Antony Mvunde Ensuring environmental sustainability and resolving local conflicts

In a move aimed at ensuring environmental sustainability and resolving local conflicts, Minister for Minerals, Anthony Mavunde (MP), has ordered the immediate suspension of mining operations by G & I Tech Mining Company Ltd on the Zila River in Ifumbo Village, Chunya District. 

The suspension will remain in effect throughout the rainy season, pending a thorough environmental impact assessment.

Mavunde made the announcement during his visit to the area on December 30, 2024, where he toured the mining site that had been the center of escalating tensions between local residents and investors. 

The dispute was triggered by the destruction of investor property after the mining site was invaded by the villagers, resulting in significant damage and growing unrest.

"We have visited both the mining site and the surrounding areas, and it’s clear that immediate action is needed," said Mavunde. 

"It is the clear directive of President Dr. Samia S. Hassan that economic activities, particularly mining, should be carried out peacefully, without causing harm to the environment or local communities. I’ve listened to the concerns of the community about the environmental degradation of Zila River, and the government is committed to taking the necessary steps to protect it," he added.

Mavunde revealed that a team of environmental experts, together with regional specialists and community representatives, will be formed to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the mining activities' impact on the river. 

The goal is to determine whether mining operations can resume safely, without compromising the delicate ecosystem of Zila River.

"I urge all citizens to maintain peace and refrain from taking the law into their own hands. We strongly condemn the destruction of the investor’s property," Mavunde emphasized. "Let us work together to find solutions that benefit both the community and the environment."

The intervention has been widely welcomed by local leaders. Chunya District Commissioner, Hon. Mbarak Batenga, expressed his gratitude for the Minister’s visit, noting that the government’s proactive approach is a step toward a lasting resolution of the conflict. 

"This visit has brought hope for a peaceful and sustainable solution to the issues between the investor and the community. We will continue to enforce laws and regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of the area," he said.

On behalf of the community, Member of Parliament for Chunya, Hon. Masache Kasaka, thanked the government for addressing the concerns of the villagers. 

He also reiterated the importance of protecting Zila River, which serves as a crucial water source for the district. 

"Our priority is the protection of Zila River, as it sustains the livelihoods of many in our community," Kasaka said.

Mbeya Regional Commissioner, Hon. Juma Zuberi Homera, also commended Minister Mavunde’s swift action, assuring that the regional government would fully support the suspension of mining activities until the environmental assessment is completed and recommendations are made.

This collaborative approach signals a commitment to striking a balance between economic development and environmental protection, ensuring that both the investor and the community can coexist peacefully for the long term.

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Five teams confirm participation in volleyball Bonanza in Mwanza

Five volleyball teams have confirmed their participation in the upcoming Volleyball Bonanza scheduled for tomorrow at the Sabasaba Ground in Ilemela, Mwanza. 

The event is organized by the Mwanza Region Volleyball Association (MWAREVA), with the aim of fostering enthusiasm and unity among local volleyball players as they prepare for the new year.

The participating teams include BOT VV, Igombe VC, CUHAS VC, Buswelu Bulls, and Magu VC. The event coordinator, Ferdinand Malima, spoke to The Respondent Online and emphasized the importance of this bonanza in strengthening the volleyball community in the region.

“This bonanza is an opportunity to not only ignite the passion for volleyball among local players but also to encourage them to register with the Volleyball Federation of Tanzania (TVF),” Malima explained. 

He noted that TVF registration would enable players to take part in future national and international tournaments, broadening their exposure and competitive opportunities.

Malima further shared that the event aims to provide a platform for players to showcase their skills and compete in a friendly yet competitive atmosphere, setting a positive tone for the year ahead.

 The bonanza is expected to serve as an inspiration for both new and experienced players, motivating them to pursue further growth and development in the sport.

The first-place winner of the event will walk away with a cash prize of Sh. 30,000, while the second-place team will receive Sh. 10,000. 

This prize money is intended to further motivate players and teams to perform their best, with the added benefit of fostering a spirit of healthy competition within the local volleyball community.

The volleyball bonanza also provides an important opportunity for players, coaches, and fans to connect and share experiences, promoting a sense of unity within the sport.

 As part of the ongoing efforts to grow volleyball in the region, the event is expected to encourage more young players to get involved, as well as reinforce the commitment of existing teams to raise their standards of play.

Malima expressed his gratitude for the support from MWAREVA, which has played a crucial role in organizing the event, and hopes that it will become an annual feature to further develop volleyball in Mwanza and beyond

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Singida black stars appoint Hamdi Miloud as head coach

Singida Black Stars has officially announced the appointment of French national Hamdi Miloud as the club's new head coach on a one-and-a-half-year contract.

Miloud replaces Patrick Aussem, who previously held the head coach position.

Hussein Massanza, the club’s Public Relations and Communications Officer, confirmed that Miloud will be assisted by two assistant coaches, Nassim Anisse and David Ouma, as they prepare to lead the team after the break in January 2025.

