SADC leaders are convening in Lusaka to address security and peacekeeping challenges in the region, particularly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Mozambique. Tanzania, a key contributor to peacekeeping forces, emphasizes the importance of diplomatic efforts to resolve ongoing conflicts. The meeting occurs amid escalating M23 rebel attacks in eastern DRC and accusations among member states of supporting insurgents. Recent UN reports highlight significant displacement due to violence in both DRC and Mozambique, prompting SADC to extend its peacekeeping operations.

The ACT Wazalendo party in Tanzania is undergoing leadership changes as part of its constitutional requirements, with Zitto Kabwe stepping down after ten years. The party is preparing for upcoming local and general elections, with key figures like Doroth Semu and Othman Masoud Othman vying for leadership positions. The article also highlights the involvement of other political parties, including CNL from Burundi and CCM from Tanzania, in the discussions and preparations for the elections.

Tanzania has launched trial runs for its electric train project, which is 98% complete. The Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC) has received 62 carriages and four electric locomotives, with more expected by the end of March. The trials aim to dispel long-standing rumors about delays and are a significant step towards the official launch in July. The project promises to reduce travel time significantly, benefiting many citizens and easing road transport challenges.

Residents of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, are expressing concern over a sugar shortage despite government efforts to address the issue. The price of sugar has significantly increased, causing financial strain on citizens. Reports suggest that some traders are hoarding sugar to profit from the crisis. The situation has led to criticism of the government, with opposition politicians also voicing their discontent. The Tanzanian Price Authority has set price guidelines, and inspections are being conducted to ensure compliance.

Condolences continue to pour in at Karemjee as mourners gather to pay their last respects to Edward Lowassa, a prominent Tanzanian politician who passed away in Dar es Salaam after a long illness. National leaders, including Vice President Dr. Philip Mpango, are among the mourners, highlighting Lowassa's dedication and significant contributions to the nation. Former Prime Minister Joseph Warioba and other leaders praised Lowassa's steadfastness and meticulous work ethic. Lowassa, who held various positions within CCM and the government, resigned as Prime Minister during Jakaya Kikwete's administration due to the Richmond scandal. He will be buried in Monduli, Arusha, with President Samia Suluhu Hassan leading the funeral.

Former Tanzanian Prime Minister Edward Lowassa has died while receiving treatment for intestinal obstruction, lung problems, and high blood pressure at the Jakaya Kikwete hospital. Vice President Philip Mpango announced his death, and President Samia Suluhu Hassan expressed her condolences, declaring five days of mourning. Lowassa, known for his firm stances and criticism within his party, CCM, had a significant political career, including a brief tenure as Prime Minister from 2005 to 2008 and a switch to the opposition party Chadema in 2015. John Mrema of Chadema praised Lowassa's leadership and convictions.

CCM, formed from the merger of TANU and ASP, has dominated Tanzanian politics since the one-party system era. Despite its deep-rooted influence, the party faces scrutiny over its operational systems and constitutional ties. Analysts like Sammy Ruhuza suggest that CCM might struggle if political competition becomes fairer. The party's adaptability and strategic leadership changes are seen as key to its prolonged dominance. As Tanzania approaches local and general elections, questions about the fairness of these elections will determine the true influence of all political parties.

Tanzania and Kenya are experiencing renewed tensions in the aviation sector, focusing on Air Tanzania and Kenya Airways. The conflict arises as Tanzania revokes Kenya Airways' passenger flight permit in response to Kenya's refusal to allow Tanzanian cargo flights. Analysts warn that such disputes hinder economic stability, especially in tourism. Meanwhile, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo continue their long-standing hostilities, with Rwanda accused of meddling in Congo's internal conflicts. Burundi has also accused Rwanda of supporting rebels, leading to the closure of their border. These tensions highlight ongoing instability within the East African Community.

The ruling party in Tanzania, CCM, has accepted the resignation of its Secretary-General, a decision that has sparked new questions and debates about internal party dynamics ahead of upcoming elections. The resignation was unexpected and the reasons behind it are currently under investigation by the party. Interim leadership has been appointed, and political analysts are closely observing these developments as politicians position themselves for local and general elections in 2025.

