Tanzania Digest

16/08/2024

⚠️ Mpox Clade I Detected in Sweden: First Case Outside Africa

Swedish officials have confirmed the first case of the more dangerous Mpox (monkeypox) clade I variant outside Africa.

On Thursday, the Swedish government announced the infection, which spreads through close contact.

This marks the first known case of the variant outside Africa, with more cases anticipated in the region.

WHO, which declared Mpox a global public health emergency on Wednesday, reported that 548 people have died from Mpox in the DR Congo this year amid outbreaks in several neighbouring countries.

14/08/2024

⚠️ JUST IN: Mpox Outbreak in Africa Prompts WHO Emergency Meeting: 15,000+ Cases Recorded

The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has declared a public health emergency due to the spreading Mpox (monkeypox) outbreak.

The World Health Organization (WHO) is expected to hold an emergency meeting today, August 14, 2024, to address the situation.

As of August 4, 2024, Africa has reported 38,465 Mpox cases and 1,456 deaths since January 2022.

Mpox spreads through close contact, causing rashes, flu-like symptoms, and pus-filled sores, and it can be particularly deadly for children, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems.

This year, over 15,000 Mpox cases and 461 deaths have been reported in Africa, marking a 160% increase.

14/08/2024

⚠️🔴 BREAKING: Japan's PM Kishida Announces Exit Following Party Scandal

Japan's Prime Minister, Fumio Kishida, announced he won't run for re-election as the leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), stating the party needs a "fresh start."

At 67, Kishida is expected to step down after the party elects a new leader in September.

His support has dropped due to a corruption scandal within his party, rising living costs, and a weakening yen. Last month, his approval ratings hit a decade-low of 15.5%.

Some LDP members question Kishida's ability to lead the party to victory in the 2025 general election. The LDP has been in power almost continuously since 1955.

🚨

10/08/2024

⚠️😲 REVEALED! Top 10 African Countries with the Highest Su***de Rates

Globally, 1 in 100 deaths is due to su***de. In 2019, 77% of su***des occurred in low- and middle-income countries.

According to the World Health Organization, 87.5 out of every 100,000 people die by su***de each year in Lesotho.

Lesotho, a nation governed by a monarchy, has the highest su***de rate in the world.

The Top 10 countries are:

1. Lesotho 🇱🇸
2. Eswatini 🇸🇿
3. Zimbabwe 🇿🇼
4. South Africa 🇿🇦
5. Mozambique 🇲🇿
6. Central African Republic 🇨🇫
7. Botswana 🇧🇼
8. Eritrea 🇪🇷
9. Cameroon 🇨🇲
10. Côte d’Ivoire 🇨🇮

***derate ***derates

10/08/2024

💪📊 TRA Surpasses July Collection Target by 104.4%

The Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) has announced that for July 2024, it collected TZS 2.34 trillion, surpassing the target of TZS 2.246 trillion by 104.4%.

This marks a 20% increase compared to the TZS 1.94 trillion collected in July of the previous financial year.

This is the highest monthly collection performance and growth TRA has achieved in the past six years.

🇹🇿

09/08/2024

🔴 Another $1.2 Billion of Claims Against the United Republic of Tanzania

Orca Energy Group Inc., through its 100% wholly-owned subsidiary, PanAfrican Energy, Tanzania (PAET), has filed a $1.2 billion claim against Tanzania over a gas field dispute under an investment treaty between Mauritius and Tanzania.

The claim involves alleged breaches of the Bilateral Investment Treaty and a contractual dispute with the Tanzanian government and TPDC.

The dispute focuses on the Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) and Gas Agreement (GA) involving the Government of Tanzania, TPDC, Songas Limited, and PAET.

The conflict centers on the Songo Songo Development License, granted to TPDC on October 11, 2001, for 25 years, ending on October 10, 2026.

Tanzania entered into agreements with PAET for foreign investment and expertise, which are now disputed.

24/07/2024

The removal of Nape Nnauye and January Makamba from their ministerial roles in Tanzania has stirred significant discussion about the reasons and implications behind these political maneuvers.
This political shakeup in Tanzania raises questions about the deeper motives and future implications.

What are the real reasons behind these shifts? Read here:

Nape Nnauye and January Makamba, key figures in Tanzanian politics, were dismissed, sparking debate about political integrity and influence.

