Mkurugenzi wa Bodi ya Utalii Tanzania Ephraim Balozi Mafuru kwa niaba ya Katibu Mkuu Wizara ya Maliasili na Utalii ameongoza timu ya wizara hiyo kwenye kikao cha kimkakati na viongozi wa wizara ya Utalii kutoka Jamhuri ya Zambia huku Mamlaka ya Hifadhi ya Ngorongoro ikijinasibu kwa upekee  wa vivutio vya utalii vilivyopo katika hifadhi hiyo ambapo asili, urithi na maajabu yanakutana eneo moja.

Mkurugenzi Mafuru ameeleza ujumbe huo kuimarika kwa ushirikiano kati ya Tanzania na Zambia kutokana na juhudi kubwa zilizofanywa na Waasisi wa Tanzania na Zambia kuunganisha mshikamano wa kiuchumi na kijamii.

Mafuru amesema Tanzania inasonga mbele katika sekta ya utalii kutokana na kuimarisha  uhifadhi,miundombinu ya utalii pamoja na utafutaji wa masoko ya kimkakati ndani na nje ya nchi.

Akitoa wasilisho la Mamlaka ya Hifadhi  ya Ngorongoro Afisa Masoko Mwandamizi Selestine Saitabau alisema Ngorongoro ni kama kikapu cha zawadi ambapo kimebeba vivutio vingi kuanzia historia ya chimbuko la binadamu, wanyamapori, mazalia ya Nyumbu, mchanga unaohama, misitu, ndege, hali ya hewa ya kuvutia na uoto wa asili wenye mandhari yanayonawirisha ikolojia ya Ngorongoro, Serengeti hadi Masai Mara.

Kamishna wa Uhifadhi wa Mamlaka ya Hifadhi ya Ngorongoro Bw. Abdul-Razaq Badru aliwashukuru wageni hao wakiongozwa na Naibu Katibu Mkuu Kiongozi na katibu Mkuu wa wizara ya Utalii Zambia na kuwaeleza kuwa Ngorongoro ina sifa zote za kuwa Bustani ya Eden na kuwahakikishia wageni hao kuwa wamerudi nyumbani kwenye asili ya Mababu zao wa takriban miaka zaidi ya milioni 3 iliyopita.

 

Arusha. The Government has called on directors of companies with minority public shareholding to ensure their leadership delivers measurable value to both the State and citizens, as the Minority Interest Forum 2026 (MIF 2026) concluded in Arusha.

Closing the three-day forum on March 18, 2026, the Deputy Minister in the President’s Office – Planning and Investment, Hon. Dr. Pius Chaya (MP), emphasized the need for a results-driven approach in managing companies where the Government holds minority stakes.

“The expectation is clear—every Minority Interest Company must generate measurable value for the Government and the citizens at large,” he said.

Dr. Chaya stressed that directors must go beyond routine oversight and ensure that each company contributes meaningfully to national development, warning that public investments cannot afford to underperform amid the country’s growing economic ambitions.

“Leadership decisions must be anchored in accountability and performance,” he added.

He further urged directors to safeguard public equity by not only protecting its value but also ensuring it is consistently enhanced. This includes taking deliberate measures to prevent dilution of Government shareholding and strengthening its strategic position within these companies.

Highlighting the broader significance of public investments, Dr. Chaya noted:

“Government investments are not merely shares in companies; they are shares in the future of our Nation.”

He added: “Our collective responsibility is to ensure that these companies become strong engines of growth, innovation, and prosperity for Tanzania.”

Dr. Chaya also reminded directors that their responsibilities extend beyond corporate governance to stewardship of national interests.

“As Directors, you are entrusted not only with corporate oversight, but with the stewardship of national investments. The decisions you make must create value for the people,” he said.

The forum, which brought together directors, chief executives, policymakers, and experts, provided a platform to reflect on governance challenges and align strategies to improve the performance of Minority Interest Companies.

Dr. Chaya urged participants to translate discussions into concrete actions.

“Let this Forum not be remembered merely as a gathering of stakeholders, but as the moment we collectively committed ourselves to unlocking the full strategic value of Tanzania’s investments in Minority Interest Companies,” he said.

Earlier, Treasury Registrar Mr. Nehemiah Mchechu underscored the importance of strategic discipline and accountability in managing government minority interests, noting that the forum plays a critical role in strengthening leadership effectiveness and corporate governance.

“We remain committed to ensuring that companies with Government minority shareholding operate efficiently, deliver sustainable returns, and contribute meaningfully to the country’s long-term development agenda,” he said.

