Tanzania News Briefing: Key Political Developments and Updates for February 27, 2025
On February 27, 2025, significant news from Tanzania included CHADEMA’s launch of a citizen funding campaign, government support for President Samia Suluhu Hassan, EIB’s investment in climate resilience, ACT-Wazalendo’s call for accountability at Malindi port, and the release of Wilbrod Slaa after dropped charges.
Good morning! Here is your briefing from The Chanzo, summarizing the significant news stories reported in Tanzania on February 27, 2025.
The opposition party CHADEMA launched the Tone Tone (Drop by Drop) campaign to enhance citizen funding for local political initiatives. The campaign quickly gained traction on social media and integrates various digital payment platforms to facilitate contributions. Deputy Secretary-General Amani Golugwa emphasized the power of collective contributions, stating, “The essence of this campaign is that a single drop may seem insignificant, but when collected together, it forms rain, rivers, and oceans.” Secretary-General John Mnyika also underscored CHADEMA’s growth since its inception in 1995, encouraging public participation to support political change.
Government Chief Spokesperson Gerson Msigwa defended President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s record, stating that Tanzanians possess numerous reasons to vote for her in the upcoming general elections. In an interview with The Chanzo, he highlighted Samia’s vision, which includes reconciliation, resilience, reforms, and rebuilding, noting that she has excelled in these areas according to the Director General of Tanzania Information Services.
The European Investment Bank (EIB) has committed to financing a US$750 million Infrastructure Climate Resilient Fund alongside the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC). The EIB plans to invest approximately US$52.48 million, supporting sustainable infrastructure and climate adaptation across Africa. This initiative follows the AFC’s recent success in securing US$253 million from the Green Climate Fund, marking a significant investment in the region.
Opposition party ACT-Wazalendo has called for the Zanzibar government to terminate its contract with the operator of the Malindi port, citing consistent service failures. During a press conference, deputy national chairperson Ismail Jussa expressed dissatisfaction with the operational performance since the Zanzibar Multipurpose Terminal took over from the Zanzibar Ports Corporation, urging action for improvement.
In a notable development, Tanzanian prosecutors have dropped the charges against government critic Wilbrod Slaa, concluding his 48-day incarceration. Slaa, a former ambassador and opposition party secretary-general, was arrested on January 10 for allegedly disseminating false information on social media. Following the prosecution’s withdrawal, Slaa’s release raises questions about the legal motives behind his arrest and his claims regarding President Samia’s influence in political affairs.
In summary, significant developments in Tanzanian politics include CHADEMA’s innovative campaign to boost citizen engagement in local funding, government efforts to defend the President’s record, EIB’s financial backing for climate infrastructure, ACT-Wazalendo’s push for accountability at Malindi port, and the release of politician Wilbrod Slaa following dropped charges. These events collectively illustrate the dynamic political landscape in Tanzania.
Original Source: thechanzo.com