23/07/2024

According to the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority, there has been a notable increase in the total number of registered telecommunications lines.

The count of both person-to-person (P2P) and machine-to-machine (M2M) lines escalated from 73.4 million at the close of the first quarter in March 2024 to 76.6 million by the end of June 2024, marking a growth of 4.3%.

22/07/2024

Tanzania has an estimated 230 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, with 57.5 trillion confirmed, ranking 82nd globally.

Natural gas from Songosongo Island and Msimbati currently powers electricity and industrial operations.

The Tanzania Natural Gas Utilisation Master Plan 2016-2045 outlines usage for electricity (8.8 trillion cubic feet), households (500 billion), industries (3.6 trillion), and vehicles (600 billion).

Main refilling stations include Ubungo (800 vehicles daily), Tazara (300 vehicles), and the Airport station (1,200 vehicles).

TPDC and private partners aim to add 30 gas refilling stations in Dar es Salaam, targeting areas like Muhimbili and Mbezi Beach.

01/07/2024

Domestic Debt of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) in Tanzania:

✅ As of the end of April 2024, state-owned enterprises (SOEs) in Tanzania held outstanding domestic debt totaling TZS 70.8 billion.

✅ This amount decreased by TZS 5.4 billion compared to the previous month.

✅ The decline was primarily due to reduced debt held by the Dar es Salaam Water and Sewerage Authority (DAWASA) and the Tanzania Railways Corporation.

✅ DAWASA remains the largest holder, with 67.5% of the stock.

26/06/2024

✅ In April 2024, the Government borrowed TZS 361.8 billion from the domestic debt market for budget financing purposes. 💰

✅ Of this amount, TZS 204.8 billion was raised through Treasury bonds and the remainder through Treasury bills.

✅ TZS 15 billion of the Treasury bonds was issued to the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar.

✅ Debt service payments for the month totalled TZS 482 billion, including TZS 249.8 billion in rolled-over principal and TZS 232.2 billion in interest payments.

25/06/2024

External Debt Service Reaches USD 300.1 Million in April 2024

✅ External debt stock at the end of April 2024 was USD 33,122.4 million, lower than the previous month due to net outflows. The central government owed the largest share at 72.5%.

✅ In April 2024, external loan disbursements amounted to USD 168.4 million, primarily to the central government.

✅ During the same period, external debt service was USD 300.1 million, with USD 196.4 million for principal payments and the balance for interest payments.

24/06/2024

Tax Collections Rise Year-on-Year Despite Missing Targets

✅ Provisional data for April 2024 indicates that domestic revenue—central and local government collections— totalled TZS 2,119 billion, equivalent to 94.1% of the monthly target .

✅ Of this amount, central government revenue was TZS 2,036.1 billion, with TZS 1,821.6 billion from tax collections and TZS 214.6 billion from non-tax revenue.

✅ While collections for all major tax categories were below targets , they were higher than the previous year’s collections

22/06/2024

Large-Scale Projects Propel Tanzania's Industry Growth

✅ The agriculture sector grew by 3.7% in 2023, up from 3.3% in 2022, due to improved technology, inputs, extension services, and a fertiliser subsidy program, leading to 124% food self-sufficiency in 2024.

✅ Industry grew by 8.4% in 2023, driven by infrastructure projects like the SGR and ATCL improvements. The sector is projected to grow by 8.2% in 2024 with the commissioning of the Julius Nyerere dam.

✅ The services sector is estimated to grow by 4.8% in 2024, up from 3.0% in 2023, supported by finance, insurance, transport, storage, and trade activities.

Source: EIU, Deloitte analysis

21/06/2024

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) raised the Central Bank Rate (CBR) from 5% to 6% in April 2024 to control inflation caused by the shilling's depreciation, maintaining the 7-day interbank cash market (IBCM) interest rate within the desired range.

Money supply growth slowed, with extended broad money supply (M3) growing by 10.9% in April 2024, down from 13.8% in the previous month.

Private sector credit growth remained strong at 17.6%, slightly higher than March's 16.8%.

20/06/2024

Recent debates on social media have highlighted the public's strong biases regarding high-profile r**e cases, with many confidently taking sides without firsthand knowledge of the events.

This controversy underscores the need for caution, as the complexities of such cases often go beyond the understanding of judgmental activists.