Mr. Mchechu added that such engagements equip directors and executives with the insights needed to navigate emerging challenges, embrace innovation, and align their strategies with national priorities.

The Minority Interest Forum 2026 was organized by the Office of the Treasury Registrar as part of ongoing efforts to enhance oversight, governance, and performance of companies in which the Government holds minority shares.

Airtel Tanzania Board Chair Mr. Eliud Sanga commended the initiative, describing the forum as a catalyst for improving operations in minority interest companies.

“We use this forum as a platform for the exchange of ideas, experience, and expertise,” he said.

Similarly, the Chairperson of Tanzania Pharmaceutical Industries, Dr. Mosses Mwizarubi, highlighted the strategic importance of entities under the Office of the Treasury Registrar.

“These entities are key to helping Tanzania attain a $1 trillion economy by 2050. With forums like this organised by the OTR, they will be in an even stronger position,” he noted.

Mr. Godfrey Kitundu, a Board Director at ALAF Tanzania, echoed the sentiment, describing the forum as a vital platform for boosting productivity.

“The Minority Interest Forum is an important tool for increasing the productivity of entities under the watch of the OTR,” he said.

The government has introduced eight key strategic directives aimed at enhancing the performance of companies in which it holds minority shares, as part of broader efforts to accelerate Tanzania’s transition to an upper-middle-income economy under the national development framework, 'Dira 2050'.

The ambitious long-term vision seeks to expand the country’s economy from approximately $85 billion to $1 trillion by 2050. Achieving this target will require stronger returns from public investments, particularly from minority interest companies where the government plays a partial ownership role.

Driving Performance Through Strategy and Governance

Speaking at the opening of the three-day Minority Interest Directors Forum 2026 (MIF 2026) in Arusha, the Minister for Finance, Khamis Mussa Omar, emphasized that the directives are designed to ensure these companies operate with greater strategic focus, transparency, and profitability.

He underscored the importance of aligning corporate strategies with national development priorities and global economic trends, enabling companies to remain competitive while supporting inclusive economic growth.

The minister also called for increased adoption of technology to enhance transparency, strengthen governance systems, and build public trust.

A Shift Toward Forward-Looking Leadership

A central theme of the directives is the need for forward-looking leadership. Boards and executive teams are urged to anticipate risks, respond proactively to emerging opportunities, and adapt to the demands of an increasingly competitive global economy.

The government is also encouraging stronger collaboration among companies to facilitate knowledge sharing, unlock new business opportunities, and generate collective impact.

At the same time, reinforcing governance frameworks grounded in accountability, transparency, and ethical leadership remains a top priority to ensure public investments deliver sustainable returns.

Focus on Results and Data-Driven Decision Making

Companies have been urged to adopt performance-driven strategies that enhance operational efficiency, improve profitability, and maximize value for both shareholders and the government.

The minister highlighted the importance of strengthening economic and competitive intelligence, noting that informed decision-making based on reliable data and market insights is critical for improving productivity and maintaining competitiveness in both regional and international markets.

Strengthening Public-Private Partnerships

The government reaffirmed its commitment to fostering stronger collaboration with the private sector, recognizing it as a key driver of investment and national development.

Under 'Dira 2050', the government aims to increase the contribution of non-tax revenue to the national budget from 3 percent to 10 percent within five years — equivalent to approximately Sh5 trillion annually.

“This calls for a deliberate shift in mindset and operational approaches — from traditional oversight to foresight-driven leadership that prioritizes innovation, agility, and anticipation,” the minister noted.

He added that optimizing investments in minority interest companies will be essential to achieving maximum financial and economic returns.

Leadership Accountability and Institutional Transformation

The minister challenged directors and executives to embrace change and take full responsibility for improving performance and ensuring long-term sustainability.

“We must move beyond conventional boardroom practices and adopt proactive approaches to identifying challenges and implementing sustainable solutions,” he said, urging leaders to develop actionable strategies that will enhance competitiveness and long-term value creation.

Government Commitment to Business Environment Reforms

The Permanent Secretary in the President’s Office responsible for Investment, Fred Msemwa, reiterated the government’s commitment to improving the business environment through policy and legal reforms.

He emphasized that a strong private sector is critical to achieving the goals of 'Dira 2050'.

 A Platform for Strategic Dialogue

In his opening remarks, Treasury Registrar Nehemiah Mchechu described the forum — now in its third edition since its launch in 2024 — as a vital platform for dialogue on governance, performance, and the strategic role of minority interest companies in Tanzania’s economic transformation.

