Catholic church supports tax payment for national development

The Archbishop of Dar es Salaam, Jude Thaddeus Ruwa'ichi, has reaffirmed the Catholic Church’s commitment to working alongside the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) to encourage citizens to pay their taxes, emphasizing that taxes are crucial for the country's development.

Archbishop Ruwa'ichi made this statement during a visit by TRA Commissioner General, Yusuph Juma Mwenda, to his home in Dar es Salaam. 

The visit was part of a broader initiative to thank taxpayers for their contributions.

"Paying taxes is an essential responsibility for every citizen, and it plays a key role in the development of our nation," said Archbishop Ruwa'ichi. 

"I am pleased with how the current tax system is operating and the strong relationship between the TRA and the people," he added.

The Archbishop assured that the Church would continue encouraging people to understand the importance of paying taxes for their own development.

"I commend TRA for its fairness in tax collection. You ensure that everyone is treated equally, and that is something we fully support," he said.

He also praised TRA’s approach to collecting taxes based on people's ability to pay, ensuring that the revenue benefits all citizens, regardless of their background. 

Archbishop Ruwa'ichi promised the Church’s continued support in these efforts.

TRA Commissioner General Mwenda expressed gratitude to Archbishop Ruwa'ichi for his role in promoting tax compliance. He also highlighted the contribution of Catholic institutions, especially in education and healthcare, to tax revenue.

"December is the month we dedicate to thanking taxpayers, and we appreciate the role of Catholic institutions in supporting tax collection," said Mwenda. 

"At times, these institutions are granted tax exemptions per the law," he added.

Mwenda praised the Archbishop’s commitment to raising awareness about taxes.

"You’ve been a strong advocate for tax issues, and we are grateful for the partnership we’ve built with Church institutions. We hope you continue to support us in 2025," he said.

The Commissioner General also emphasized that paying taxes is a patriotic act, as tax revenue supports the development of education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

"Religious institutions have a significant role in this effort, and we will continue working together to ensure fair tax collection, making sure that no one is treated unfairly," Mwenda concluded.

TRA remains dedicated to helping citizens willingly fulfill their tax obligations, contributing to the nation’s growth and prosperity.

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Bagonza calls for unity in curbing misguided religious teachings, urges leaders to uphold integrity

      

Bishop Benson Bagonza of the Karagwe Diocese of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania (ELCT) recently addressed a growing and alarming issue facing religious communities today: the rise of misleading and distorted teachings. 

His comments, made during a pivotal meeting on December 27, 2024, held in Karagwe, shed light on the detrimental impact these teachings are having on both Christian and Muslim communities in Tanzania.

 In his passionate address, Bishop Bagonza warned that what starts as minor distortions in religious doctrine can quickly escalate into harmful lies, leading people away from the true message of faith. "What begins as a distortion, becomes a lie," he said, calling on religious leaders to take a stand and protect the integrity of their teachings.

This crucial meeting was not just a forum for Christian leaders but included Muslim leaders as well, making it an interfaith conversation about a common issue that transcends denominations. 

Together, leaders from the Christian Council of Tanzania (CCT), Pentecostal communities, and the Muslim faith united under the shared goal of addressing these misleading teachings, which are not only corrupting spiritual lives but also weakening the social fabric of Tanzanian society.

The event, guided by the leadership of the Karagwe Diocese, highlighted the escalating use of distorted religious practices to exploit people's vulnerabilities for personal gain. 

"People are using others' struggles for personal benefit, and that has far-reaching consequences," Bishop Bagonza stated. "These harmful practices not only affect the individual believer but also their families, the peace of the community, and the stability of the nation." 

His words resonated deeply as they spoke to the need for unity, accountability, and integrity within religious communities.

One of the most alarming examples of this exploitation is the selling of ‘holy’ items like salt, water, or cloth as spiritual remedies. This practice, Bishop Bagonza explained, has become widespread in some churches, where pastors manipulate their followers’ desperation for spiritual solutions. 

"It is a distortion of the sacred gospel," he said. "The selling of holy water or salt is an abuse of the faith, and it does nothing to help those seeking guidance or healing."