As more people weigh in on these sensitive matters, we must ask: how can we discern the truth amidst conflicting claims? Are we merely spectators in a high-stakes game of information manipulation?

Read more analysis here: https://www.digest.tz/r**e-allegations-a-deep-dive-into-power-dynamics-and-misconceptions/

16/06/2024

For years, nuclear energy has been touted as a clean, affordable power source, but high initial costs have been a significant barrier. However, new technologies may soon make nuclear plants more feasible, cost-effective and a reality for Africa.

Could Tanzania's energy future include affordable nuclear power?

Read an in-depth analysis here: https://www.digest.tz/eyes-out-is-nuclear-energy-tanzanias-future-for-power-needs/

15/06/2024

Meet Justin Mollel: Building Stronger Businesses Through Financial Expertise

With over 15 years of experience, Justin is a finance leader and business growth expert known for effective planning, forecasting, and innovative process improvements.

His expertise includes business performance management, financial reporting, risk and change management, auditing, and stakeholder management.

Justin effectively supervises multiple functions, delivering profitable growth strategies and ensuring smooth operations.

Recognized as a motivational leader, he manages high-performing teams and builds strong business relationships through excellent communication skills.

15/06/2024

Meet Dr. Mahmoud Alawi: Shaping the Future of Tanzanian Scholars

Dr. Mahmoud Abdulwahab Alawi @ Principal of the Karume Institute of Science and Technology in Zanzibar , holds a PhD in Computer Science (UKM), MSc in Communication Engineering (IIUM), and BSc in Computer Science (IIUM). His academic career includes significant research and publications.

His teaching includes academic guidance and administrative duties to strengthen the university's framework.

Dr. Alawi is recognized for his contributions to education in Zanzibar, addressing regional and global issues through research and supporting future professionals and scholars in Tanzania.

14/06/2024

Meet Japhet Justine: Driving Major Projects and Financial Growth in Tanzania

Japhet is a seasoned expert in Development Finance , managing a $34 billion sovereign debt portfolio at Tanzania's Ministry of Finance.

He has led organizational transformations at institutions like Tanzania Agricultural Development Bank and Tanzania Women's Bank.

Japhet secures funding for major projects like the Standard Gauge Railway and Julius Nyerere Hydropower Dam, enhancing Tanzania's credit rating to attract investment.

Dive Deeper into Japhet Justine's Role in Advancing Tanzania's Economy 👉 https://www.digest.tz/celebrating-brightest-minds-meet-the-19-visionary-leaders-shaping-tanzanias-future/

14/06/2024

Meet Godfrey Magila: Hackathon Winner to CEO, Leading the Way in Software Development and Cybersecurity

Godfrey Calvin Magila, CEO of Magilatech, is a self-taught programmer and cybersecurity expert.

At 23, he is recognized as a software developer and serves as a country expert for WSA and a Microsoft TOT for 4Africa. He uses technology for inclusion in Africa.

Godfrey created Tigo Backup, a biometric voting system, and Mobile Parliament. Magilatech provides security audits for government and private institutions.

His journey began with winning the Tanzania Hackathon, leading to Magilatech's founding. The company works with major telecoms in Africa and Asia, impacting millions and gaining recognition from Forbes Afrique and Startup World Africa.

14/06/2024

Meet Taha Jiwaji: Building Bridges Across Africa's Telecom Industry

Taha Jiwaji is a technology entrepreneur with experience in tech and telecom projects across Africa.

He founded a leading cloud communication provider in 25+ countries, partnering with over 60 mobile networks like Vodafone and MTN.

Taha built a customer base of 10,000+ clients, including Nestle and Samsung. His skills include business development, project management, and digital marketing.

He has spoken at ITW Africa, Africa Fintech in Zambia, and the Fintech Festival in Tanzania, demonstrating his industry expertise.

13/06/2024

Meet Heri Mwapachu: Leading Tanzanian Legal Expert in Global Finance

Heri Mwapachu is an associate in the London office of Latham & Watkins and a member of the Capital Markets Practice and Corporate Department.

Heri advises clients on corporate transactions, primarily representing issuers and investment banks in connection with debt and equity offerings.