The theme of this year’s forum, “From Oversight to Foresight: Advancing Agile and Innovative Leadership under Transformation Pressures,” highlights the need for leaders to move beyond traditional supervisory roles and embrace forward-thinking, adaptive leadership.

“In today’s rapidly evolving economic and technological environment, leadership must not only manage the present but also anticipate the future,” he said.

Growing Impact of Minority Interest Companies

Mchechu noted that government investment in minority interest companies has grown significantly over the past five years, rising from Sh821 billion to approximately Sh3.6 trillion — a clear indication of increasing confidence in public-private partnerships.

Dividend contributions have also surged by 357 percent over the same period, from Sh58 billion to Sh266 billion.

The MIF 2026 forum has brought together around 200 participants, including board directors, chief executive officers, policymakers, and experts from within and outside Tanzania.

Discussions are focused on strengthening governance, enhancing performance, and ensuring that minority interest companies play a more impactful role in driving Tanzania’s sustainable economic development.

As Tanzania advances toward its *Dira 2050* goals, the success of these companies will be critical in shaping a resilient, competitive, and innovation-driven economy.

 

Arusha, Tanzania, March 16, 2026 — The East African Legislative Assembly has marked a historic milestone after nine Members of Parliament from the Federal Republic of Somalia were officially sworn in during a special hybrid sitting held in Arusha.

The oath-taking ceremony, presided over by Speaker Joseph Ntakirutimana, formally integrates Somalia’s representatives into the Assembly, signaling the country’s full participation in the legislative arm of the East African Community.

The newly sworn-in members are Ilham Ali Gassar, Abdirahman Bashir Shariff, Zahra Ali Hassan, Faisal Abdi Roble, Faduma Abdullahi Mohamud, Fahma Ahmed Nur, Hussein Hassan Abdi, Abdusalam Hadliye Omar, and Abukar Abdi Osman.

In addition, three ministers responsible for East African Community Affairs from United Republic of Tanzania, Republic of Rwanda, and Somalia were sworn in as ex-officio members of the Assembly without voting rights, in accordance with EALA Rules of Procedure.

Those ministers include Mahmoud Thabit Kombo of Tanzania, Ali Mohamed Omar of Somalia, and Yusta Kaitesi of Rwanda. The minister from the Democratic Republic of Congo was not present and will take the oath at a later date.

Speaking on behalf of the Somali delegation, Abdusalam Hadliye Omar expressed appreciation for the milestone and reaffirmed their commitment to the EAC Treaty, its principles, and the welfare of East African citizens. He emphasized Somalia’s readiness to fulfill its responsibilities within the regional bloc.

Ali Mohamed Omar, Somalia’s minister responsible for EAC Affairs, described the moment as both an honor and a duty, stating that Somalia is committed to advancing regional integration and promoting “African solutions to African problems” in pursuit of shared prosperity and stability.

Yuta Kayetesi of Rwanda also pledged to uphold the rule of law and act in the best interests of the Community, while Mahmoud Thabit Kombo of Tanzania commended EALA for its legislative achievements and reiterated Tanzania’s commitment to the regional integration agenda.

As part of the Assembly’s procedures, two Somali members were elected to serve on the EALA Commission, while others were appointed to various standing committees, including Accounts, Legal and Privileges, Communication, Trade and Investment, Agriculture and Natural Resources, Regional Affairs and Conflict Resolution, and General Purpose.

The ceremony underscores EALA’s central role in driving legislative processes within the EAC and highlights Somalia’s growing engagement in regional governance. Analysts say the country’s active participation is expected to strengthen cooperation, promote inclusive growth, and advance the broader goals of economic integration and sustainable development across East Africa.

 

Kamati ya kudumu ya Bunge ya Ardhi, Maliasili na Utalii ikiongozwa na Mwenyekiti wake Mhe. Timotheo Mnzava (Mb) leo tarehe 13 Machi, 2026 Karatu  imedhihirishiwa kuwa Ngorongoro ni sehemu pekee duniani yenye  ushahidi timilifu wa mwanzo wa binadamu wa kale.

Umwamba huo wa kihistoria ulioainishwa na wabobezi wa mambo kale umehifadhiwa katika makumbusho ya Urithi Geopark Museum iliyopo Karatu mkoani Arusha.

Akijinasibu mbele ya kamati ya bunge kuhusu ukweli huo Afisa Mhifadhi Mkuu wa mambo kale Dkt.Agness Gidna amesema muunganiko wa maisha ya binadamu kutoka zaidi ya miaka Milioni Mia tatu iliyopita hadi kizazi cha sasa  inapatikana katika eneo la hifadhi ya Ngorongoro.