Such distortions, he noted, are not limited to a single denomination but are found across many. He warned that even within his own Lutheran community, there were pastors who were veering away from biblical teachings, using their positions for financial gain or to exploit their followers' vulnerabilities. 

He pointed out that this was a systemic problem, with leaders in various denominations, from Lutherans to Pentecostals, using their pulpits to promote false doctrines. 

"These leaders may either be ignorant of the truth or they may be deliberately misleading their congregations to enrich themselves," he said, urging his fellow pastors to take a stand against these dangerous trends.

During the meeting, several leaders shared personal experiences of how they had witnessed the damaging effects of these false teachings. Some spoke of practices like forcing women to meet marriage requirements before the consummation of their union or manipulating couples by blessing their marriages before they even came together as husband and wife. 

These actions, they agreed, were not only unbiblical but were deeply harmful to the sanctity of marriage and family life. "We cannot allow such practices to continue," Bishop Bagonza declared. "They undermine the very foundations of society."

Such misleading teachings are not confined to Tanzania. Across the globe, similar issues have arisen, with leaders exploiting religious faith for personal power and financial gain. In the United States, for example, the prosperity gospel movement has flourished.

 Televangelists, such as Kenneth Copeland and Joel Osteen, have faced criticism for preaching that material wealth and success are signs of divine favor, often encouraging followers to donate large sums of money in exchange for financial blessings. 

These teachings, critics argue, distort the true message of Christianity, which emphasizes humility, charity, and spiritual growth rather than material wealth.

In Africa, the situation is equally troubling. In Nigeria, Pastor David Oyedepo, the founder of the Living Faith Church, has been accused of promoting a “wealth gospel” that aligns with the prosperity teachings seen in the West. 

Oyedepo, whose church operates one of the largest Christian universities in the world, has often preached about the power of tithing and offering in receiving blessings. While the practice of tithing is rooted in biblical tradition, critics argue that it is being misused to enrich church leaders at the expense of their congregations. 

"The gospel of prosperity is misleading the faithful into believing that their financial status is directly tied to their faith," one Nigerian critic noted. "This message creates a cycle of exploitation."

Meanwhile, in Asia, misleading religious teachings have taken different forms. In South Korea, a church called the Shincheonji Church of Jesus gained international attention for its controversial practices. 

The church, led by Lee Man-hee, has been accused of brainwashing followers, including recruiting young people under pretenses and isolating them from their families.

 The group has also been linked to a major COVID-19 outbreak in the country, drawing sharp criticism for its lack of transparency and accountability. Critics argue that groups like Shincheonji exploit vulnerable individuals seeking meaning in their lives, only to use them for financial gain or to advance the church’s agenda.

Similarly, in India, there has been a rise in self-proclaimed spiritual gurus who prey on the vulnerable. Many of these gurus, such as Baba Ramdev and Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, have been involved in scandals ranging from sexual abuse to fraudulent business practices.

 Despite these controversies, they continue to attract large followers, with some even claiming miraculous powers of healing. These figures use their spiritual authority to manipulate their followers, often masking their misdeeds with promises of wealth, health, or divine favor.

The issue of misguided teachings is not just confined to any one faith or region but is a global challenge, affecting countless believers who are vulnerable to exploitation. 

As Bishop Bagonza put it, the responsibility lies with all religious leaders to ensure that their teachings are grounded in truth and integrity. He also emphasized the importance of education, both for religious leaders and their followers, to help them distinguish between authentic and misleading teachings.

“We must guide our people with truth, compassion, and wisdom,” said Bishop Bagonza. “If we don’t stand up against these distortions, we risk losing the very essence of our faith. We must remain grounded in the Word of God, and we must teach our followers to do the same.”

As the meeting came to a close, the leaders reflected on the importance of collaboration in tackling this global issue. “This is not just a Tanzanian problem; it’s a global issue,” Bishop Bagonza said. “We must unite, stand firm, and protect the integrity of our faiths.”

Looking ahead to 2025, Bishop Bagonza’s message was clear: it is essential to continue speaking out against false teachings and to create an environment where the truth is upheld above all else. Whether in Tanzania, the United States, Nigeria, or South Korea, the message is universal: only through honesty, integrity, and a return to true religious principles can religious communities thrive and fulfill their calling to serve others.