Prior to joining Latham, Mr. Mwapachu completed an LLM at Harvard Law School and was an associate at a leading law firm in Tanzania focusing on capital markets, mergers and acquisitions, banking and finance and general corporate practice.

13/06/2024

Meet Deus Valentine: Leading the Fight for Social Justice in East Africa

Deus is the Co-Founder & CEO of the Centre for Strategic Litigation and a social justice activist, researcher, and advisor.

With over a decade of experience promoting social justice in Eastern Africa, he co-founded CSL in 2018 to address impunity and human rights violations in Tanzania.

Deus's mission at CSL is to promote justice for all and the rule of law as essential pillars of a democratic state, empowering citizens to advance their fundamental rights and freedoms.

13/06/2024

Meet Rebeca Gyumi: Championing Girls' Education in Tanzania

Rebeca Gyumi is the Founder & Executive Director of Msichana Initiative, a Tanzanian NGO dedicated to empowering girls through education. With over 8 years of experience at Femina, a youth-focused organization, Rebeca has made significant strides in advocacy and leadership.

A lawyer by profession, Rebeca's exceptional work has earned her the UN Human Rights Prize (2018), the UNICEF Global Goals Award (2016), and the UNFPA Award for Leadership (2019).

Passionate about girls' and women's empowerment, Rebeca advocates for safe schools and quality education in Tanzania, sharing her insights at national and international forums.

13/06/2024

Meet Jumaa Aweso: Leading the Charge for Sustainable Water Solutions in Tanzania

Jumaa Aweso is a Tanzanian politician and has been a Member of Parliament for the Pangani Constituency in Tanga Region since 2015. He is the current Minister for Water and Irrigation.

His tenure focuses on improving service efficiency and infrastructure for sustainable water resources, which are crucial for environmental, public health, and economic stability in Tanzania.

As the Minister of Water, Aweso oversees water management policies to enhance access, quality, and sustainability in Tanzania’s rural and urban areas.

His role has allowed him to influence national policy, especially in community development and infrastructure.

13/06/2024

Meet Jokate Mwegelo: Award-Winning Leader Driving Social Change

Jokate Mwegelo, is now Secretary General of Chama cha Mapinduzi's Youth Wing. She has served in different District Commissioner positions since 2018.

Jokate tackles education, health, food security, and economic empowerment for youths, girls, and women.

She has received several awards, including the Leadership Excellence Award, EAC Women Leadership Award, and Top 50 Most Influential African Women.

Her 'Tokomeza Zero' campaign raised $500,000 to build a girls' boarding school and improve education performance.

13/06/2024

Meet Hon. Ummy Nderiananga: Leading Change for Disability Inclusion

Hon. Ummy Nderiananga is the Deputy Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office for Policy, Parliament, and Coordination (PMO–PPC). She formerly chaired SHIVYAWATA, the federation of associations for persons with disabilities (PWDs).

As a person with a physical disability, Nderiananga is a prominent advocate for PWDs' rights and inclusion in Tanzania. She leads numerous high-caliber individuals in the civil service.

Her dedication to promoting PWDs' rights and her leadership in various ministerial roles have significantly impacted Tanzanian politics and community development.

12/06/2024

Meet Dr. Nyambura Moremi: Setting New Standards in Tanzanian Public Health

Dr. Nyambura, a passionate microbiologist and public health advocate from Tanzania, excelled academically, earning top honors at Weill Bugando University College of Health and Allied Sciences.

As the Director of the National Public Health Laboratory, she leads initiatives to maintain quality standards and has spearheaded projects, resulting in over 45 publications in scientific journals.

Dr. Moremi's dedication and significant contributions to public health continue to inspire and make a lasting impact in Tanzania.

Like & share to Congratulate Dr. Nyambura on her great work! 👏

12/06/2024

Meet Raphael Maganga: A Leader in Tanzania’s Private Sector Development

Raphael Maganga, CEO of Tanzania Private Sector Foundation (TPSF), promotes and develops the private sector in Tanzania, advocating for supportive business policies.

Under his leadership, TPSF fosters public-private partnerships, ensuring business stakeholders' voices are heard in policy formulation and implementation, focusing on innovation and sustainable development.

Maganga improves business conditions and attracts investment, addressing finance access and regulatory challenges.

He supports SMEs, crucial for job creation and economic diversification, engaging stakeholders for Tanzania's economic future.