📌Miaka ya adha yafikia kikomo, usafirishaji wa mazao na huduma za kijamii sasa warahisishwa

Ngorongoro 

Wananchi wa Kata ya Oldonyosambu, wilayani Ngorongoro, wameishukuru Serikali kwa kuwajengea daraja la mawe lenye urefu wa mita 45 katika Mto Mbaga linalounganisha vijiji vya Jema na Oldonyosambu.

Wakizungumza kwa nyakati tofauti wananchi hao walisema kukamilika kwa daraja hilo kumewaondolea changamoto ya muda mrefu ya usafirishaji wa mazao na upatikanaji wa huduma za kijamii hususan katika kipindi cha masika.

Diwani wa Kata ya Oldonyosambu, Mhe. Kabaney Mojah, amesema kabla ya ujenzi wa daraja hilo, wakazi wa eneo hilo walikumbwa na matatizo makubwa ya mawasiliano na usafirishaji wa mazao kutoka Kijiji cha Jema ambako kuna shughuli za kilimo.

“Kijiji cha Jema ni eneo letu kuu la uzalishaji mazao. Hapo awali tulikuwa na changamoto kubwa ya kusafirisha mazao kwenda soko la Arusha pamoja na mawasiliano kati ya vijiji hivi viwili. Tunaishukuru Serikali kwa kutatua tatizo hili,” alisema Mhe. Mojah.

Aliongeza kuwa Mto Mbaga ulikuwa kikwazo kikubwa, hasa nyakati za mvua, hali iliyosababisha usumbufu hata katika masuala ya dharura.

“Mto Mbaga ni mto korofi, zamani wakati wa masika wananchi hawakuweza kuvuka kabisa. Sasa tunaweza hata kuwasafirisha wanafunzi wanaougua kutoka Shule ya Sekondari Jema hadi Hospitali ya Wilaya iliyopo Wasso bila hofu,” amesisitiza.

Naye,  mkazi wa eneo hilo  Likam Maroseck amesema  kabla ya daraja kujengwa, baadhi ya wananchi walikumbwa na hatari ya kusombwa na maji walipokuwa wakivuka kwenda kulima mashamba yao kijijini Jema.

“Ujenzi wa daraja hili umeleta ahueni kubwa. Kwa sasa shughuli zetu zinafanyika kwa urahisi na usalama zaidi,” amesema.

Kwa upande wake, Kaimu Meneja wa TARURA Wilaya ya Ngorongoro, Mhandisi Edwin Merdad, amesema kuwa katika mwaka wa fedha 2023/2024, walitenga bajeti ya shilingi milioni 500 kwa ajili ya ujenzi wa daraja hilo pamoja na uboreshaji wa barabara inayounganisha vijiji hivyo.

Amesema pamoja na mpango wa awali wa kuchonga na kuweka kifusi kwenye barabara yenye urefu wa kilomita tano, wamefanikiwa kujenga barabara yenye urefu wa kilomita 14 kati ya vijiji hivyo viwili.

“Daraja hili ni msaada mkubwa si tu kwa wakazi wa Oldonyosambu na Jema, bali pia kwa wafanyabiashara kutoka nchi jirani ya Kenya wanaoshiriki katika shughuli za minada. 

“Zamani wakati wa masika wananchi walishindwa kuvuka kwa takribani miezi miwili, lakini sasa hali hiyo imekuwa historia,” amesema Mhandisi Merdad.

Halmashauri ya Wilaya ya Ngorongoro ina mtandao wa barabara wenye jumla ya kilomita 970.698, zikiwemo barabara za zege kilomita 0.224, barabara za changarawe kilomita 306.41 na barabara za udongo kilomita 664.064.

 

Kikao cha Makatibu Wakuu na Maafisa Waandamizi wa Nchi Wanachama wa Jumuiya ya Maendeleo Kusini mwa Afrika (SADC) kupitia utekelezaji wa Mpango Mkakati Elekezi wa Maendeleo ya Kikanda (Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan- RISDP) kimeanza leo tarehe 04 Machi 2026 jijini Pretoria, Afrika Kusini.

Ujumbe wa Tanzania katika kikao hicho cha utangulizi kuelekea Mkutano wa Baraza la Mawaziri wa SADC utakaofanyika Machi 12 na 13, 2026, unaongozwa na Naibu Katibu Mkuu wa Wizara ya Mambo ya Nje na Ushirikiano wa Afrika Mashariki, Balozi Said Shaib Mussa. 

Wakati wa hotuba za ufunguzi,  Mwenyekiti wa kikao hicho ambaye ni Naibu Katibu Mkuu wa Wizara ya Uhusiano wa Kimataifa na Ushirikiano ya Afrika Kusini, Balozi Tebogo Seokolo na Katibu Mtendaji wa SADC, Mhe. Elias Magosi walisisitiza umuhimu wa  mpango wa RISDP wa mwaka 2020 - 2030 kufanyiwa tathmini kwa lengo la kujiridhisha ufanisi wake na kubaini changamoto ili ziweze kupatiwa ufumbuzi kwa muktadha wa kuboresha utekelezaji wa mpango huo kwa kipindi cha miaka mitano iliyosalia 2026-2030.

