18th May 2026
Source: The Guardian
ZANZIBAR SEEKS STRONGER UK PARTNERSHIP TO UNLOCK BLUE ECONOMY INVESTMENT
The Zanzibar government has stepped up efforts to strengthen economic diplomacy and attract strategic investment in the blue economy as part of broader plans to create jobs, expand exports, and accelerate economic growth across the Isles.
The initiative was highlighted during discussions between Zanzibar’s Minister for Blue Economy and Fisheries, Ali Mohamed Masoud, and the British High Commissioner to Tanzania, Marianne Young, held at the ministry’s offices in Maisara.
During the meeting, Hon. Masoud described the blue economy as a strategic pillar of Zanzibar’s long-term development agenda, emphasizing its importance in supporting livelihoods and driving economic transformation. He noted that stronger international partnerships and increased investment are necessary to unlock sustainable growth and improve living standards for coastal communities.
The minister further stated that the government has already made progress in supporting marine entrepreneurs and improving the business environment within the sector.
However, he stressed that additional investment is still needed in key areas such as deep-sea fishing, marine product processing, and modern maritime infrastructure to fully realise the sector’s economic potential.
Source: The Guardian
GOVERNMENT REAFFIRMS SUPPORT FOR PRIVATE SECTOR GROWTH
The government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Tanzania’s private sector by fostering a business environment that supports investment, innovation, and competitiveness in regional and global markets.
The assurance was given by the Minister of Information, Communication and Information Technology, Hon. Angela Kairuki, while attending the Africa CEO Forum 2026 in Kigali, Rwanda. During the event, she witnessed the signing of a financing partnership valued at more than TZS 40 billion aimed at expanding financial access for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) across Tanzania.
The agreement brings together British International Investment and NBC Bank, in which the government holds a 30% stake. Officials described the partnership as an important step toward deepening financial inclusion and strengthening entrepreneurship.
The five-year financing arrangement is expected to provide long-term capital to support business expansion, improve resilience, and enhance the competitiveness of Tanzanian enterprises in productive sectors. MSMEs are also expected to gain better access to domestic and international trade finance, enabling stronger participation in cross-border trade activities.
Hon. Kairuki emphasized that improving access to finance remains critical for unlocking the potential of small businesses, which continue to play a major role in employment creation and economic growth in Tanzania.
Source: Daily News
GOVERNMENT PLANS TO REPEAL CONFISCATION LAW OVER ABUSE CONCERNS
The government has announced plans to repeal laws related to property confiscation following growing concerns that some officials have been abusing the provisions to unlawfully seize citizens’ property.
Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba disclosed the move while addressing residents at Kambi ya Nyasa in Chemba District, Dodoma Region. He said the decision follows numerous complaints from residents in Kondoa and Chemba regarding incidents where motorcycles, livestock, machinery, and other property were allegedly confiscated for offences that should only have resulted in monetary fines.
According to the Prime Minister, the government considers the existing confiscation framework vulnerable to misuse by certain authorities. He noted that directives on the matter have already been issued by President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
Hon. Nchemba emphasized that repealing the law is intended to close loopholes that enable abuse of power and to strengthen protection of citizens against unjust deprivation of property.
Source: Daily News
GOVERNMENT STRENGTHENS COMPETITION POLICIES TO IMPROVE INVESTMENT CLIMATE
Tanzania has continued to strengthen fair competition policies and improve its investment environment as part of wider efforts to support economic growth and attract both domestic and foreign investment.
Speaking during the Tanzania Competition Law and Investors Conference in Dar es Salaam, the Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry and Trade, Aristides Mbwasi, said the country is experiencing strong economic performance driven by industrial expansion and increasing participation in regional and international markets.
Mr. Mbwasi emphasized that sustainable growth must go hand in hand with accountability, fair business practices, and inclusive economic participation. He noted that maintaining a competitive market environment is essential to ensuring that the benefits of economic growth are broadly shared, particularly among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
He further stated that Tanzania’s expanding economy and deeper integration into global markets require stronger competition frameworks to safeguard equal opportunities for businesses and encourage investor confidence.