"Ramadhani Nsanzurwimo, who had served as the interim head coach, has returned to his role as Director of Technical Affairs," Massanza added.

Coach Miloud brings a wealth of experience to the team, with an impressive track record in African football. 

He has reached the finals of the CAF Champions League, secured two quarterfinal appearances in the same competition, and reached the quarterfinals of the CAF Confederation Cup.

Miloud has coached a number of successful clubs across Africa, including USM Alger and JS Kabylie in Algeria, Al-Salmiya in Kuwait, TP Mazembe in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Athletico Marseille and ES Vitrolles in France, and Al-Ettifaq FC in Saudi Arabia.

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Construction of the Kimara - Bonyokwa - Kinyerezi road (7km) officially begins

The Minister of Works,  Abdallah Ulega, has conducted an official visit to inspect the construction of the 7-kilometer Kimara - Bonyokwa - Kinyerezi road in Dar es Salaam, emphasizing the urgency of expediting the construction of this strategic infrastructure project.

During the visit, Minister Ulega instructed the contractor, the locally-owned Nyanza Road Works company, to ensure round-the-clock work to complete the project swiftly and with the required quality.

“The work has officially commenced, and residents will soon witness progress in building this vital road. The contractor must ensure an adequate workforce is in place, with unskilled labor sourced from nearby communities, including Bonyokwa, as part of giving back to the community,” stated Minister Ulega.

Segerea MP Bonnah Kamoli supported the directive, emphasizing that temporary jobs created during the construction present opportunities for residents in Bonyokwa, Kinyerezi, Kimara, and surrounding areas.

This crucial road is expected to serve as a major link between the Ubungo and Segerea constituencies, improving transport services and stimulating economic growth in the region.

Minister Ulega assured that the government would oversee the project diligently while prioritizing timely payments to contractors.

“Nyanza Road Works has demonstrated a strong track record. We trust you and expect exceptional work on this project,” he added.

Residents living along the road corridor, including Kimara, Bonyokwa, and Kinyerezi, are hopeful that the project will address infrastructure and transportation challenges while boosting the local economy.

The road construction will include a 25-meter bridge, seven small culverts, and the installation of street lighting as part of the project requirements.

The construction of the 7-kilometer Kimara - Bonyokwa - Kinyerezi road in Dar es Salaam has officially commenced, following a site visit by the Minister of Works, Hon. Abdallah Ulega. The project is expected to significantly improve transportation and stimulate economic growth in the region.

During the visit, Minister Ulega directed the contractor, Nyanza Road Works, to fast-track the project by working around the clock to ensure timely completion while maintaining high standards.

“This crucial project has officially started, and residents will soon see tangible progress. The contractor must deploy sufficient personnel and prioritize employing unskilled labor from nearby communities, including Bonyokwa, as a way to give back to the local population,” said Minister Ulega.

Segerea MP Bonnah Kamoli echoed the minister’s call, emphasizing the importance of creating temporary jobs for residents of Bonyokwa, Kinyerezi, Kimara, and other neighboring areas during the construction phase.

The road is poised to become a major link between the Ubungo and Segerea constituencies, addressing long-standing transport challenges and enhancing economic opportunities for the communities it serves.

Minister Ulega assured stakeholders of the government’s commitment to overseeing the project with professionalism while ensuring timely payment to contractors.

“Nyanza Road Works has an impressive track record. We trust your expertise and expect nothing but top-quality work on this project,” he added.

Residents along the road corridor, including Kimara, Bonyokwa, and Kinyerezi, are optimistic about the project, anticipating better infrastructure, improved transport, and economic benefits.

The construction includes a 25-meter bridge, seven smaller culverts, and street lighting to enhance safety and usability. This comprehensive approach aims to deliver a modern, reliable road network that meets the needs of the growing urban population.

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Tanzanians urged to explore local tourist attractions to drive economic growth

Tanzanians have been urged to make the most of the festive season and holidays by visiting local tourist attractions to gain knowledge, enjoy themselves, and contribute to the national economy.

The call supports the ongoing efforts of the Sixth Phase Government, led by President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, who has been instrumental in promoting tourism as a key driver of economic growth.

Speaking in Dodoma, Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB) Marketing Director Ernest Mwamwaja underscored appreciating the country’s unique and diverse attractions.

“This festive season is an excellent opportunity for citizens to explore our natural and cultural heritage,” Mwamwaja said.

He added, “We have introduced a special campaign called ‘End the Year Smart, Tour Tanzania’ to encourage domestic tourism. This initiative targets Tanzanians across all age groups and runs through January 10, 2025.”

TTB is collaborating with journalists to amplify tourism promotion efforts, aligning with the CCM 2020-2025 Manifesto, which aims to attract five million tourists.

These initiatives also complement President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan’s broader vision to expand the tourism sector and enhance its contribution to national development.

“Through media engagement, we aim to reach a wider audience, inspiring more citizens to visit and experience Tanzania’s attractions. It is vital for all Tanzanians to seize this opportunity and take pride in our nation’s unparalleled beauty,” Mwamwaja emphasized.

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