Changamoto mbalimbali zimebainishwa katika utekelezaji wa mpango wa RISDP ambazo ni pamoja na uhaba wa rasilimali fedha; utofauti baina ya vipaumbele vya kitaifa na kikanda na kutorandana kwa sera zilizotungwa na utekelezaji halisi wa mpango wa RISDP.

Balozi Seokolo alieleza kuwa utekelezaji wa RISDP  ulipitia na unapitia changamoto nyingi kama vile madhara ya UVIKO-19, mabadiliko ya tabianchi, changamoto za kiusalama, uhaba wa nishati, usalama wa chakula na mabadiliko ya siasa za ulimwengu. Alibainisha kuwa, katika kukabiliana na changamoto hizo, SADC inahitaji mikakati thabiti na utekelezaji wa pamoja ili nchi wanachama ziweze kufikia malengo ya RISDP.

 

Katika kuadhimisha Siku ya Wanawake Duniani tarehe 8 Machi 2026, tunamsherehekea PCOI Lohiza Zakaria, mwanamke shupavu na mtaalamu wa uhifadhi wa wanyamapori, ambaye ameonesha ujasiri wa kipekee katika kazi yake ya kuhifadhi wanyamapori na mazingira ya hifadhi ya Ngorongoro kwa zaidi ya miaka 34.

Zakaria, ambaye mara nyingi anajulikana kwa jina la utani "Profesa," ni mtaalamu aliyejikita katika tafiti za wanyamapori, sensa za viumbe hai, na kupambana na mimea vamizi katika hifadhi ya Ngorongoro. Katika kazi yake, Zakaria ameweza kugundua na kutatua changamoto nyingi zinazokabili hifadhi hii maarufu duniani, huku akiwa na umakini mkubwa katika kuzingatia usalama na ustawi wa wanyama pori.

Tukio la Hatari: Uso kwa Uso na Faru

Moja ya matukio muhimu zaidi katika maisha ya kazi ya Zakaria ni tukio la tarehe 6 Machi 2020. Alikumbana na tukio la hatari lililomkumba akiwa katika utekelezaji wa majukumu yake kwenye Kreta ya Ngorongoro. Ghafla, alikumbana na faru ambaye alionekana bila kutarajia na kumkimbiza kwa kasi. Zakaria alijaribu kutumia mbinu alizozipata wakati wa mafunzo ya kijeshi ili kujinasua, lakini alishambuliwa na kujeruhiwa vibaya.

Hata hivyo, ujasiri wake ulizidi changamoto hiyo. Aliweza kuokolewa na kisha alikimbizwa hospitali kwa matibabu ya dharura. Baada ya kupona, Zakaria alirejea kazini bila kuogopa hatari, akiendelea na kazi yake ya uhifadhi kwa moyo wa kujitolea.

Mchango wa Zakaria katika Uhifadhi wa Wanyamapori

Zakaria ni mfano wa wanawake shupavu katika sekta ya uhifadhi. Ameendelea kufanya kazi akiwa na jukumu la kuhimiza jamii kutunza wanyamapori na mazingira kwa ujumla. Aliwahi kusema, “Uhifadhi si kazi ya leo, ni kazi ya maisha. Tunapohifadhi wanyamapori, tunahakikisha kuwa dunia yetu inakuwa salama kwa vizazi vijavyo.”

Zakaria amehusika katika shughuli mbalimbali za uhifadhi, ikiwa ni pamoja na kutatua changamoto zinazotokana na mabadiliko ya tabianchi, kupambana na uvamizi wa mimea vamizi, na kuhakikisha usalama wa wanyama pori katika maeneo ya Ngorongoro. Uzoefu wake katika kazi hii umemfundisha kuwa kila hatua katika uhifadhi ni muhimu, na kila changamoto inahitaji ubunifu na juhudi za pamoja.

Miaka 6 Tangu Tukio la Faru: Pongezi kwa Ujasiri na Uongozi Wake

Kwa sasa, Zakaria anasherehekea miaka 6 tangu tukio la kukutana uso kwa uso na faru, tukio ambalo lilimfundisha mengi kuhusu ujasiri, kujitolea, na kujenga tabia ya kupambana na changamoto zinazojitokeza. Katika maadhimisho haya, tunamvisha pete ya heshima na kumpongeza kwa kujitolea kwake na juhudi za kipekee katika uhifadhi wa wanyamapori.

Zakaria ni mfano wa kweli wa jinsi wanawake wanavyoweza kuwa viongozi wa kubadili dunia. Uzoefu wake, ujasiri wake, na mchango wake katika uhifadhi wa mazingira ya Ngorongoro unadhihirisha kuwa wanawake wana nafasi muhimu katika uongozi na utunzaji wa rasilimali za asili.