TAMWA, the Tanzanian Association of Women Journalists, marks its 36th anniversary with discussions reflecting the state of journalism in the country. The organization highlights its achievements in advocating for female journalists facing economic and gender-based challenges. Joyce Shebe, TAMWA's chairperson, emphasizes the success against a backdrop of patriarchal systems. Representing President Samia Suluhu Hassan, Minister Jenista Mhagama acknowledges the contributions of female journalists.

TAMWA celebrates 36 years of advocating for women journalists in Tanzania, highlighting significant progress in gender equality and leadership positions in media. The organization, founded in 1987, has been instrumental in initiating national discussions and influencing policy changes. Current challenges such as sexual corruption are still being addressed. Representatives from the Tanzanian government and the US Embassy acknowledged the contributions of women journalists and the importance of press freedom.

The Tanzanian government's operation to curb prostitution has faced criticism for its humiliating methods, including publicly displaying the faces of those involved. Critics argue that the operation undermines human dignity and fails to provide a lasting solution. Activist Samsoni Mbunila condemns the officials for not addressing the root causes of the issue. The operation, led by officials like Kinondoni District Commissioner Saad Mtambule, has sparked mixed reactions, with some calling for a more permanent solution to the problem.

The African Football League's inaugural match took place at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Tanzania, drawing a large crowd of enthusiastic fans, including notable figures like FIFA President Gianni Infantino and former Arsenal coach Arsene Wenger. The local team, Simba, expressed high hopes and confidence despite facing a strong Egyptian team. The event marked a significant moment in African football, with extensive preparations and high security measures in place.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania emphasized the government's commitment to national unity and criticized politicians who use public platforms to incite discord. She clarified that the lifting of the ban on public meetings was intended for political parties to discuss policies and strategies, not to engage in defamatory rhetoric. The opposition parties have been focusing on constitutional reforms, economic hardships, and a controversial port contract with Dubai's DP World. The three-day forum, involving various democracy stakeholders and officially registered political parties, aims to present recommendations to the government. The event coincides with the release on bail of CHADEMA's Vice Chairman, Tundu Lissu, who was arrested for attempting to hold an unauthorized meeting.

The Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (Ewura) in Tanzania has attributed the 21% increase in global oil prices and political instability in major oil-producing countries, particularly OPEC, to the rise in fuel prices in Tanzania. Despite assurances from Ewura about sufficient oil reserves, reports indicate that consumers are struggling with shortages, leading to long queues and disputes at fuel stations. Ewura has taken action against some fuel sellers for exacerbating public fears, including shutting down two stations for six months. The new fuel prices are significantly higher compared to recent months.

A three-day conference in Dar es Salaam focuses on how African countries can overcome food insecurity, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Participants emphasize the need for food system reforms and actions to ensure food security for all. Tanzanian Vice President Dr. Philip Mpango highlights the country's strategies, including youth and women-targeted projects, increased agricultural budgets, and modern technology use. The conference aims to set future food system improvement goals and showcase Tanzania's agricultural achievements to attract both local and international investors.

The Tanzania High Court has approved the controversial port contract between the government and DP World, dismissing all six objections raised by the plaintiffs. The court found no substantial flaws in the contract, despite procedural concerns. The decision has sparked mixed reactions and is expected to continue fueling public and political debates. The plaintiffs' lawyer, Boniface Mwabukusi, plans to appeal the ruling. The issue has divided politicians and the public, with some supporting further legal action.

Chadema leaders exhibit differing views on President Samia Suluhu Hassan's administration. While Chairman Mbowe praises the President for restoring national stability, he also criticizes the government's handling of the DP World port contract. In contrast, Vice Chairman Tundu Lissu openly criticizes the administration, maintaining a firm stance despite warnings. The differing perspectives within Chadema raise questions among political observers, though such internal disagreements are common in political parties globally.

The ruling party CCM is ready to advise the government to review the contract with DP World of Dubai, acknowledging its flaws, a shift from its initial support. The opposition party Chadema continues to oppose the contract nationwide. Activist and lawyer Boniface Mwabukusi remains steadfast in his campaign against the contract despite facing ethical violation accusations. The government has yet to issue a final stance on the matter, intensifying debates between supporters and critics.