Meanwhile, Fair Competition Commission Chairperson Aggrey Mlimuka, described the conference as an important platform for advancing dialogue on competition policy, investment, and market regulation in Tanzania and across Africa.
19th May 2026
Source: Daily News
COURT DISMISSES SAHARA MEDIA STAY APPLICATION
The Court of Appeal has dismissed an application filed by Star Media (Tanzania) Limited seeking to halt enforcement of a decision requiring the company to pay TZS 6.4 billion in taxes to the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA).
In the ruling, Amour H. R. Hamis held that the Court lacked jurisdiction to determine the matter because the application had been filed without a properly instituted appeal before the Court.
The company had requested a stay of execution of the decision issued by the Tax Revenue Appeals Tribunal (TRAT) on March 23, 2022, pending determination of its application for extension of time to file a notice of appeal.
According to an affidavit sworn by Chen Chen, the company discovered through bank statements that CRDB Bank Plc had already deducted TZS 400 million from its account on April 26, 2025, and remitted the funds to TRA.
The company argued that continued deductions would cause irreparable financial harm and severely disrupt business operations, including the payment of employee salaries. It also expressed willingness to provide security through a bond pending the outcome of the proceedings.
However, Justice Hamis emphasized that under established legal principles, the jurisdiction of the Court of Appeal is ordinarily invoked through the filing of a notice of appeal, which had not been filed in this case.
Source: Daily News
MAT DISMISSES CLAIMS OVER DOCTORS’ DIRECT CONSULTATION PAYMENTS
The Medical Association of Tanzania (MAT) has rejected allegations that doctors in public hospitals receive consultation fees directly from patients, clarifying that all payments are handled exclusively through official government systems.
Speaking in Dodoma, Dr. Mugisha Nkoronko said the claims circulating in public discussions are misleading and risk damaging trust in healthcare professionals.
He emphasized that all patient payments are processed through government-approved control number systems, with no cash transactions handled by individual doctors in public health facilities. According to him, the collected revenue is directed back into improving hospital and health center services.
The clarification follows parliamentary debates on the Ministry of Health budget, where lawmakers raised concerns about upfront consultation fees and their impact on low-income patients. MPs, including Mr. Mwita Waitara and Mr. Mwila Getere, argued that such charges may discourage citizens from seeking timely medical care.
Source: The Citizen
ZANZIBAR LAWMAKERS RAISE CONCERNS OVER AGRICULTURAL PERFORMANCE AND IMPORT DEPENDENCY
Members of the House of Representatives in Zanzibar have expressed concern over the effectiveness of the island’s agricultural programmes, questioning whether current strategies are delivering meaningful results despite sustained public investment.
The debate arose during discussions on the proposed budget of TZS 81.8 billion for the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, Natural Resources, and Livestock for the 2026/27 financial year. Lawmakers noted that Zanzibar continues to depend heavily on imported food, raising doubts about the impact of ongoing agricultural reforms.
Presenting the budget, the responsible minister, Hon. Suleiman Masoud Makame, said the allocation will support ten development projects aimed at improving productivity, sustainability, and food security across the islands.
The proposed funding includes TZS 12.4 billion allocated as subsidies for key agricultural institutions, including the Agricultural and Livestock Research Institute and the Government Agency for Tractor and Agricultural Equipment Services. Of the TZS 14.5 billion set aside for development projects, TZS 8.65 billion will come from the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar, with the remainder expected from development partners.
During deliberations, members of the House urged greater investment in modern farming technologies and scientific agricultural methods to reduce import dependence and strengthen local food production systems.
20th May 2026
Source: Daily News
TBS EXPANDS ZONAL METROLOGY SERVICES TO BOOST STANDARDS AND COMPETITIVENESS
The Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) has expanded metrology services to the Southern Highlands, a move aimed at improving service delivery, strengthening consumer protection, and enhancing the competitiveness of local products across the country.
The development was announced during a workshop focused on strengthening collaboration between TBS and local government authorities. The meeting brought together stakeholders to review progress on joint efforts to improve standards enforcement and widen access to quality assurance services.