Zakaria: Mwanamke Jasiri na Mchango Wake wa Kipekee

Zakaria anathibitisha kuwa wanawake wana nguvu na uwezo wa kuleta mabadiliko katika sekta yoyote. Anajivunia kuwa sehemu ya jamii inayotunza mazingira ya Ngorongoro, na kwa kweli, mchango wake katika uhifadhi wa wanyamapori na mazingira ni wa kipekee na hauwezi kupuuziliwa mbali.

Kwa kumpongeza Zakaria, tunatoa mfano wa nguvu ya wanawake katika utunzaji wa mazingira na wanyamapori, na kwa kutambua mchango wake, tunathibitisha kuwa wanawake wanachangia sana katika kuboresha jamii na mazingira.

Zakaria, wewe ni mfano wa matumaini na nguvu kwa wanawake wote duniani. Pongezi nyingi kwa ujasiri wako na kujitolea kwako kwa ajili ya uhifadhi wa mazingira yetu.

#SikuYaWanawake2026 #WanawakeShupavu #Uhifadhi #Ngorongoro #UongoziWaWanawake #Ujasiri

 

 

Spinel ni miongoni mwa madini ya vito yenye thamani kubwa sana duniani, yanayoendelea kupata umaarufu mkubwa katika masoko ya kimataifa kutokana na ubora wake wa kipekee, rangi adimu na uimara wa hali ya juu. Tanzania ni miongoni mwa nchi chache duniani zilizojaaliwa rasilimali hii adimu, hususan katika eneo la Mahenge, Kijiji cha Epanko, Wilaya ya Ulanga, mkoani Morogoro, eneo ambalo limejijengea sifa ya kuwa chanzo cha spinel bora zaidi duniani.

Spinel ni jiwe la vito lenye rangi mbalimbali ikiwemo nyekundu, pinki, zambarau, bluu na machungwa. Umaarufu wake unatokana na sifa kadhaa muhimu ikiwemo uwazi wake wa hali ya juu (high clarity), rangi kali na ya kuvutia inayopendwa sana katika soko la vito, pamoja na uimara mkubwa unaoufanya kudumu kwa muda mrefu. Aidha, spinel nyingi hupatikana bila kuhitaji matibabu ya joto (heat treatment), jambo linaloongeza thamani yake sokoni.

Kwa miaka mingi, spinel nyekundu ilichanganywa na ruby hadi pale sayansi ya madini ilipobaini tofauti zake. Leo hii, spinel imesimama kama jiwe la vito lenye hadhi yake binafsi na thamani inayozidi kuongezeka mwaka hadi mwaka.

Mahenge, iliyopo Wilaya ya Ulanga mkoani Morogoro, ni eneo lenye umuhimu mkubwa katika ramani ya madini ya vito duniani. Spinel inayopatikana Mahenge inajulikana kwa rangi yake ya pinki na nyekundu yenye mwanga wa kipekee (neon-like glow), sifa inayofanya spinel ya Mahenge kutafutwa sana na wafanyabiashara wa vito duniani.

Ugunduzi wa spinel katika eneo hili umeifanya Mahenge kutambulika kimataifa na kuiweka Tanzania miongoni mwa nchi muhimu katika biashara ya madini ya vito. Spinel ya Mahenge imekuwa ikitajwa mara kwa mara katika maonesho makubwa ya vito ya kimataifa ikiwemo Tucson Gem Show nchini Marekani, Hong Kong Jewellery Fair, pamoja na maonesho ya vito ya Bangkok, Thailand, hatua inayoongeza hadhi ya Tanzania katika soko la kimataifa la madini ya vito.

Uchimbaji wa spinel Mahenge unaongozwa na kampuni za Kitanzania, zikiwemo Ruby International Limited na Franone Mining, ambazo ndizo wawekezaji wakuu katika uchimbaji wa madini haya katika eneo hilo. Kampuni hizi, ambazo ni mali ya Watanzania, zimeonesha mfano mzuri wa jinsi wawekezaji wa ndani wanavyoweza kuendeleza rasilimali za taifa kwa ufanisi, uwajibikaji na uzingatiaji wa Sheria.

Akizungumza kuhusu umuhimu wa spinel ya Mahenge na mchango wake kwa jamii, Msimamizi wa Ruby International Mining, Mhandisi Penina Mtego, katika mgodi wa Epanko, Mahenge, anasema:

“Spinel ya Mahenge ni rasilimali adimu yenye ubora wa kipekee duniani. Kama kampuni ya Kitanzania, tumedhamiria kuhakikisha uchimbaji wake unazingatia viwango vya kitaalamu huku manufaa yake yakirudi moja kwa moja kwa taifa na kwa wananchi wa Mahenge. Kipaumbele chetu ni kutoa ajira, kuchangia maendeleo ya jamii na kulinda mazingira.”