Wabunge wa kamati hiyo wamefurahishwa na uwepo wa makumbusho hiyo ni kuitaka mamlaka ya hifadhi ya Ngorongoro kuendelea kutangaza makumbusho hiyo na kazi zake za kihistoria duniani.

Mwenyekiti wa kamati hiyo Timotheo Mnzava ameishauri wizara ya Maliasili na Utalii kutanua wigo wa matangazo ya vivutio vya utalii ikiwemo makumbusho hiyo.

Waziri wa Maliasili na Utalii Dkt. Ashatu Kijaji (Mb) ameeleza Kamati hiyo kuwa Wizara na taasisi zake inaendelea mkakati wa kutangaza utalii kwa kupitia masoko mbalimbali ya kimkakati Ulaya, Asia, Amerika ili kufikia malengo ya Serikali na kufikia zaidi ya watalii milioni 8 ifikapo mwaka 2030 kw akuhakikisha kuwa kila mwaka bidhaa moja mpya inapelekwa sokoni.

Kwa upande wake Kamishna wa Uhifadhi Ngorongoro Abdul-Razaq Badru amesema mikakati ya kuboresha eneo la makumbusho hiyo kwa kuongeza miundombinu mbalimbali ya kuvutia wageni wanaotembelea inaendelea ili kwenda sambamba na chapa ya Ngorongoro kama Premium Safari Destination.

Arusha, Tanzania, — The Pan African Lawyers Union (PALU), in partnership with the Clooney Foundation for Justice, has formally filed a request for an Advisory Opinion before the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, seeking clarity on the legal obligations of African states to uphold equal inheritance rights for women and girls.

In a press statement released today,13 March 2026, PALU described the move as “a significant legal step” aimed at addressing widespread discrimination embedded in statutory, customary, and religious inheritance systems across the continent.

“Inheritance is central to economic independence and social security for women and girls, yet millions across Africa are still denied equal rights due to discriminatory laws, customs, and religious practices,” the statement reads.

According to the World Bank’s 'Women, Business and the Law 2026 report', 18 African Union member states do not grant equal inheritance rights to sons and daughters, while 19 countries deny equal rights to widows and widowers. PALU noted that in many cases, customary and religious norms override statutory protections, leaving women in polygamous or unregistered unions, as well as children born out of wedlock, particularly vulnerable.

The organization emphasized that such inequalities perpetuate poverty and gender disparity. “These practices perpetuate cycles of poverty, the feminization of poverty, and gender inequality,” the statement said, adding that secure inheritance and land rights can significantly improve women’s economic outcomes.

Citing data from international institutions, PALU highlighted that “secure land and inheritance rights for women can increase their income by up to 3.8 times, improve access to credit, and reduce food insecurity by over one-third.” Furthermore, estimates from the International Monetary Fund and UN Women suggest that eliminating gender gaps in economic participation could contribute up to $7 trillion to the global economy.

Through its application, PALU has asked the Court to clarify whether inheritance laws that discriminate against women violate key human rights instruments, including the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the Maputo Protocol. It also seeks guidance on states’ responsibilities to eliminate discrimination, ensure equal protection under the law, and guarantee access to justice.

“The request calls for robust enforcement mechanisms and inclusive legal protections, particularly for widows, women in polygamous or unregistered marriages, and children born out of wedlock,” the statement noted.

PALU further pointed to recent judicial decisions in countries such as Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, and Botswana, where courts have upheld constitutional principles of equality over conflicting customary or religious practices.

“The Advisory Opinion will provide vital guidance for harmonizing national laws with human rights standards, shaping policy reform, and supporting advocacy for equal inheritance rights across the continent,” PALU stated.

The organization has called on governments, African Union institutions, civil society, and other stakeholders to support the initiative. “Together, we can close the justice gap, end discriminatory practices, and uphold the dignity and rights of every African woman and girl,” the statement concluded.

 

The Chairperson of the EALA Women’s Caucus, Fatuma Ndangiza, has called for renewed commitment and concrete action to advance gender equality and women’s empowerment as the world commemorates International Women’s Day (IWD) 2026.

In a solidarity statement issued to mark the occasion, Ndangiza said the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) Women’s Caucus stands in solidarity with women globally in celebrating their strength, courage and achievements in shaping the future of their societies.

“Today we honor the strength, courage and achievements of women shaping the future of their societies as silent influencers and change agents,” Ndangiza said, noting that this year’s celebrations are guided by the theme “Give to Gain – Rights, Justice, Action.”