A conference focusing on human resource issues has commenced in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, with President Samia Suluhu Hassan warning of the need for decisive action to assist the increasingly large youth population. She emphasized the importance of a unified African agenda to foster youth prosperity, especially as the world enters the fourth industrial revolution. The conference aims to increase investment in human resources to boost productivity, with a focus on the youth, who make up 60% of Africa's population. The World Bank, co-organizer of the event, calls for policy changes to hasten economic reforms. The conference concluded with a joint statement in Dar es Salaam, marking its first occurrence in Africa with Tanzania as the host.

African leaders are convening to address challenges hindering the continent's development, focusing on the African Union's direction and the United Nations' sustainable development goals. The agenda emphasizes empowering Africa's youth, who constitute 60% of the population, to drive economic activities. The Tanzanian government and the World Bank are organizing the event, highlighting the need for rapid economic growth. Vice President of Tanzania, Dr. Philip Mpango, urged African nations to create a unified agenda to uplift the youth and the continent. The meeting aims to establish strategies for youth development, with sectoral ministers discussing various areas before final resolutions are made by the heads of state.

Tanzanian political parties are in a heated debate over an economic agreement with DP World, with the opposition party Chadema criticizing the deal for potentially compromising national interests. Chadema leaders, including Freeman Mbowe and Dr. Wilbroad Slaa, have voiced strong opposition, urging unity against the ruling party CCM's stance. Meanwhile, CCM, led by Daniel Chongolo, defends the agreement as part of their policy implementation. The agreement, signed between Tanzania and Dubai, aims to enhance the operations of Tanzanian ports, but its future remains uncertain as the debate continues.

A conference organized by the International Association of Women Police Africa Region is being held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, to address rising crime rates in Africa, including digital and cross-border crimes. Senior police coordinator Pili Phope from Tanzania highlighted the importance of the event in equipping female officers with modern skills to combat various types of crime. The conference, which includes participants from multiple African countries, aims to foster a unified approach to security challenges. HRW, M23, and Rwanda are mentioned in the context of regional security issues.

Tanzania's Minister of Construction and Transport, Prof. Makame Mbarawa, defended the government's agreement with DP World, citing the company's extensive capabilities in port operations across various continents. The government aims to revitalize the country's port sector, which has been criticized for underperformance. The agreement has sparked significant public debate, with critics alleging corruption and lack of transparency, although no evidence has been presented. Opposition politicians and activists have taken legal action against the agreement, making it a central political issue.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania addressed the nation in Mwanza, emphasizing that Tanzania is indivisible and not for sale amidst ongoing debates about foreign control over the country's ports. Her statement aimed to reassure citizens and counter critics of her foreign investment policies. The issue has sparked mixed reactions from analysts, citizens, and religious leaders, with concerns about the implications of a contract with Dubai's DP World to manage Tanzanian ports. Despite government efforts to clarify the situation, skepticism remains high among the public.

The Tanzania Law Society (TLS) has intervened in the ongoing debate over the leasing of Tanzanian ports to a foreign investor, specifically the Dubai Government. The TLS has formed a committee of legal experts to review the agreement, which has sparked significant public concern and parliamentary debate. The agreement involves the management of key ports, including the Dar es Salaam port, which is crucial for Tanzania and neighboring countries. The parliamentary discussion has revealed a divide among lawmakers, with some questioning the agreement's terms and others supporting the government's privatization efforts.

The potential lease of Dar es Salaam Port to Dubai-based DP World has sparked a significant debate in Tanzania, involving various stakeholders including government officials and opposition parties. Concerns have been raised about the transparency and implications of the lease agreement, with some fearing it could lead to controversial outcomes. The Tanzanian government, through the Tanzania Ports Authority, has initiated discussions with DP World, although no formal agreement has been signed. The debate has also reached the Tanzanian parliament, where the Minister of Works and Transport, Prof. Makame Mbarawa, attempted to alleviate concerns by highlighting the success of similar public-private partnerships globally. Opposition leader Freeman Mbowe of Chadema plans to issue a statement, and the government spokesperson's office will hold an open discussion on the matter via Clubhouse.