Msimamo wa Serikali

Serikali ya Tanzania inaendelea kusisitiza umuhimu wa kusimamia rasilimali za madini kwa tija na uwazi ili ziwe chachu ya maendeleo ya wananchi. Akizungumzia mchango wa madini ya vito, hususan spinel ya Mahenge, Naibu Waziri wa Madini, Dkt. Steven Kiruswa, anasema:

“Madini ya vito kama spinel ya Mahenge ni utajiri mkubwa wa taifa letu. Serikali inaendelea kuweka mazingira rafiki kwa wawekezaji wazawa ili kuhakikisha rasilimali hizi zinachimbwa kwa kuzingatia Sheria, zinawanufaisha wananchi, na kuongeza mapato ya serikali kwa maendeleo ya nchi.”

Kauli hiyo inaakisi dhamira ya serikali ya kuimarisha ushiriki wa Watanzania katika sekta ya madini na kuongeza thamani ya rasilimali kabla ya kuingia kwenye masoko ya kimataifa.

Uwepo wa migodi ya spinel Mahenge unaleta mabadiliko makubwa ya kijamii na kiuchumi kwa wakazi wa eneo hilo. Vijana wengi pamoja na kina mama wamepata ajira za moja kwa moja na zisizo za moja kwa moja katika shughuli za uchimbaji, ulinzi, usafirishaji na huduma mbalimbali.

Dkt. Kiruswa anasisitiza kuwa, ajira hizi zimekuwa chanzo muhimu cha kipato kwa familia nyingi, hivyo kusaidia kupunguza umaskini na kuboresha hali ya maisha ya wakazi wa Mahenge na maeneo ya jirani.

Mbali na kutoa ajira, Dkt. Kiruswa anazipongeza Kampuni za Ruby International Limited na Franone Mining kuwa kuendelea kutekeleza wajibu wao kwa kijamii kwa kuchangia maendeleo ya jamii inayozunguka migodi yao ambapo mchango huo unajumuisha: Ujenzi wa zahanati, ujenzi na ukarabati wa shule na madarasa, ujenzi wa ofisi za serikali za mitaa, kuboresha miundombinu ya barabara, kuchangia ustawi wa vijana na wanawake na ushirikiana kwa karibu na viongozi wa eneo katika utekelezaji wa miradi ya maendeleo ya Mahenge.

Hatua hizi zinaonesha dhamira ya dhati ya kampuni hizi katika kuhakikisha rasilimali za madini zinaleta manufaa ya moja kwa moja kwa wananchi.

*Utalii wa Madini na Fursa Mpya za Kiuchumi*

Uwepo wa madini ya spinel Mahenge umechochea pia kukua kwa utalii wa madini, ambapo wadau wa ndani na nje ya nchi wanafika Mahenge kujifunza, kuona na kushuhudia shughuli za uchimbaji wa madini ya vito.

Utalii wa madini Mahenge umeanza kuchangia kukua kwa uchumi wa eneo hilo kwa kuleta fursa mpya katika sekta za malazi, usafiri, uuzaji wa vito pamoja na kukuza utamaduni wa wenyeji.

Spinel ni hazina kubwa ya taifa ambayo imeipa Tanzania heshima na nafasi ya kipekee katika soko la madini ya vito duniani. Mahenge, Wilaya ya Ulanga mkoani Morogoro, imekuwa mfano bora wa namna rasilimali asili zinavyoweza kuleta maendeleo endapo zitasimamiwa kwa uwazi, uzalendo na uwajibikaji.

Kupitia uwekezaji wa kampuni za Kitanzania kama Ruby International Limited na Franone Mining, spinel imekuwa chanzo cha ajira, mapato na maendeleo ya kijamii, kuthibitisha kuwa uwekezaji wa wazawa katika rasilimali za taifa ni nguzo muhimu ya maendeleo endelevu ya nchi.

Kutokana na ubora wa madini hayo, rasilimali hii bado inahitaji uwekezaji wa kutafiti, kuchimba, biashara  na kuongezwa thamani fursa hizi bado zipo na ikizingatiwa kwa mujibu wa wataalam kwa vito ni aina 25 tu vinazochimbwa Tanzania huku kukiwa na zaidi ya aina 100 za  madini ya vito ambayo nchi hii imebarikiwa kuwa nazo. Kwa wageni Sheria inaruhusu kuingia mkataba wa usaidizi kupitia teknolojia na mitaji.

 

The three major international human rights courts—the African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights (AfCHPR), the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR), and the Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACtHR)—have convened for the Fourth International Human Rights Forum, which began today, March 3, 2026, in Arusha, Tanzania. The forum aims to strengthen cooperation among the courts, facilitate the exchange of experiences, and address common human rights issues impacting their respective regions.