Ndangiza emphasized that investing in women and girls remains a fundamental human rights imperative and a cornerstone for building a peaceful, prosperous and sustainable world.

She noted that significant progress has been recorded globally in advancing women’s rights, citing more than 99 legal reforms implemented between 2019 and 2024 to eliminate discriminatory laws and establish frameworks for gender equality.

However, she cautioned that considerable challenges persist despite these gains.

“Women and girls represent half of the world’s population and therefore half of its potential, yet gender inequality continues to hinder social progress,” Ndangiza said.

She observed that women currently occupy only about 30 percent of managerial positions in the global labour market, while continuing to shoulder approximately two and a half times more unpaid domestic and care work than men.

Ndangiza further highlighted that gender-based violence remains a serious human rights concern worldwide, with nearly one in three women estimated to experience physical or sexual violence during their lifetime.

She noted that International Women’s Day 2026 is being commemorated amid global crises and uncertainties that disproportionately affect women and girls, further deepening existing gender inequalities.

The commemoration also coincides with the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action,  a landmark global framework for advancing women’s rights, alongside efforts to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 5 on gender equality.

Ndangiza commended partner states of the East African Community (EAC), civil society organisations and the women’s movement for their continued efforts in implementing regional and international commitments aimed at advancing gender equality.

She stressed that gender equality and women’s empowerment remain central to the EAC integration agenda.

“For the EAC to achieve a people-centred and market-driven community, there is a need to remove all obstacles that hinder the effective participation of women and girls and to unlock their full potential,” she said.

Ndangiza noted that the EALA Women’s Caucus was established by women legislators within the regional parliament to consolidate efforts aimed at strengthening women’s participation in regional integration and ensuring gender responsiveness in EAC policies, programmes and legislation.

The caucus, she added, continues to advance women’s voices and promote the agenda of justice, equality and accountability within the integration process, in line with regional and global frameworks, including the African Union Agenda 2063.

Among its priority initiatives, the caucus plans to convene the second EAC Women Intergenerational Dialogue, which will focus on the role of digital technology in enhancing women’s leadership and mentorship while addressing the digital gender divide.

Ndangiza also highlighted the caucus’s support for regional legislative initiatives, including the proposed prohibition of Female Genital Mutilation and the revival of the EAC Counter-Trafficking in Persons Bill to combat human trafficking and other emerging forms of modern-day slavery.

In addition, oversight missions to border posts such as Namanga, Nimule/Elegu, Gatuna/Katuna and Gatumba/Kamvira are being undertaken to assess the challenges facing cross-border women traders and evaluate the effectiveness of trade facilitation initiatives, including One Stop Border Posts and the Simplified Trade Regime.

Looking ahead, Ndangiza said the caucus has outlined a series of programmes aligned with EALA’s mandate of legislation, oversight and representation. These include monitoring the implementation of the Beijing+30 agenda across EAC partner states, promoting women’s leadership and strengthening regional partnerships to support women’s economic empowerment.

She called on governments, civil society organisations, the private sector and development partners to work collaboratively to accelerate progress toward gender equality.

“We must challenge discriminatory practices, engage men and boys in advancing gender justice and hold governments accountable for their commitments to gender equality,” Ndangiza said.

She further urged EAC partner states to strengthen gender-responsive accountability mechanisms, enforce equitable laws and policies, end gender-based violence and dismantle structural barriers that hinder women’s full participation in social and economic development.

“Together, let us build an inclusive, integrated and prosperous East Africa that leaves no one behind,” Ndangiza said, extending her best wishes to women across the world on International Women’s Day 2026.

Arusha, Tanzania – Jesse Kwayu, Managing Director of the media company Media Brains, has emphasized that journalists must keep pace with rapidly evolving technology by learning new online reporting skills to continue providing accurate, impactful, and socially responsible news.

Speaking during a two-day training session for journalists in Arusha, Kwayu highlighted the importance of verifying information before publishing it online to prevent the spread of false or sensational content. “Online journalists must prioritize fact-checking before reporting any event to protect themselves from legal consequences. Digital news should be concise, accurate, and focus only on the most important points,” he stressed.

The training, organized by Media Brains and sponsored by the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) of Germany, involved 20 journalists from the Arusha region. It aimed to equip journalists with the skills needed to report online news accurately without being influenced by the rapid spread of misinformation or online rumors.

Kwayu further noted that the media landscape has increasingly shifted to online platforms, requiring journalists to adopt new reporting methods and leverage technology, including artificial intelligence (AI), in gathering and processing information. The training also focused on identifying and analyzing misinformation and disinformation spreading rapidly through social media and other digital platforms.

