13th Apr 2026
Source: The Citizen
COURT UPHOLDS DEATH SENTENCE IN MURDER APPEAL
The Court of Appeal of Tanzania has dismissed an appeal filed by carpenter Alex Julius, thereby upholding the death sentence imposed for the murder of his partner, Ms. Kudura Hamis.
A three-judge panel comprising Justices Lugano Mwandambo, Abraham Mwampashi, and Lameck Mlacha ruled that the prosecution had proved its case beyond reasonable doubt based on strong and consistent circumstantial evidence.
In delivering the judgment, Justice Mwampashi stated that the court found no legal or procedural errors in the High Court decision after reviewing all grounds of appeal. The court also relied on unchallenged medical evidence showing that the deceased died from strangulation, confirming an unnatural death.
The judges further upheld the “last seen with the deceased” doctrine, noting that the appellant failed to provide a credible explanation of the victim’s final moments. They concluded that the evidence formed a complete chain pointing solely to the accused.
The conviction was originally made under Section 196 of the Penal Code, following testimony from eight witnesses and two exhibits related to the death of Ms. Kudura, who was last seen alive with the appellant on September 15, 2020.
Source: The Citizen
TANZANIA AND KENYA MOVE TO STRENGTHEN TRADE AND REGIONAL COOPERATION
Tanzania and Kenya are reinforcing their bilateral ties to deepen regional cooperation, with a focus on expanding trade, attracting investment, and supporting broader economic growth across East Africa.
During high-level consultations between the two countries’ Ministries of Foreign Affairs, officials reiterated their commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic relations and turning existing agreements into tangible results.
Samwel Shelukindo highlighted that the partnership remains strong and is anchored in shared interests, supported by mechanisms such as the Joint Cooperation Commission (JCC) and Joint Trade Committees (JTC).
The renewed engagement is expected to unlock new business opportunities, improve market access, and enhance regional development outcomes for both countries.
Source: The Guardian
GOVERNMENT EVALUATES FUEL LEVY RELIEF OPTIONS WITH CAUTION
The government has stated that it will take a measured and evidence-based approach before introducing any fuel levy waivers or subsidies, amid ongoing discussions on rising fuel prices.
Speaking in Chamwino, Mwigulu Nchemba emphasized that fiscal decisions must be carefully assessed to avoid destabilizing the economy or creating unintended market distortions.
He noted that although stakeholders have proposed measures such as tax reductions and removal of levies, premature action could worsen the situation or disproportionately benefit select groups. The Prime Minister stressed that current economic conditions require technical evaluation rather than reactive policy responses.
Dr. Nchemba added that the government is holding daily consultations with key sector actors to ensure stable fuel supply and prevent artificial shortages. He also warned that some external recommendations may be influenced by hidden interests rather than national priorities.
Source: Daily News
DIGITAL SYSTEM TO BOOST PROCUREMENT TRANSPARENCY IN TANZANIA
The Public Procurement Appeals Authority has announced the introduction of a new digital module under the National e-Procurement System of Tanzania aimed at strengthening transparency, accountability, and efficiency in public procurement processes.
Speaking at the launch of the National Supply Chain Management Policy 2025 in Dodoma, James Sando said the system will connect suppliers with procuring entities and improve the handling of procurement disputes and appeals.
He explained that the module will enable faster and fairer decision-making, supporting timely implementation of government projects while reducing delays in procurement processes.
Mr. Sando further noted that the system will lower operational costs, improve record management, and save time in processing public tender appeals. He emphasized that PPAA’s continued role in shaping procurement laws and regulations remains central to strengthening governance in the public supply chain.
14th Apr 2026
Source: The Citizen
ANTI-DRUGS AUTHORITY SEIZES NEARLY TWO TONNES OF NARCOTICS
Tanzania’s anti-narcotics authorities have seized nearly two tonnes of illicit drugs in March, alongside destroying cannabis farms and arresting dozens of suspects in a nationwide crackdown.
According to Aretas Lymo of the Drug Control and Enforcement Authority, officers confiscated 1,983.31 kilogrammes of narcotic substances during the operations. Authorities also seized 3,012.5 kilogrammes and 17,960 litres of precursor chemicals used in drug production, as well as 286 tablets and 1,001 bottles of controlled medicinal drugs.
The enforcement actions led to the destruction of 55.5 acres of cannabis farms and the arrest of 77 suspects linked to drug-related offences. Additionally, nine vehicles, 12 motorcycles, and one three-wheeled vehicle believed to have been used in trafficking were impounded.
Mr. Lymo attributed the increased seizures to intensified operations, particularly in rural areas, following progress in dismantling organized drug networks. In Dar es Salaam, authorities intercepted 101.2Kg of mirungi hidden in a passenger bus at Tegeta Kibo, with five suspects-including the driver and conductor-arrested as investigations continue.