This event is taking place within the framework of the African Court's 80th Ordinary Session, running from March 2 to 27, 2026, at the Court’s headquarters in Arusha. Over the course of the two-day forum, judges and experts from the three courts will engage in discussions on a range of important human rights issues, including the impact of emerging technologies, climate change, and the ongoing threats to fundamental human rights and the rule of law.

Judge Blaise Tchikaya – President of the African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights (AfCHPR) opened the forum with a warm welcome to all participants, emphasizing the African Court’s 20th anniversary as a significant milestone. 

He highlighted the Court’s ongoing commitment to defending human rights across Africa and its efforts to address the challenges posed by political conflicts and geopolitical issues.

"We celebrate our achievements, but we are also keenly aware of the continuing challenges in protecting human rights, especially in light of current conflicts and political instability," Judge Tchikaya remarked. 

He also mentioned the upcoming relocation of the African Court’s headquarters to Lakilaki area , aimed at improving its operations and visibility.

Judge Arnfinn Bardsen – Vice President of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR), congratulated the African Court on its 20th anniversary and expressed his support for the Forum’s objectives. 

He underscored the importance of collaboration between international human rights courts, particularly as the world faces rising authoritarianism and a decline in democratic values. 

"We are witnessing a global trend of diminishing faith in democracy and growing authoritarianism. 

As human rights courts, it is our shared responsibility to ensure that human rights continue to be upheld," said Judge Guyomar.

Judge Nancy López President of Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACtHR), stressed the importance of regular meetings among international human rights courts to address the emerging challenges of the digital age, climate change, and the protection of individual freedoms. 

"Technology and digital surveillance are increasingly encroaching on privacy and freedom of expression. It is crucial that we work together to develop a unified legal approach to safeguard these rights in a rapidly changing world," she noted.

The Fourth International Human Rights Forum is focusing on critical contemporary issues, including the role of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping human rights and governance. Judges and experts will explore both the opportunities and the associated risks that new technologies present to privacy, freedom of expression, and human rights protection.

Additionally, the three courts will renew their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which was initially signed in 2023, further solidifying their collaboration in advancing human rights worldwide.

The Fourth International Human Rights Forum serves as a vital platform for dialogue and cooperation among the three major international human rights courts. It reinforces their shared commitment to addressing the challenges of safeguarding human rights and the rule of law in a world marked by political, technological, and environmental changes.

Arusha, Tanzania — March 2, 2026. The President of the Republic of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, today officially launched the 2026 Judicial Year of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, marking the institution’s 20th anniversary with a strong call for African nations to deepen their commitment to human rights and judicial independence.

Speaking during the ceremony held in Arusha, Mahama urged African Union member states that have not yet ratified the Court’s Protocol to do so without delay. He also encouraged governments to respect and implement the Court’s judgments in good faith and to allow individuals and non-governmental organizations direct access to the Court.

The Ghanaian leader reflected on his personal history, recounting how his father was detained and later forced into exile for his political views. He said the experience shaped his enduring belief in the protection of human rights and the rule of law.

“I stand before you not only as a Head of State, but as the child of a man who was detained for serving his country and advising its leader,” Mahama said. “No one stands alone when injustice occurs. Its impact extends to families, communities, and entire nations.”

He emphasized that although Africa is made up of 55 sovereign states, their destinies are interconnected and require a strong continental institution capable of safeguarding shared values. Over the past two decades, he noted, the Court has demonstrated courage and fortitude in defending the principles enshrined in the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

Mahama also referenced prominent African figures who suffered persecution or assassination during liberation struggles, including Patrice Lumumba, Thomas Sankara, and Nelson Mandela, saying Africa lost invaluable human potential during those turbulent decades.

Quoting Tanzania’s founding President, Julius Nyerere, who once said, “One does not judge one’s state of health by comparing it to a sick person,” Mahama called on African nations to define their own standards of justice, democracy, and governance.

With Africa’s population projected to reach 2.5 billion by 2050, he said the continent holds immense demographic power that must be matched by strong institutions that protect dignity, liberty, and self-determination.

“Now is the time for Africa to step into its greatness,” he declared.

On behalf of the citizens of Africa, President Mahama officially declared the 2026 Judicial Year of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights open, reaffirming the continent’s collective responsibility to uphold justice and human dignity.

Arusha, Tanzania The United Republic of Tanzania has reiterated its firm commitment to strengthening the African human rights system as the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights (AfCHPR) officially opened its 2026 Judicial Year during a solemn ceremony held in Arusha.

The Deputy Minister for Constitutional and Legal Affairs, Zainab Athumani Katimba, described Tanzania’s role as Host State as “a profound privilege” and reaffirmed the Government’s enduring support for the Court’s mandate.

The ceremony was graced by the President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, who attended as Guest of Honour, alongside the President of the Court, Honourable Judge Blaise Tchikaya, Vice President Lady Justice Bensaoula Chafika, representatives of African Union institutions, members of the diplomatic corps, civil society organisations, and members of the press.