Absalom Kibanda, Managing Director at Media Brains, emphasized the importance of journalists being able to detect false information online. 

“It is crucial to double-check any information before posting it online, especially when it circulates widely on social media,” he said.

Participants reported that the training would help them report news more carefully and avoid disseminating unverified information. 

Ashura Mohamed, a journalist from Radio 5, said, “Without professional knowledge, it is difficult to distinguish between true and false information. This training has equipped us with technological tools to identify accurate news.”

Claud Gwandu, Chairman of the Arusha Press Club (APC), thanked Media Brains for organizing the training and urged participants to serve as role models for other journalists by adhering to professional ethics and ensuring that online news meets verification standards.

The training comes at a crucial time, given the increasing ease of spreading news via social media and the growing circulation of unverified information affecting the public rapidly.

 The East African Community (EAC) has unveiled its Seventh Development Strategy (2026/27–2030/31), setting a bold roadmap to deepen regional integration and accelerate socio-economic transformation across the expanded EAC region. The strategy adopts the theme: Deepening integration for improved livelihoods of East African citizens”, with the overarching goal of achieving an integrated, stable, and resilient East African Community that enables shared prosperity for all East Africans.

Anchored in the EAC Vision 2050, Agenda 2063, and the Sustainable Development Goals, the strategy builds on lessons from the previous development plan while responding to evolving regional and global challenges. It emphasizes trade integration, digital transformation, regional infrastructure development, social development, climate resilience, and progress towards a single regional currency.

EAC Mission and Values

The EAC aims to widen and deepen economic, political, social, and cultural integration to improve the quality of life for East Africans through enhanced competitiveness, value-added production, trade, and investment. Core values guiding the strategy include professionalism, accountability, transparency, teamwork, unity in diversity, and allegiance to EAC ideals.

Strategic Development Objectives (SDOs)

The Seventh Development Strategy prioritizes seven key objectives:

1. Deepening regional trade integration.

2. Enhancing production, productivity, and value addition in productive sectors.

3. Strengthening the social dimensions of regional integration.

4. Full implementation of the roadmap for achieving the EAC Monetary Union.

5. Development of regional infrastructure.

6. Strengthening governance, political commitment, accountability, and inclusivity to improve peace and security.

7. Institutional strengthening, compliance, and accountability.

Implementation Principles and Strategic Shifts

The strategy will be implemented with a focus on results-oriented management, subsidiarity, inclusivity, transparency, accountability, innovation, and digital transformation. Key strategic shifts include moving from policy formulation to implementation, transitioning from financial dependence to self-sufficiency through funds like the East African Development Fund (EADF) and the EAC Private Sector Fund (EACPSF), decentralizing institutional execution, integrating economic corridors, and mainstreaming predictive data-driven governance.

Priority Areas and Targets (2026/27–2030/31)

The strategy identifies priority areas including:

Trade Facilitation: Harmonization of customs procedures, digitization, upgraded one-stop border posts (OSBPs), expansion of Single Customs Territory (SCT) coverage, and removal of non-tariff barriers.

Productive Sectors: Increased production, productivity, and value addition in agriculture and industry.

Social Development: Improvement in health outcomes and regional education programs, especially targeting youth unemployment.

Regional Infrastructure: Enhanced roads, railways, ports, and maritime facilities.

Governance and Security: Promotion of democratic accountability, rule of law, human rights, and conflict prevention.

Key targets by 2030/31 include:

Customs: 100% implementation of all tariff lines under the EAC Common External Tariff (CET).

Borders: Upgrade 50% of border posts to smart OSBPs.

Digital Trade: Full adoption of digital trade platforms.

Health: At least 50% of referral facilities using EAC-aligned digital systems.

Education: At least 1 million students accessing regional digital learning platforms.

Monetary Union: Finalization and operationalization of legal instruments for three Monetary Union institutions.

Governance : Adoption of the Political Confederation Constitution by 2027/28.

Security: All eight EAC Partner States to ratify the EAC Mutual Defence Pact by 2028/29.

The Seventh EAC Development Strategy represents a people-centered, market-driven approach that emphasizes innovation, inclusivity, and institutional strengthening, aiming to transform East Africa’s integration agenda into tangible benefits for citizens.

Arusha, Tanzania – March 7, 2026

President William Samoei Ruto of Kenya, outgoing Chairperson of the East African Community (EAC), addressed the 25th Ordinary Summit of EAC Heads of State in Arusha, reporting significant progress in regional integration and economic development during his tenure from November 30, 2024.

