development.
• Understanding the determinants of technology adoption, impact pathways, and differential outcomes on poverty, gender, and food security for
targeting technology and policy interventions.
• Alternative strategies for enhancing farmer access to and use of available technologies, and better markets for surplus produce, improved seed,
fertilizer, and other inputs.
Your job will require that you:
• Publish and communicate research results through journals, policy briefs, general interest outlets, and the media.
• Develop concept notes and proposals in strategic research areas.
• Work and interact with partners from universities, national and international research systems, policy makers and donors.
• Contribute to the capacity building of partners in national agricultural research systems.
• Participate in center-wide and program strategy development and priority setting.
We are seeking candidates with the following qualifications:
• PhD in Agricultural Economics or related disciplines.
• Relevant postdoctoral experience of at least 7 years (senior scientist) or 3 years (scientist).
• Demonstrated contributions to applied agricultural economics through publications in international peer-reviewed journals.
• An effective innovative and energetic team player with the ability to work in a multidisciplinary and multi-cultural environment which may involve
extensive travel.
• Desirably, experience in combining applied quantitative agricultural economics with qualitative methods; survey design and analysis; impact
assessment; and a good understanding of the challenges of agricultural transformation and poverty.
• Experience in project development and management.
• Excellent English communication and writing skills.

Still in Bongo

Wow!
IT has been over 2 years... and yes, I am still in Bongo!
You may be wondering... what is the big deal?
Well, let me just say - it is and has been a big deal! Can you try to figure out how many of waTz wanatafakari mchana na usiku on how they can take the leap and return back home? - let me just say... A LOT of them. and thus it is very big deal kuamua na actually kurudi "nyumbani".
Unajua tatizo ni: ukweli kuwa uamuzi huo ni mgumu sana. - Na hasa kama mtu umeweza
kujiweka sawa, una kazi yako nzuri tu, na you have finally figured out on how to do life... katika mazingira kama hayo, a decision to re-locate back to Tz - is a big deal my friend. Na ukweli ni kuwa, one should think of that decision as such!

Kwa upande wangu, mwanzo haukuwa rahisi. Tulitua Dar mwishoni mwa April 2007! By Mid August - binafsi nilikuwa tayari ku-pack and return back to America (where I knew how things work, and could live a life with a certain degree of certainty).
Things were "so hard" that I seriously question my sanity! Now I must qualify with a "hind-site" observation that; the "hardness" was primarily from my expectations /my mindset! Things were not working out as I expected... but my MINDSET made it harder to make anysense of what was going on.
Lets see...BY that time:
1: Tulikuwa hatujui container letu lipo wapi - ingawa tulipata taarifa limefika, na we did not think anything was wrong - until ilipofika wakati wa kwenda kukagua - only to go and find the container is "Nowhere to be seen" - yo can imagine our shock!
2. Vigari vyetu vilikuwa bado vimekwama bandarini... jamaa walikuwa wanadai kodi kama zao!
3. Hatukuwa tumejitayarisha na mahali pa kuishi (kumbuka tulisha hama - "for good"!), na tulikuwa hatupati nyumba ya kupanga iliyo-fit our budget na "description". Kwa sababu ya kuja na a "pre-conceived idea" of where I want to leave and in what way; it become impossible for us to find an ideal house. The fact kuwa every landlord wanted tomake extra cash (in $) coupled by a "whaky" real estate market didn't make things any easier. Kuna wakati ilibidi mimi na watoto wangu tulale katika hostel ya waroma - for 2 weeks!na bado jamaa walikuwa wana charge $35 and $45 per room. THAT WAS so hard to swallow! But it knocked some sense into me! INfact it was during that time that I knew I MUST change my mindset - otherwise WE WILL DIE!
hapo huja weka what we saw ourseleves as consistently struggling with the pace and the way things works (in ALL aspects of life); Wajanja wana ku"lamba" left n' right... i mean.. it was as if jamaa walikuwa wamepania ku "wahi vidola kabla havijaisha" - it was NOT a good experience!

Sasa ni rahisi kuona kuwa The reality of "home coming" was not all that rosy! And at that time it was very tempting to think and actually kudai "this place has no system" and "nothing works!". BUT kama kuna ukweli ni kuwa... THAT IS NOT TRUE...
THERE IS a system here (in Bongo), and YES THINGS WORKS! - it is just that they work very differently from what we knew how things works! Things works here!
Friend, I am convinced knowing this for sure is a deal breaker, if one has to make a successful re-entry! YOUR PERCEPTION on this IS EVERYTHING!

Probably, mtego mkubwa sana ni iwapo mtu uliondoka hapa ukiwa ushakuwa mtu mzima. Mtego wenyewe ni kwamba mtu unakuwa una "memory" of how things works... unakuwa unaelewaa "culture" ya Bongo etc.
Tatizo ni ukweli kuwa "culture" is a very dynamic concept. Culture IS NEVER static; na a mere fact kwamba umeishi katika mazingira tofauti, with a very different system, and a very different world view of things, hiyo tu ina tosha ku change so much of who you are, and how you see things; often without you knowing that you have changed at all. na kwa hiyo mtu unarudi hapa na uelewa wako.. only to find that "that" understanding actually is absolute - and does not work!
NI lazima mtu uwe tayari kukubali ukeli kuwa kuwa; ukirudi hapa, you WILL NOT be coming back the same person.This you must accept and prepare to face the consequence of that reality.

And so... if there is one thing I can say to all who plans to return home ni kwamba:
Think it through, na ikifikia ume amua kurudi nyumbani, YOU MUST also prepare and actually work on your attitude! Vitu hapa haviendi kama tulivyozoea huko ughabuni... and yet that is not synonymous to "things do not work" Ukirudi Bongo na mindset ya "things need to work this way" - utaumia. That is almost a guarantee my friend.

Having said that... niseme tu:
This is probably "THE BEST" decision I have made in my life. I am now used to life here, and to be very honest with you I LOVE IT! I mean really loving it! Of course hii haina maana U.S ndo basi tena.. infact tuna makazi na nyumba huko, inawezekana kabisa kurudi! Lakini pia ni ukweli kuwa east or west, home is best! I am now convinced; the trajectory of my life here is brighter kuliko nilivyokuwa US. Of course challenges hazikosekani - they are everywhere! Lakini kama ni future... inang'aa zaidi hapa kuliko nilivyokuwa U.S. Am I dilusional.. Absolutely NO.
How?... that is topic for another time.

Until then...
ciao my friend.

Ned