Conveying “warm and fraternal greetings” from President Samia Suluhu Hassan, Katimba welcomed delegates from across the continent, noting that their presence reflected the high esteem in which the Court is held and the shared commitment to advancing justice in Africa.

“The African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights has a noble mandate: to ensure the protection of human and peoples’ rights across our Continent,” Katimba stated, congratulating the Court on its twentieth anniversary.

She observed that over the past two decades, the Court has demonstrated “dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment,” ensuring meaningful access to justice at regional and international levels. She further noted that the institution has contributed significantly to the vision of “African Solutions to African Problems” by strengthening an adjudicatory system that bridges diverse legal traditions and advances justice across Member States.

Acknowledging existing challenges — including hesitancy by some States to accede to the Court’s jurisdiction, withdrawals of declarations under Article 34(6) of the Protocol, and non-implementation of certain judgments — Katimba emphasized that the Court has nonetheless “remained steadfast in its resolve and consistent in its jurisprudential development,” navigating complex legal and political landscapes with “prudence, integrity, and professionalism.”

“The strength of the African Court ultimately reflects our collective commitment to the rule of law, accountability, and human dignity,” she said.

Katimba highlighted Tanzania’s longstanding engagement with the Court since its establishment in 2006, describing the relationship as one characterised by sustained cooperation and mutual respect. She pointed to domestic legal reforms influenced by the Court’s jurisprudence, including developments following *Alex Thomas v. Tanzania* that contributed to the enactment of the Legal Aid Act, as well as judicial reasoning referenced in *Attorney General v. Dickson Paulo Sanga* drawing from *Anaclet Paulo v. Tanzania*.

She further affirmed that Tanzania remains engaged in “constructive dialogue with the Court on matters relating to access under Article 34(6) of the Protocol,” describing the dialogue as part of efforts to strengthen mutual confidence, institutional effectiveness, and the broader aspiration for justice and accountability across the continent.

Under the theme, *“20 Years of Service in Protecting Human and Peoples’ Rights in Africa,”* Katimba described the anniversary as a timely opportunity to reflect on the Court’s journey, celebrate its milestones, and draw lessons to guide its future direction.

“As this Court marks this important milestone, may the coming decades further consolidate its noble mandate as a steadfast guardian of human and peoples’ rights and as an enduring beacon of Africa’s justice, dignity, and moral authority,” she concluded.

The ceremony formally marked the commencement of the 2026 Judicial Year of the AfCHPR, reinforcing Africa’s collective resolve to uphold justice, constitutionalism, and the protection of human rights across the continent.

Arusha, Tanzania — March 2, 2026. The East African Community (EAC) Heads of State are set to convene for the 25th Ordinary Summit on March 7, 2026, in Arusha, United Republic of Tanzania, reaffirming their commitment to deepening regional integration and improving the livelihoods of East African citizens.

Held under the theme, “Deepening Integration for Improved Livelihoods of EAC Citizens,” the Summit — the highest decision-making organ of the Community — will bring together leaders from the eight EAC Partner States to deliberate on strategic issues shaping the future of the regional bloc.

Key agenda items include reviewing progress in the implementation of regional programmes, considering institutional reports, and advancing strategic initiatives aimed at accelerating integration and promoting sustainable socioeconomic development.

Among the highlights of the Summit will be the launch of the EAC Customs Bond, a single regional customs guarantee designed to replace the current requirement for multiple national bonds along transit routes. Under the new framework, traders and clearing agents will secure one bond recognized across all Partner States, significantly reducing compliance costs and border delays.

The Customs Bond links customs administrations, insurers, and financial institutions within a unified regional system. The initiative is expected to safeguard government revenue, facilitate faster movement of goods, and enhance trade efficiency across the Community.

The Heads of State will also officially launch the 7th EAC Development Strategy (2026/27–2030/31), which outlines the Community’s strategic direction for the next five years. The Strategy builds on lessons from the previous development cycle and aligns with EAC Vision 2050, the African Union’s Agenda 2063, and the Sustainable Development Goals.

Speaking ahead of the Summit, EAC Secretary General Veronica Nduva emphasized the importance of the meeting as a platform for collective leadership and decisive regional action.

“The Summit of the EAC Heads of State remains the most important platform for guiding the Community’s integration agenda. Convening in Arusha provides an opportunity for our leaders to take strategic decisions that strengthen cooperation, promote trade, and advance shared prosperity for the people of East Africa,” she said.

She added that the launch of the Customs Bond and the 7th Development Strategy reflects the Community’s shift toward practical solutions that enhance competitiveness and economic resilience.

The Summit will also consider the Report of the Council to the Heads of State covering the period from November 30, 2024, to December 31, 2025, as well as modalities for implementing the directive of the 24th Summit on sustainable financing of the EAC budget based on a 65 percent equal contribution and 35 percent assessed contribution formula.