At the Biblical Counselling and Intercession Centre, under Wapo Mission International, Assistant Bishop Michael Peter Iman has strongly opposed celebrating Christmas, calling December 25 a pagan holiday with no biblical basis. "Jesus was not born on this date, and it’s not a biblical celebration," Iman stated. 

While some church members, particularly those from other Christian denominations, still secretly observe Christmas, Iman insists that Christians should reject such traditions. This controversy highlights a broader debate over religious observance, with some advocating for a return to biblical teachings amidst the commercialization of faith. The issue remains divisive within the congregation.

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Veteran pastor Moses Magembe’s dramatic exit from TAG sparks nationwide debate

The transition of leadership at TAG’s Majumba Sita congregation has been a point of contention. Photo: Courtesy

By Adonis Byemelwa

Renowned Pastor Moses Magembe’s decision to part ways with the Tanzania Assemblies of God (TAG) church has sparked widespread debate, leaving many followers and observers puzzled. 

After more than five decades of unwavering devotion to the church, the Pastor announced his resignation in a move that has ignited passionate debates across the nation, both online and offline, raising profound questions about the leadership and future trajectory of Christianity in Tanzania.

In a viral video, the veteran pastor outlined three pivotal reasons for his decision to step away from TAG, which he described as a deeply personal and spiritual choice. 

His first and most significant reason was his growing dissatisfaction with TAG leadership, which he accused of misinterpreting his intentions to reform and inspire the church. 

Magembe has been vocal about what he sees as a departure from Christian values within modern churches, including TAG.

“For years, I have said openly that the church has strayed. Many churches, not just TAG, have lost their way and are now on life support. This isn’t about malice; it’s the truth, and I’ve been unafraid to speak it,” Magembe said in the video. 

However, his criticism was met with resistance, with some leaders accusing him of targeting TAG unfairly. He clarified that his comments were directed at the global church and aimed at fostering spiritual revival.

The second reason for Magembe’s departure involved allegations from TAG leadership concerning his actions outside the church’s framework. 

Magembe defended his decision to bless his son, Yohana Magembe, who established a ministry in Canada, stating that his role as a spiritual leader extended beyond organizational boundaries. 

“When my son, who has worked alongside me for years, launched his ministry, I had to bless him. This is not a sin—it’s a tradition of faith. Yet, I was accused of using TAG resources to support his work, which is a complete fabrication,” he said.

His third reason was deeply personal—Magembe felt his presence in TAG had become a source of tension. “I’ve served this church faithfully for over half a century. But I realized it was time to move forward and allow others to take charge. I wanted to avoid further conflicts and focus on leading a ministry aligned with my calling,” he explained. 

Magembe has since launched a new ministry in Kinyerezi, near ATN Filling Station, where services have already begun despite the humble setting. 

He described the establishment of the ministry as a leap of faith, with support from congregants who shared his vision.

The departure, however, was not without controversy. TAG leaders, including Assistant Bishop Magnus Mpendakula Mhiche, have pushed back against Magembe’s claims, portraying him as a divisive figure. 

“We respect Pastor Magembe’s contributions, but his comments about TAG being in ICU were not only hurtful but also misleading. He chose to leave, and we accepted his decision,” Mhiche said. 

The bishop also revealed that Magembe’s ministry had been linked to fundraising efforts involving TAG members, a breach of the church’s policies.

Magembe did not leave empty-handed but ensured a clear handover of TAG’s assets under his care. He formally transferred properties, including a Land Cruiser, a secondary school with dormitories, and a large three-acre plot, back to the church. 

“I’ve handed over everything that belongs to TAG through my lawyer. But I also took my personal belongings, which I had brought in, such as speakers and other items I used in my ministry,” he said.

Magembe’s son, Yohana, has also entered the fray, defended his father, and criticized TAG leadership for what he described as unfounded and disrespectful accusations. 

“My father has worked tirelessly for this church and should be celebrated, not vilified. Claims that he used TAG resources to establish a new ministry are baseless. As his assistant for years, I can vouch for his integrity,” Yohana said. 

He further accused TAG leaders of undermining his father’s legacy and failing to recognize his invaluable contributions.

The transition of leadership at TAG’s Majumba Sita congregation has also been a point of contention. Mhiche confirmed that Pastor Danstan Kanemba would take over the church’s leadership. 