The opening remarks were delivered on behalf of the Director General, Ashura Katunzi, by the Director of Human Resources and Administration at TBS, Mr. Junius Lwenje.
Mr. Lwenje described the rollout of zonal metrology services as a major step toward bringing quality assurance closer to users. He noted that decentralising these services will reduce both time and costs for businesses and individuals, while improving compliance with national standards and boosting the competitiveness of Tanzanian goods in domestic and regional markets.
He further encouraged stakeholders to fully utilize the services, stating that the expansion of zonal offices marks the beginning of stronger cooperation between TBS, local authorities, and development partners in ensuring accurate and reliable measurement systems nationwide.
Source: Daily News
TRA TO LAUNCH MASTER’S PROGRAMME TO ADVANCE TAXATION EXPERTISE
The Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), through its Institute of Tax Administration (ITA), is set to introduce a master’s degree in taxation aimed at strengthening professional capacity and responding to evolving demands in the tax and fiscal environment.
The announcement was made in Dar es Salaam during a stakeholders’ consultative meeting by Dr. Lewis Ishemoi, speaking on behalf of the ITA Rector, Mr. Isaya Jairo.
He explained that the programme is designed to bring together input from experts across sectors to ensure the curriculum reflects real-world taxation and industry requirements. The course will be developed under the Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) framework, focusing on both theoretical grounding and practical application of tax principles.
According to ITA Head of Postgraduate Studies, Mr. Praygod Chao, the programme seeks to address skill gaps in auditing firms, tax consultancy, and related institutions. It is expected to enhance professional expertise, improve tax compliance, and strengthen efficiency in tax advisory services across both public and private sectors.
21st May 2026
Source: The Guardian
TISEZA ENGAGES TRADITIONAL LEADERS TO BOOST LOCAL INVESTMENT DRIVE
The Tanzania Investment and Special Economic Zones Authority (TISEZA) has rolled out a capacity-building and sensitisation programme for traditional chiefs and cultural leaders in the Rukwa Region, aimed at strengthening their role in attracting investment and supporting local economic development.
The initiative is part of broader efforts to advance the country’s development agenda under Vision 2025/2050, with a focus on sustainable growth driven by inclusive and productive investments.
Speaking during a regional convention that brought together traditional leaders from across Rukwa, Mr. Fidelis Obanga said collaboration between government institutions, investment agencies, and traditional leadership is essential for creating an enabling and investor-friendly environment that benefits local communities.
He emphasized that traditional leaders hold strong influence at community level, placing them in a strategic position to promote awareness of investment opportunities and encourage constructive engagement between citizens and investors.
Mr. Obanga added that empowering chiefs with knowledge of investment systems and frameworks will help bridge communication gaps, improve community participation, and accelerate grassroots development outcomes across the region.
Source: The Guardian
ZRA SEEKS STRONGER COOPERATION WITH GOVERNMENT AND TRADERS TO IMPROVE TAX SYSTEM
The Zanzibar Revenue Authority (ZRA) has reiterated its commitment to working closely with government institutions and stakeholders to address operational challenges facing business operators, enhance compliance, and support overall business growth.
During an official visit to large taxpayers across the islands, Commissioner General Said Kiondo Athumani said strong business performance remains a key driver of national revenue collection and economic development.
He acknowledged the important role traders play in supporting Zanzibar’s economy and assured continued engagement to help resolve bottlenecks affecting their operations. At the same time, he noted concerns that some businesses may be paying taxes that do not reflect their actual level of activity, stressing the need for fairness and accuracy in tax contributions.
He emphasized that while the authority is committed to supporting the business community, taxpayers must also comply fully with national tax laws and regulations to ensure a balanced and sustainable revenue system that benefits both the state and the private sector.
Source: The Citizen
PULA GROUP AND ARC FACE HIGH-STAKES GRAPHITE INVESTMENT DISPUTE IN COURT
A USD 195 million legal dispute involving major players in Tanzania’s graphite mining sector is currently being heard at the Commercial Division of the High Court, with proceedings continuing through witness testimony.
The case, filed in May 2023, involves allegations by Pula Group that African Rainbow Capital and associated entities breached a non-compete clause tied to a confidentiality agreement related to graphite mining projects in Tanzania.