Other key decisions expected include the appointment of a new EAC Secretary General, the appointment of Judges to the East African Court of Justice, renewal of Deputy Secretaries General, appointment of Commissioners to the EAC Competition Authority, and assent to Bills passed by the East African Legislative Assembly.

The Summit follows an extraordinary meeting of the EAC Council of Ministers taking place from March 2 to 5, 2026, at the EAC Headquarters in Arusha.

The outcomes of the 25th Ordinary Summit are expected to reinforce policy alignment among Partner States and accelerate implementation of key regional programmes aimed at fostering inclusive growth and deeper economic integration across East Africa.

 

Washington/Tehran — Rais wa Marekani, Donald Trump, ameionya Iran dhidi ya kuchukua hatua zozote za kijeshi kuelekea Marekani au washirika wake, akiahidi kutumia “nguvu ambayo haijawahi kuonekana” iwapo vitisho vitatekelezwa.

Katika ujumbe aliouchapisha kwenye mtandao wake wa kijamii wa Truth Social, Trump aliandika kwa herufi kubwa: “Iran hivi punde imesema kwamba itafanya mashambulizi makali ambayo hayajawahi kuonekana. WASIJARIBU KUFANYA HIVYO KWA SABABU WAKIDHUBUTU, TUTAWAKABILI KWA NGUVU AMBAYO HAIJAWAHI KUONEKANA!”

Kauli hiyo inajiri saa chache baada ya Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) kuonya kuwa itaanzisha operesheni kali za kijeshi dhidi ya maeneo inayoyataja kuwa ni “yanayokaliwa kimabavu” pamoja na vituo vya kijeshi vya Marekani, kulipiza kisasi kifo cha Kiongozi Mkuu wa Iran, Ali Khamenei.

Katika taarifa yake, IRGC ilisema: “Tutaanza operesheni mbaya zaidi katika historia ya vikosi vya jeshi vya Jamhuri ya Kiislamu ya Iran kuelekea maeneo yanayokaliwa kimabavu na vituo vya kigaidi vya Marekani muda mfupi ujao.”

Matamshi hayo yameongeza hofu ya kuongezeka kwa mapambano ya moja kwa moja kati ya Iran kwa upande mmoja na Marekani pamoja na Israel kwa upande mwingine, hali inayoweza kuathiri kwa kiasi kikubwa usalama wa Mashariki ya Kati.

Wakati mvutano ukiendelea, mwana wa shah wa mwisho wa Iran aliyeondolewa madarakani mwaka 1979, Reza Pahlavi, ametoa kauli akiunga mkono kuuawa kwa Khamenei. Katika makala iliyochapishwa na The Washington Post, Pahlavi alimshukuru Trump kwa ujumbe wake kwa watu wa Iran kwamba “wakati wa uhuru wenu imekaribia.”

Pahlavi alidai kuwa kwa karibu nusu karne, Jamhuri ya Kiislamu ya Iran imekuwa ikivuruga utulivu wa majirani zake, kuchochea migogoro kimataifa na kuendeleza mpango wa silaha za nyuklia na makombora ya masafa marefu. Aidha, alitaja kile alichokiita ukiukwaji mkubwa wa haki za binadamu ndani ya Iran, ikiwemo mauaji ya waandamanaji katika misako ya usalama.

Amesema mustakabali wa Iran unapaswa kuhusisha kuandikwa kwa katiba mpya kupitia kura ya maoni na kufuatiwa na uchaguzi huru chini ya uangalizi wa kimataifa.

Ndani ya Iran, mamlaka zimetangaza kuwa rais wa nchi, mkuu wa mahakama na mmoja wa wanasheria wa Guardian Council watasimamia kipindi cha mpito kufuatia kifo cha Khamenei. Wakati huo huo, Assembly of Experts — chombo cha maulama chenye jukumu la kikatiba — kinatarajiwa kukutana haraka iwezekanavyo kumteua Kiongozi Mkuu mpya.

Kwa mujibu wa katiba ya Iran, uteuzi wa kiongozi mpya unapaswa kufanyika bila kuchelewa. Hata hivyo, wachambuzi wa masuala ya kisiasa wanasema kuwa hali ya kiusalama inayotokana na mashambulizi ya kijeshi inaweza kufanya mchakato huo kuwa mgumu zaidi.

Kadri pande husika zinavyoendelea kutoa matamshi makali, jumuiya ya kimataifa inaendelea kufuatilia kwa karibu hali hiyo, huku kukiwa na hofu ya kuzuka kwa vita pana zaidi katika eneo ambalo tayari limekumbwa na misukosuko ya muda mrefu.

Serikali ya Jamhuri ya Kiislamu ya Iran imetangaza rasmi kifo cha Kiongozi Mkuu wa nchi hiyo, Ali Khamenei, kufuatia mashambulizi ya anga yaliyoripotiwa kufanywa na Marekani kwa ushirikiano na Israel.