While wishing Magembe well in his new endeavor, Mhiche issued a cautionary note to congregants considering joining the new ministry. “Before following any new path, ask yourself: what are the foundations of this ministry? Who is in charge, and how is it structured? A ministry centered on a single family with no checks and balances is a red flag,” he warned.

Despite the challenges, Magembe remains steadfast in his mission. He described the first service at his new ministry as a testament to God’s faithfulness, with congregants rallying to support the vision. 

“We started with almost nothing, but God provided. One member even donated all the roofing sheets we used. This is just the beginning,” he said.

Magembe’s departure has underlined broader tensions within religious institutions in Tanzania. Recent years have seen a spate of controversies involving church leaders, including allegations of financial misconduct and exploitation of congregants. 

Notably, a pastor from the Democratic Republic of Congo was recently expelled from Tanzania after demanding exorbitant fees for prayer services, a scandal that drew widespread condemnation.

TAG leaders, however, remain resolute in their commitment to upholding the church’s principles. Mhiche emphasized that the church would continue to thrive despite the setbacks. 

“TAG has faced challenges before, and we’ve always come out stronger. We are already working to improve the facilities at Majumba Sita to better serve our congregants,” said Mhiche amid applause.

As the dust settles, Magembe’s decision to forge a new path raises important questions about leadership, accountability, and the role of tradition in modern faith practices. 

For some, his move represents a bold step toward revival; for others, it highlights the fragility of unity within religious institutions. Whatever the perspective, the impact of Magembe’s departure will be felt for years to come.

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Bishop Malasusa’s extended tenure: stability or suppressed dissent in ELCT?

 The cleric’s candidacy, while technically compliant, reignited debates about fairness and transparency Photo: Courtesy

By Adonis Byemelwa

The decision to extend Bishop Alex Malasusa’s tenure as the head of the Eastern and Coastal Diocese (ECD) of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania (ELCT) has sparked mixed reactions among clergy and congregants across the dioceses. 

The announcement, put in limelight by Upendo Media via social platforms, revealed that the extension was unanimously approved during the 37th General Assembly of the ECD. This decision allows Bishop Malasusa to continue leading the diocese until he completes his term as the national head of the ELCT in 2028.

The move to extend Malasusa’s tenure was defended by the ECD council, which argued that it would enable him to fulfill his responsibilities as the presiding bishop of the ELCT without undue pressure. 

The council emphasized that the dual roles require stability and continuity in leadership, particularly during a pivotal period for the church.

However, the decision has not been universally welcomed. Clergy members from various dioceses, many of whom requested anonymity, expressed reservations about the process. 

Some voiced concerns over transparency, questioning whether the extension disregarded constitutional provisions that limit terms of service. 

One pastor remarked, “While we respect Bishop Malasusa’s leadership, the church must adhere strictly to its constitution. This decision sets a precedent that could undermine institutional integrity.”

Others, however, supported the extension, viewing it as necessary for maintaining unity within the church. A senior pastor stated, “The ELCT is navigating significant challenges both internally and externally. Bishop Malasusa has the experience and composure needed to steer us through these times.”

Bishop Malasusa’s leadership has been a subject of both admiration and controversy. He previously held the presiding bishop role from 2007 to 2015 before passing the mantle to Bishop Fredrick Shoo. 

His reelection in August 2023 was met with criticism, with some questioning the eligibility of a former presiding bishop to run for the position again under the ELCT’s constitution. 

Article 21 of the revised ELCT constitution stipulates that candidates for presiding bishop must currently serve as diocesan bishops and be below the retirement age of 65. Malasusa’s candidacy, while technically compliant, reignited debates about fairness and transparency.

Adding to the contentious atmosphere, the election process itself drew scrutiny. Initial rounds of voting in the August 2023 general assembly did not produce a candidate with the required two-thirds majority.

 After three rounds, Malasusa was declared the winner based on a simple majority, securing 167 out of 241 votes cast in the final round. 

While his supporters celebrated the victory, critics like Bishop Benson Bagonza, known for his vocal stance on governance issues, openly challenged the legitimacy of the process.