President Ruto outlined major accomplishments across multiple fronts. On peace and security, he noted the successful coordination of the EAC-led Nairobi Process with the African Union in restoring stability in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

On trade and economic growth, intra-EAC trade rose nearly 22% from $33 billion in 2024 to $40.3 billion in 2025, with exports growing 32% and imports increasing 13%, narrowing the trade deficit from $3.4 billion to $1 billion. The EAC Customs Bond under the Single Customs Territory was launched in January 2025 to facilitate secure trade across the region.

Highlighting private sector engagement, Ruto cited the 25th EAC Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Trade Fair in Nairobi, which attracted over 2,000 participants, and recognition of regional businesses and women in trade. He also emphasized ongoing efforts to conclude the EAC-European Union Economic Partnership Agreement to enhance market access.

Efforts to remove non-tariff barriers achieved a 56% reduction, while regulatory harmonization continued to facilitate trade. Infrastructure developments included progress on highways, Standard Gauge Railways, inland water transport on Lake Victoria, and the Mombasa-Tanga-Bagamoyo coastal road, reducing cargo transit time by 40%.

Ruto highlighted advances in regional tourism, sports, and digital integration, including the adoption of the UN Global Digital Compact and joining the AI for Good Impact Initiative, to promote a unified digital economy and innovation across the EAC. He stressed opportunities in textiles, proposing harmonized standards and joint marketing to global markets worth $6.8 billion annually.

Acknowledging ongoing challenges, he called for timely remittance of statutory contributions to ensure financial sustainability and the delivery of regional development projects.

As he handed over the chairmanship, Ruto expressed gratitude to fellow Heads of State, the Council of Ministers, EAC staff, and Secretary-General Veronica Nduva, while wishing the incoming Chair success in advancing the EAC’s vision of a prosperous East African region.

6 MARCH 2026

A DECISION OF THE AFRICAN COURT ON HUMAN AND PEOPLES’ RIGHTS

Arusha, 6 March 2026: The African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights (the Court) today delivered a Judgment in the case of Ado Shaibu and Others v. United Republic of Tanzania.

Mr Ado Shaibu, Mr Ezekiah Dibogo Wenje, Mr Omar Musa Makame, Ms Dorah Seronga Wangwe, Mr Enock Weges Suguta and Mr Kassim Ali Haji (hereinafter referred to as (“Applicants”) are nationals of the United Republic of Tanzania and members of the political party - Alliance for Change and Transparency. They filed their Application against the United Republic of Tanzania (“The Respondent State”) claiming violations of their civil and political rights, preceding, during and immediately after the 2020 general elections in the Respondent State.

In accordance with Article 3 of the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights on the Establishment of An African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights (“The Protocol”), the Court first determined whether it had jurisdiction to hear the Application. In this regard, the Respondent State objected to the material jurisdiction of the Court, stating that the Court’s jurisdiction is limited and therefore it cannot determine issues that fall purely under the jurisdiction of its national courts. In its decision, the Court dismissed the objection and found that even though its jurisdiction is limited by the Protocol, it is empowered to determine applications which raise alleged violations of rights guaranteed by the Charter, the Protocol or any other human rights instruments ratified by the Respondent State. Therefore, since the Applicants’ alleged violations of human rights protected by the Charter and other human rights instruments, the Court’s material jurisdiction was satisfied.

Although the other aspects of the Court’s jurisdiction were not contested by the Respondent State, the Court examined them as required by its Rules. In this regard, the Court found that it had personal jurisdiction since, on 29 March 2010, the Respondent State deposited the Declaration provided for under Article 34(6) of the Protocol. This Declaration allows individuals to file applications against the Respondent State in accordance with Article 5(3) of the Protocol. The Court underscored that the Respondent State’s withdrawal of the said Declaration on 21 November 2019 did not affect this Application, as the Application was filed before the Court on 20 November 2020, while the withdrawal took effect on 22 November 2020.

With regard to temporal jurisdiction, the Court found that most of the alleged violations occurred in 2020, that is, after the Respondent State had ratified the Protocol. Moreover, the alleged violation as regards article 41(7) of the Respondent State’s Constitution of 1977 on the inability to challenge the result of presidential elections, is continuing as it still remains in the Constitution to date, and therefore, the Court’s temporal jurisdiction was satisfied. Lastly, the Court held that it had territorial jurisdiction as the alleged violations occurred in the Respondent State’s territory which is a party to the Charter and the Protocol. The Court then held that it had jurisdiction to hear the case.