The crackdown underscores the government’s strengthened efforts to combat evolving drug trafficking patterns and enhance national security.
Source: The Citizen
WEAK SYSTEMS UNDERMINE NON-TAX REVENUE COLLECTION
A performance audit has revealed that Tanzania is losing billions of shillings in potential revenue from fees, licences, and other non-tax sources due to weak systems, poor coordination, and limited enforcement.
The audit, conducted under the Public Audit Act, assessed non-tax revenue management by the Ministry of Finance Tanzania between 2021/22 and 2024/25. It found persistent underperformance despite ongoing reforms and efforts to digitalize revenue systems.
According to Charles Kichere, non-tax revenue contributes only 6 to 6.9% of the national budget-relatively low compared to Africa’s average of about 6.2% of GDP. In the 2023/24 fiscal year, collections reached TZS 3.9 trillion against a target of TZS 5 trillion, achieving just 77.8 %. Annual shortfalls over the past four years have ranged between TZS 0.5 trillion and TZS 1.1 trillion.
The audit also identified the informal sector as a major untapped source of revenue, noting that weak enforcement and fragmented systems have allowed many businesses to remain outside the revenue net.
The report calls for stronger institutional coordination, improved enforcement mechanisms, and better integration of revenue collection systems to enhance efficiency, accountability, and overall domestic resource mobilization.
Source: Daily News
TBS EXPANDS SERVICES WITH NEW COAST REGION OFFICE
The Tanzania Bureau of Standards has expanded its operations by opening a new office in the Coast Region, aiming to improve access to quality assurance services for over 1,700 industries in the area.
Speaking at the launch, Ritta Magere highlighted that the new office will enhance efficiency for manufacturers and producers while strengthening compliance with national quality standards. She noted that the move is expected to promote consumer safety and improve industrial performance across the region.
During the event, TBS issued 143 certificates and licences to manufacturers in the Eastern Zone, covering Coast, Morogoro, and Tanga regions. Ashura Katunzi emphasized that decentralizing services is part of the agency’s broader strategy to bring services closer to businesses and communities.
She added that the expansion will reduce the need for producers to travel long distances—especially to Dar es Salaam, thereby lowering operational costs and encouraging greater compliance with standards. The initiative is expected to support industrial growth while reinforcing consumer protection across Tanzania.
15th Apr 2026
Source: Daily News
TANZANIA CALLS FOR TECH PARTNERSHIPS TO ADDRESS POPULATION CHALLENGES
Tanzania has called for stronger international collaboration to harness technology and research in addressing population challenges and advancing sustainable development.
Speaking at the 59th session of the Commission on Population and Development in New York, Mohamed Mchengerwa emphasized the importance of partnerships that promote technology transfer, particularly to support developing countries facing evolving demographic pressures.
He noted that Tanzania is committed to working with global stakeholders to ensure that technological advancements deliver meaningful benefits for both current and future generations. The Minister also highlighted the country’s large youth population as a critical asset for economic growth, stressing that unlocking its potential is key to achieving inclusive development.
Population dynamics, he added, have already been integrated into national frameworks such as Development Vision 2050 and Third Five-Year Development Plan, aligning with broader global goals under the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Source: Daily News
CAG CALLS FOR KEY REFORMS TO STRENGTHEN PUBLIC FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
The Charles Kichere has issued a set of wide-ranging recommendations aimed at addressing persistent weaknesses in public financial management and improving the performance of government institutions.
The recommendations follow audit findings for the 2024/25 financial year, with a summary released by the National Audit Office of Tanzania after the tabling of the Annual General Reports in Parliament. The office confirmed that the reports are now publicly accessible to enhance parliamentary scrutiny and promote citizen oversight.
Mr. Kichere emphasized the need for all stakeholders within the accountability framework to fulfill their responsibilities in line with principles of transparency, accountability, and institutional integrity.
The recommendations are intended to strengthen governance systems, improve efficiency in the use of public resources, and build greater public trust in government institutions.
16th Apr 2026
Source: The Citizen
TRA ISSUES WARNING TO TAX EVADERS IN LAKE ZONE
The Tanzania Revenue Authority has issued a strong warning to tax evaders in the Lake Zone, emphasizing that enforcement measures will be intensified to ensure compliance.
Speaking during a meeting with taxpayers in Bunda District, Mara Region, Yusuph Mwenda cautioned that individuals and businesses attempting to evade taxes will face legal action. He stressed that tax evasion undermines fair competition and places an unfair burden on compliant taxpayers, urging the public to report offenders.
Mr. Mwenda also warned traders involved in smuggling activities through the Sirari border and other entry points, noting that authorities have stepped up efforts to curb illicit trade.