Bishop Benson Bagonza of the Karagwe Diocese has publicly questioned the transparency of Bishop Alex Malasusa's election, highlighting frustrations over internal conflicts within the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania (ELCT).

 Ongoing disputes, such as those in the Konde Diocese, underscore tensions between diocesan autonomy and centralized authority, exacerbated by the lack of clear constitutional mechanisms for conflict resolution.

Amid these challenges, Malasusa has pledged to prioritize unity and address critical issues. His January 2024 inauguration as ELCT's national head, attended by President Samia Suluhu Hassan, emphasized his leadership responsibilities, with calls for justice and courage resonating through a sermon by Dr. Christian Samraj.

 Nevertheless, debates over proposed constitutional reforms continue to divide opinions, with some viewing them as necessary for clarity and others fearing they could undermine diocesan independence.

Amid these debates, many pastors have called for introspection and dialogue. “The ELCT is at a crossroads,” said one clergyman. “We must focus on our mission and values while resolving these internal disputes with humility and grace.”

 Another pastor added, “This is a time for reconciliation, not division. We need to work together to ensure that the church remains a beacon of hope and faith for all.”

Bishop Malasusa’s extended term as ECD head signifies both an opportunity and a challenge. While his leadership offers continuity, the controversies surrounding his reelection and the broader governance issues within the ELCT highlight the need for clear communication, transparency, and a renewed commitment to unity. 

The decision to extend Bishop Alex Malasusa’s term as the head of the Eastern and Coastal Diocese of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania has been a polarizing topic. 

Church leaders unanimously endorsed the move, emphasizing its necessity to allow him to complete his duties as the national head of the ELCT, a position he holds until 2028.

Supporters heralded the decision as a practical step toward stability, with many citing his extensive experience and steady leadership as crucial during a time of internal and external challenges for the church.

Behind the scenes, however, dissenting voices have grown quieter. Critics within the church, particularly those opposing the extension, have seen their influence muted in subtle yet effective ways. 

Social media platforms and WhatsApp groups once brimming with fiery debates and critiques now appear cleansed of dissenting posts. Observers note that messages critical of Malasusa or the election process have been deleted or silenced, leaving little room for opposing narratives to gain traction.

The muted dissent reflects the weight of Malasusa’s influence and the broader push within the ELCT to project unity. The election process itself had its share of controversies, with multiple voting rounds required to secure Malasusa’s victory. 

Questions over constitutional adherence and fairness swirled, particularly as critics like Bishop Benson Bagonza expressed dissatisfaction both publicly and privately. Yet, those raising concerns about governance and transparency now find themselves sidelined.

Supporters of Malasusa argue that these measures are necessary to prevent further division within the church. 

His proponents maintain that the church’s mission of spiritual leadership and social unity is paramount, and distractions from internal politics risk undermining that purpose. 

In their view, extending his term ensures continuity at a critical time when the church faces mounting challenges, from societal issues to internal governance disputes.

The ELCT, celebrating six decades of ministry, stands at a crossroads. While the decision to extend Malasusa’s leadership marks a moment of consolidation for his supporters, it also signals a clear message to dissenters. 

Those unwilling to align with the prevailing direction find their platforms dwindling, their criticisms relegated to whispers. For the broader congregation, the path forward will hinge on reconciling these internal rifts, addressing legitimate concerns about governance, and fostering a spirit of unity that transcends personal or political divides.

The church’s next steps will determine whether it emerges stronger and more united or burdened by unresolved tensions. 

As the ELCT navigates this delicate balance, the muted voices within its ranks are a stark reminder of the complexities inherent in leading one of Tanzania’s most influential spiritual institutions. 

Bishop Malasusa’s extended term may bring stability, but the cost of dissent being stifled is a question that lingers among those watching from within and beyond.

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Prof. Mkumbo calls for unity and celebrates national achievements at the ELCT Assembly

 

By Adonis Byemelwa

Minister for Planning and Investment, Prof. Kitila Mkumbo on December, 8th 2024, (pictured) opened the 37th General Assembly of the Eastern and Coastal Diocese (DMP) of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania (ELCT) with a compelling call for unity and progress. 