Political parties in Tanzania express optimism about President Samia Suluhu Hassan's commitment to democratic reforms, including the creation of a new constitution and an independent electoral commission. CUF emphasizes the importance of public opinion in the constitutional process, while ACT-Wazalendo supports proposed legal reforms. The timeline for discussions between the registrar of political parties and the political parties' council remains uncertain.

Tanzanian political parties share a closely aligned perspective on President Samia Suluhu Hassan's statement, seeing it as a sign of progress towards a new constitution, a long-standing demand since the initial process stalled in 2014. They believe that the President's commitment to national reconciliation and the inclusion of proposals by a task force are steps towards realizing their goal of an independent electoral commission. Chadema, CUF, and ACT-Wazalendo have all expressed their stances, with CUF emphasizing the importance of public opinion on the new constitution and ACT-Wazalendo highlighting the need to address proposed legal reforms within the year. The timeline for the Registrar of Political Parties to meet with the council of political parties is unclear, but there is anticipation that it may happen soon following President Samia's emphasis.

CHADEMA, Tanzania's main opposition party, has started receiving government subsidies after previously boycotting them due to alleged election irregularities in 2020. The party's leadership has been hesitant to confirm this change publicly, but Vice Chairman Tundu Lissu revealed the acceptance of funds during an online discussion. The move has sparked mixed reactions, with some attributing it to the new political direction under President Samia Suluhu Hassan's administration, which emphasizes unity and reconciliation. The party is also set to host President Hassan at an International Women's Day event.

Tanzania has launched its first public legal education campaign, spearheaded by the Minister of Constitution and Law, Damasi Ndumaro. The campaign aims to provide free legal aid across both mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar, focusing on issues such as gender-based violence, land ownership rights, alternative dispute resolution, and human rights. Civil society organizations and the government are collaborating to reach a broader audience, with over 4,900 community-level legal aid providers already trained. The initiative is expected to significantly enhance legal awareness and access to justice, especially in rural areas.

Anna Pinuni, the wife of missing journalist Azory Gwanda from Mwananchi Communications Limited, expressed her sorrow at receiving an award on behalf of her husband, who disappeared under mysterious circumstances. Azory was honored with the Daudi Mwangosi award by the Union of Tanzanian Press Clubs for his fearless reporting on brutal killings. Despite her grief, Anna finds hope and strength in the recognition of Azory's work. She recalls Azory's passion for journalism and hopes for his return, while also calling on authorities, including the President and the Minister of Home Affairs, to help find her husband.

The African Inland Church of Tanzania (AICT) expressed hope for justice in the death of choir member Miriam Charles, leaving the matter to the police. Senior Pastor Elisha Isebuka thanked the police for arresting suspect Frank Magalu, who was apprehended at a guest house in Dar es Salaam. Magalu, who was planning to marry Charles, allegedly killed her and later attempted suicide. The Temeke regional police are handling the investigation, with Magalu currently receiving treatment after his suicide attempt.

109 Tanzanian fishermen detained in Kenya for alleged illegal fishing in the Indian Ocean have been released on bail. The Tanzanian government intervened, holding talks with Kenyan officials to secure their release. The fishermen were initially held at the Kadhi Court in Kwale, Kenya, after failing to pay bail. Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Dr. Susan Kolimba, confirmed their return but provided no further details, stating that discussions between the two governments are ongoing.

Home Affairs Minister Mwigulu Nchemba announced that Tanzania will not hire foreign investigators for the shooting of MP Tundu Lissu, asserting the country's capability to handle the investigation. Opposition party Chadema and various legal organizations have called for independent foreign investigators, citing concerns over local security organs' impartiality. The shooting incident, which occurred on September 7, left Lissu seriously wounded and has led to calls for a thorough and independent investigation.

12,000 Burundian refugees have agreed to be repatriated following extensive discussions among Tanzania, Burundi, and the UN. The talks, held in Dar es Salaam, involved Tanzania's Home Affairs minister Mwigulu Nchemba, Burundi's Home Affairs minister Pascal Barandagiye, and UN representative Chansa Kipaya. The repatriation will involve refugees who have voluntarily chosen to return to Burundi.