Tangazo hilo lililotolewa kupitia televisheni ya taifa ya Iran limesema kuwa Khamenei, mwenye umri wa miaka 86, aliuawa mapema Jumamosi asubuhi akiwa katika ofisi yake jijini Tehran. Serikali imetaja tukio hilo kuwa ni “kufikiwa kwa shahada” na imetangaza siku 40 za maombolezo ya kitaifa pamoja na siku kadhaa za mapumziko ya umma kote nchini.

Kwa mujibu wa taarifa rasmi, mashambulizi hayo yalilenga maeneo kadhaa nyeti, ikiwemo jengo la Leadership House — makao rasmi ya Kiongozi Mkuu. Uchambuzi wa picha za satelaiti umeonesha uharibifu mkubwa katika sehemu ya jengo hilo.

Awali, Rais wa Marekani, Donald Trump, alikuwa amesema katika mahojiano na vyombo vya habari vya Marekani kwamba anaamini Khamenei amefariki, ingawa alikiri kuwa anasubiri uthibitisho kamili. Trump pia alidai kuwa operesheni ya kijeshi dhidi ya Iran “imefanikiwa” na kwamba viongozi kadhaa wa juu wa Iran wameuawa.

Waziri Mkuu wa Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, naye alisema makao ya Khamenei mjini Tehran yaliharibiwa katika kile alichokiita “shambulio kali na la kushtukiza,” akidokeza kuwa kuna dalili kwamba kiongozi huyo “hayupo tena.”

Serikali ya Iran imeelezea tukio hilo kuwa ni “uhalifu wa wazi” na imeapa kulipiza kisasi. Msemaji wa Wizara ya Mambo ya Nje ya Iran amesema taifa hilo litachukua hatua kali dhidi ya Marekani na Israel, huku akiitaka Baraza la Usalama la Umoja wa Mataifa kuitisha kikao cha dharura kujadili hali hiyo.

Urusi imelaani mashambulizi hayo na kuonya kuwa yanaweza kusababisha mzozo mkubwa na usiodhibitika katika Mashariki ya Kati. Nchi hiyo imetoa wito wa kurejea katika mazungumzo ya kidiplomasia ili kuzuia kuongezeka kwa vita katika eneo hilo.

Kwa mujibu wa Katiba ya Iran, endapo Kiongozi Mkuu atafariki, Baraza la Wataalamu (Assembly of Experts) lina jukumu la kuchagua mrithi wake. Hatua hiyo inatarajiwa kufanyika katika mazingira ya mvutano wa kisiasa na kijeshi, huku jumuiya ya kimataifa ikifuatilia kwa karibu maendeleo yanayofuata.

Kifo cha Khamenei, ni tukio lenye athari kubwa katika siasa za ndani ya Iran na usalama wa Mashariki ya Kati kwa ujumla. Macho ya dunia sasa yameelekezwa Tehran na mwelekeo wa hatua zitakazochukuliwa katika kipindi hiki cha mpito.

The African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights (AfCHPR) has elected Honourable Justice Blaise Tchikaya of the Republic of Congo (Brazzaville) as its new President, succeeding Honourable Justice Modibo Sacko, whose term as President has ended. The election took place on 23 February 2026.

Honourable Justice Tchikaya will serve the remainder of the term of the outgoing President, Justice Modibo Sacko, who was elected on 2 June 2023 for a two-year term. Justice Sacko will continue to serve as a Judge of the Court. 

In his farewell speech, the outgoing President, Honourable Justice Sacko, expressed heartfelt gratitude to his fellow Judges, the Court’s Registry, staff members, and all stakeholders for their steadfast support and cooperation during his tenure.

In his acceptance speech, the newly elected President, Honourable Justice Tchikaya, conveyed his deep honor in assuming the new responsibility. 

He emphasized his commitment to upholding the Court’s mandate and reiterated his dedication to strengthening the Court’s role in the protection of human and peoples' rights across the African continent.

“I assume this responsibility with a profound sense of duty,” said Justice Tchikaya. “As we prepare for the 20th Anniversary celebrations of the Court, I look forward to working closely with my fellow Judges, the Registry, staff, and all stakeholders to reflect on the Court’s achievements and address the existing challenges.”

Justice Tchikaya also took the opportunity to express the Court's appreciation to Justice Sacko for his leadership and service during his term as President.

The new leadership Bureau now consists of Honourable Justice Blaise Tchikaya as President and Honourable Lady Justice Bensaoula Chafika from Algeria, who has been elected as Vice President of the Court.

The African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights (AfCHPR) is a continental institution established by African Union Member States to ensure the protection of human and peoples' rights in Africa.

 It serves as an organ of the African Union and complements the work of the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights. The Court is composed of eleven Judges elected in their individual capacities, who meet four times annually in Ordinary Sessions and may hold Extra-Ordinary Sessions when necessary.