He highlighted the critical role of collaboration between the government, private sector, and religious institutions in driving national development. Specifically, Prof. Mkumbo highlighted the ELCT's invaluable contribution to Tanzania’s Vision 2025, particularly in sectors like education, health, and infrastructure.

“ELCT has proven what Tanzania can achieve when we work together. Their model of self-reliance and commitment to national development aligns perfectly with the government’s own goals,” Mkumbo said, noting that the church's initiatives not only complement but enhance the government’s broader strategies.

Speaking as the guest of honor, he lauded the church’s active participation in national development, highlighting its alignment with the government’s Vision 2025 agenda. 

Prof. Mkumbo emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and religious institutions, citing the ELCT’s significant role in the country’s development, particularly in education, health, and infrastructure.

"ELCT has shown what Tanzanians can achieve through hard work and unity. The church's model of self-reliance is truly inspiring, and its efforts complement the government’s development plans," Prof. Mkumbo said. 

He noted that the church’s dedication to advancing public-private partnerships is a testament to the potential for synergy between the state and religious organizations in driving the nation forward.

Prof. Mkumbo further stressed the importance of building upon the nation’s progress, pointing to key achievements in sectors like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. 

The minister proudly noted that maternal deaths have dropped significantly from 770 to 265 per 100,000 live births, illustrating the impact of improved healthcare systems.

 He also highlighted the progress in secondary school enrollment, which has risen from 20% to 70%, and access to clean water, now reaching 70% of the population.

"These are just a few examples of the tangible progress we are making," he remarked, emphasizing that such developments are integral to Tanzania’s path to middle-income status.

He also mentioned how Tanzania has made significant strides in other areas, including electricity access, which has risen from 10% in 2000 to 78% today. 

Additionally, paved road networks have expanded from 4,000 kilometers in 2000 to 12,000 kilometers, with a target of 13,000 kilometers by 2025. 

"We are making real progress in our infrastructure and services, but we must continue to work together to ensure that all Tanzanians benefit from these developments," Prof. Mkumbo stated.

The minister also stressed the importance of upholding social values, urging Tanzanians to avoid focusing on the negative aspects of society, like filming accidents or crimes instead of helping those in need. 

"Our shared humanity should be our priority," he said, calling for a renewed sense of compassion and solidarity. "This is the true essence of progress."

The opening service, which was broadcast live on ELCT Upendo Television, was led by Dr. Alex Malasusa, a key figure in the church. 

He began by emphasizing the importance of respecting time during worship services. He urged leaders and members alike to understand that services must be timely and organized, particularly when influential figures such as government officials are present.

“It is essential to manage our time well in worship so that we can honor both God and those around us,” he said, urging congregants to reflect on the discipline of worship.

Dr. Malasusa also addressed the issue of mobile phone use during services, which has become a growing concern. He condemned the practice, pointing out that it undermines the sanctity of worship and sets a poor example for younger members.

 “We must respect the sacredness of our gatherings,” he emphasized, stressing that such distractions could mislead the next generation into thinking that such behaviors are acceptable in the church.

Looking to the future, Dr. Malasusa outlined the diocese’s two-year strategic plan, which is focused on advancing key areas such as education, healthcare, and spiritual growth. 

He also took the opportunity to express gratitude to international partners, such as the Union of Evangelical Mission, Dan Mission, and the Norwegian Church, for their ongoing support. Their representatives were in attendance, further strengthening the bonds of collaboration between the church and global partners.

"Peace is a national treasure, and we must do everything to preserve it," Dr. Malasusa said, condemning acts of mob justice and urging the congregation to follow the rule of law.

He referred to a recent incident involving the tragic death of a Tanzania Revenue Authority employee, which he said was a direct result of citizens taking justice into their own hands. “This behavior only weakens our society,” he noted, calling on leaders to address these issues with urgency.

As the diocese sets its sights on the future, Prof. Mkumbo's words resonated with the theme of shared responsibility and commitment to the nation’s development. 

“We must continue to prioritize collaboration and unity in all aspects of life,” he concluded, reinforcing the need for both the church and government to work together for the betterment of Tanzania.

The assembly served as a powerful reminder of the ELCT’s integral role in shaping Tanzania’s future. As Dr. Malasusa and Prof. Mkumbo made clear, the path forward will require both faith and action, with the church and government standing together to tackle the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

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