The Court then considered, in accordance with Article 56 of the Charter and Rule 50(2) of the Rules of Court (hereinafter referred to as “the Rules”), whether the Application was admissible. In this regard, the Respondent State raised three objections to the admissibility of the Application. First, the Respondent State argued that the Application was based exclusively on news disseminated by the mass media, and therefore did not comply with Rule 50(2)(d) of the Rules. In its decision, the Court found that the Application was based on some media reports but also on other documents such as affidavits. Therefore, the Court dismissed the objection and found that the Application complied with the provision of Rule 50(2)(d) of the Rules.

Second, the Respondent State argued that the Applicants filed their case before the Court, prematurely as they had not exhausted local remedies. The Court in its decision found that the Applicants had not exhausted local remedies as they had only made unsubstantiated general statements on there being a climate of fear in the country which impeded them from exhausting local remedies. Nevertheless, the Court found that the allegation relating to the lack of remedies to challenge the result of presidential elections was admissible as there was no remedy to challenge result of presidential elections in the national courts of the Respondent State.

Lastly, the Respondent State contended that the allegation relating to the lack of remedies to challenge the result of presidential elections was inadmissible because it had already been settled by the Court in its decision on the matter of Jebra Kambole v Tanzania. In its decision, the Court held that for a matter to be settled there must be a convergence of three conditions: the identity of the parties; (ii) the identity of the applications or their supplementary, consecutive or alternative nature or whether the case flows from a request made in the initial case and (iii) the existence of a first decision on the merits. In this regard, the Court found that the identity of the parties was not the same as the Kambole case had been filed by an individual in the public’s interest while the present case had been filed by individuals allegedly affected by the conduct of the elections. Therefore, the Court found that the alleged violation herein had not been settled.

With regard to the allegation on the lack of remedy to challenge the result of presidential elections in the national courts of the Respondent State which the Court found to be admissible, the Court had to ensure that the other conditions of admissibility had been fulfilled before determining its merit. In this regard, the Court found that the Applicants had clearly been identified by names, Applicants’ claims sought to protect their rights guaranteed under the Charter and the language used in the Application was not disparaging or insulting to the Respondent State in fulfilment of Rule 50(2)(a), (b) and (c) respectively.

With regards to the condition on filing the Application within a reasonable time, the Court noted that the time to be considered was the time between the deposit of the Declaration, which is, 29 March 2010 and the date of the filing of the Application, 20 November 2020, a period of 10 years, six months and 22 days. In its finding, the Court observed that since the alleged violation is continuing as the impugned provision remains in the Constitution of the Respondent State, the time limit for seizing the Court had not begun to run. Therefore, the Application complied with Rule 50(2)(f) of the Rules. The Court also found that the allegation on the right to challenge the presidential elections does not concern a subject matter which has already been settled according to the Charter, the Constitutive Act of the AU or the UN Charter in accordance with Rule 50(2)(g) of the Rules.

On the merits of the case, the Applicants alleged that there was no remedy to challenge presidential elections after the announcement of the winner by the Electoral Commission and that this violated their right to a fair trial under Article 7(1) of the Charter and the obligation of Member States to put up measures that would give effect to the Charter under Article 1 thereof. In its decision, the Court found in accordance with its previous jurisprudence that article 41(7) of the Respondent State’s Constitution, in so far as it bars courts from inquiring into the election of a presidential candidate who has been declared elected by the Electoral Commission, violates Article 1 and 7(1) of the Charter.

The Court having found the violation of Articles 1 and 7(1) of the Charter, ordered the Respondent State to take all necessary constitutional and legislative measures, within one year, to ensure that article 41(7) of its Constitution is amended and aligned with the provisions of the Charter.

Each Party was ordered to bear its own costs.

 A joint Separate Opinion of Justice Tchikaya and Justice Anukam is appended to the judgment in accordance with Article 28(7) of the Protocol and Rule 70(3) of the Rules in which they argued that the Court should have separated the consideration of the alleged violation of rights involving physical violence and the rights allegedly violated by the electoral laws.

Further Information

Further information about this case, including the full text of the decision of the African Court, may be found on the website at: https://www.african-court.org/cpmt/details-case/046/2020

For any other queries, please contact the Registry by email registrar@african-court.org.

The African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights is a continental court established by African Union Member States to ensure the protection of human and peoples’ rights in Africa. The Court has jurisdiction over all cases and disputes submitted to it concerning the interpretation and application of the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights and any other relevant human rights instrument ratified by the States concerned. For further information, please consult our website at www.african-court.org.