In addition, he issued a one-month ultimatum to a contractor handling a TRA office construction project in Sengerema, warning that delays could lead to sanctions, including a review of the firm’s eligibility for future contracts. Responding to the directive, Fred Chacha assured that the project would be completed within the required timeframe.
The move reflects TRA’s broader commitment to strengthening tax compliance, improving revenue collection, and promoting accountability across the business environment.
Source: The Citizen
CMA URGES COMPLIANCE WITH LABOUR LAWS TO PROTECT DOMESTIC WORKERS
The Commission for Mediation and Arbitration has called on employers to adhere to labour laws and proper procedures when engaging domestic workers, emphasizing the need to reduce disputes and improve workplace relations.
Speaking at a training session organized by the International Labour Organization, Usekelege Mpulla highlighted that domestic workers are fully protected under national labour laws and are entitled to the same legal safeguards as other employees. He stressed that a household is legally recognized as a workplace and must comply with established employment standards.
Mr. Mpulla further noted that domestic workers have the right to file complaints with the CMA in cases of rights violations. While ILO Convention No. 189 is still pending ratification, he emphasized that existing national laws already provide sufficient protection for domestic workers.
The initiative reflects ongoing efforts to promote fair labour practices, strengthen legal awareness, and ensure dignity and protection for domestic workers across Tanzania.
Source: Daily News
GOVERNMENT REVOKES 40 MINING LICENCES, RECLAIMS 188,163 ACRES
The Government has revoked 40 mineral prospecting licences after holders failed to comply with regulatory requirements, reclaiming approximately 188,163 acres of undeveloped land for potential reallocation.
Announcing the decision in Dodoma, Anthony Mavunde stated that the move targets non-compliant operators who have not fulfilled obligations such as developing licensed areas. The Mining Commission of Tanzania has also issued default notices to 43 additional licence holders, including 40 prospecting licences and three medium-scale mining licences.
Key violations cited include licence hoarding, non-payment of statutory fees, failure to meet local content requirements, and weak performance in corporate social responsibility (CSR) commitments.
Hon. Mavunde directed the Commission to intensify inspections and enforce compliance, emphasizing that licences should be revoked and reassigned if deficiencies are not addressed within 30 days. He further noted that the government is closely monitoring gold rush activities nationwide and will take action against persistently non-compliant operators.
The measures are part of broader efforts to ensure efficient resource utilization, strengthen sector governance, and maximize the economic benefits of Tanzania’s mineral wealth.
17th Apr 2026
Source: The Guardian
GOVERNMENT TO TABLE PUBLIC INVESTMENTS BILL IN 2026/27 FISCAL YEAR
The government plans to finalize and table the long-awaited Public Investments Bill in the 2026/2027 financial year, marking a major step toward overhauling the management and performance of state-owned institutions.
Presenting the ministry’s draft budget in Dodoma, Kitila Mkumbo, Minister of State for Planning and Investment, stated that the proposed law aims to strengthen accountability, efficiency, and the overall economic impact of public institutions in line with the country’s long-term development agenda under Vision 2050.
The Bill introduces a modern governance framework for public assets, including the establishment of a Public Investments Management Authority to coordinate government investments under a unified national strategy. This is expected to reduce inefficiencies and improve returns from state investments.
A central feature of the proposal is the creation of a Public Investments Fund, which will allow state-owned enterprises (SOEs) to mobilize capital independently of the Consolidated Fund. The government believes this approach will unlock new financing opportunities for industrial growth while maintaining fiscal stability and strengthening long-term economic resilience
Source: Daily News
COURT DISMISSES LAND CASE OVER LACK OF LEGAL STANDING
The High Court has reaffirmed that heirs who have not been formally appointed as legal administrators lack locus standi to institute legal proceedings concerning a deceased person’s property.
The ruling arose from Land Case No. 11429 of 2025, filed by Bukoba residents Wilbard Mwombeki and Patrick Mwombeki against the Tanzania National Roads Agency and the Attorney General of Tanzania.
The plaintiffs challenged a demolition notice concerning property in Bukoba Township, arguing that compensation had not been fully, fairly, or promptly paid despite allegations that the property encroached on a road reserve.
During a Preliminary Objection, State Attorney Nestory Lutambi argued that the court lacked jurisdiction, as the plaintiffs had no legal standing to sue over property belonging to their late father, John Mwombeki.
In his ruling, Ferdinand Kiwonde upheld this position, citing Court of Appeal precedents and emphasizing that heirs must first be legally recognized as administrators of an estate before initiating any proceedings. He stressed that without such formal appointment or inheritance, individuals lack the legal capacity to bring claims related to a deceased person’s property.