Pula Group alleges that the respondents, including companies linked to South African businessman Patrice Motsepe, violated contractual obligations by investing in Australia-based Evolution Energy Minerals, which is developing a graphite project near Pula’s operations in Ruangwa District, Lindi Region.
At the core of the dispute is a two-year non-compete agreement signed in July 2019 between Pula Group and African Rainbow Minerals. Pula contends that the agreement was breached through delayed implementation and subsequent involvement in a competing project in the same geographic area.
During proceedings, High Court Judge Mirindo ruled that the matter could proceed based on existing evidence if ARC chose not to present additional witnesses, after which ARC’s legal team opted not to pursue that application further.
The case is expected to have wider implications for investment conduct, contract enforcement, and competition dynamics within Tanzania’s emerging graphite mining industry.
22th May 2026
Source: Daily News
ZRA REAFFIRMS SUPPORT FOR TRADERS TO STRENGTHEN TAX COMPLIANCE AND BUSINESS GROWTH
The Zanzibar Revenue Authority (ZRA) has reiterated its commitment to deepening cooperation with government institutions and key stakeholders to address challenges facing traders, improve compliance, and support sustainable business growth in the Isles.
During a recent engagement with taxpayers, Commissioner General Said Kiondo Athumani emphasized that a thriving business environment directly contributes to stronger domestic revenue collection.
He assured traders that ZRA will continue working closely with stakeholders to resolve tax-related concerns while fostering conditions that allow businesses to operate effectively and expand. At the same time, he raised concern that some traders may under-declare income, resulting in tax contributions that do not reflect actual business scale.
He stressed the importance of full compliance with tax laws to ensure fairness across the system and sustainable revenue growth for the government.
Business leaders welcomed the engagement, noting that continued dialogue between tax authorities and the private sector is essential for building trust. Humoud Nassor Al Rawahy commended the outreach, describing it as a positive gesture that strengthens confidence and cooperation between taxpayers and the authority.
Source: Daily News
KENYA PROPOSED TAX MOVE PUTS PRESSURE ON TANZANIA GLASS EXPORTS
KIOO Limited has raised concerns over a proposed 35% excise duty on glass bottles imported into Kenya from East African Community (EAC) member states, warning that the measure could disrupt regional trade flows and manufacturing supply chains.
The company’s General Manager, Vineet Verma, said the proposal threatens the firm’s export operations and weakens established trade arrangements under the EAC framework.
He noted that formal concerns have already been submitted to senior Tanzanian government officials, including the Minister for Industry and Trade, Judith Kapinga, the Minister for Finance, Khamis Mussa Omar, the Minister for Planning and Investment, Kitila Mkumbo, and the Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Mahmoud Thabit Kombo.
According to Mr. Verma, the proposed amendment would remove preferential treatment currently granted to glass bottles originating from EAC partner states, significantly increasing production and sourcing costs within the region.
He further argued that the move raises legal and economic concerns under the EAC Customs Union framework, particularly regarding the principle of free movement of goods among member states. The Kenyan Finance Bill 2026 reportedly includes the proposed removal of the existing excise duty exemption for EAC-sourced glass bottles.
Source: The Guardian
GOVERNMENT INITIATES REVIEW OF EDUCATION LAW TO MODERNISE SECTOR
The government has announced plans to review and strengthen the Education Act [Cap. 353] as part of wider reforms aimed at modernising Tanzania’s education system and aligning it with current and future development priorities.
The announcement was made in Dodoma by the Minister for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Adolf Mkenda, during a stakeholders’ consultation meeting.
He said the reforms are intended to strengthen the legal framework governing education while supporting the implementation of the newly introduced education policy. The review process is designed to ensure that updated laws reflect the evolving needs of the sector.
Prof. Mkenda added that the consultation is also meant to incorporate stakeholder input in addressing national priorities as well as global challenges, including technological advancement, skills development, and competitiveness in the labour market.
He noted that all recommendations gathered will be submitted to the Cabinet for consideration and will guide the next phase of legislative reform in the education sector.
