Tanzania’s political landscape has witnessed significant shifts as the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party expelled Reverend Godfrey Malisa for opposing the endorsement of President Samia Suluhu Hassan and Zanzibar’s President Hussein Ali Hassan Mwinyi. The decision was confirmed by Kilimanjaro Regional Secretary Merce Mollel, who cited Malisa’s statements as a breach of party ethics and the constitution. His vocal criticism during the National Congress on January 19, 2025, led to his removal, emphasizing CCM’s firm stance on party unity and adherence to internal regulations. This development is expected to impact political alignments ahead of Tanzania’s upcoming general elections.
Economic and Aviation Boost: Air France Resumes Flights to Tanzania
After a 28-year hiatus, Air France has resumed direct flights to Tanzania, with three weekly services connecting Paris-Charles de Gaulle to Kilimanjaro International Airport via Zanzibar. The airline’s deployment of an Airbus A350-900 reflects its commitment to serving the growing number of French tourists and business travelers exploring Tanzania’s renowned destinations, such as Serengeti National Park and Zanzibar’s beaches.
This strategic re-entry into Tanzania’s aviation market is anticipated to bolster tourism and economic growth. Notably, a French organization recently donated $4,000 to a local primary school, underlining the broader socio-economic benefits of Air France’s renewed presence in the region. The increased accessibility to Tanzania is expected to enhance investment opportunities and trade relations between France and East Africa.
Cybersecurity Concerns: Crypto Scammers Target Tanzanian Billionaire’s Followers
Tanzanian billionaire and philanthropist Mohammed Dewji recently fell victim to cyber fraud as scammers hijacked his social media account to promote a fake digital asset known as the “Tanzania Token.” Leveraging deepfake technology, fraudsters duped Dewji’s 2.2 million followers into investing in the fraudulent scheme, amassing an estimated $1.48 million in illicit funds.
The billionaire, recognized as one of Africa’s youngest and most influential business figures, swiftly regained control of his account and cautioned followers against falling for similar scams. This incident underscores the increasing prevalence of cyber threats targeting high-profile individuals and highlights the urgent need for stronger cybersecurity measures to protect public figures and digital financial transactions in Tanzania.
Agriculture and Women’s Empowerment: Cassava Seed Business Transforms Lives
Tanzania is making significant strides in sustainable agriculture through the Muhogo Bora project, which aims to strengthen the cassava seed system and empower women farmers. Led by a partnership involving the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute, and Cornell University, the initiative seeks to remove barriers such as limited land access, financial constraints, and deep-rooted societal norms that hinder women’s participation in agribusiness.
The project has already begun yielding success stories. Saada Mkuyu, a 47-year-old farmer, shared how the program has enhanced her income and provided financial independence, allowing her to support her children’s education and invest in farming expansion. By addressing gender disparities in agriculture, this initiative is fostering economic resilience and promoting food security across Tanzania.
Social Issues: UNESCO and Tanzania Partner to Tackle Gender-Based Violence
In a bid to combat gender-based violence (GBV) in both digital and media landscapes, UNESCO has partnered with Tanzanian government ministries to integrate GBV prevention into the National Plan of Action for the Prevention of Violence Against Women and Children (2025-2029). This collaborative effort seeks to enhance policies, strengthen stakeholder capacities, and raise public awareness through educational campaigns.
A key aspect of this initiative is addressing cyber threats such as deepfake technology, online harassment, and AI-generated misinformation that disproportionately affect women and children. As Tanzania experiences rapid digitalization, UNESCO is advocating for ethical technology use and stronger regulations to protect vulnerable populations. The partnership also extends to media, tech companies, and civil society organizations to create safer online environments and promote gender equality in Tanzania’s digital landscape.
Conclusion: Tanzania’s Path Forward
From political shifts and economic revitalization to cybersecurity threats and social empowerment, Tanzania is navigating a dynamic landscape of change. The return of Air France marks a pivotal moment in the country’s tourism and trade sectors, while agricultural advancements are reshaping rural livelihoods. At the same time, cybersecurity challenges highlight the need for vigilance against digital fraud, and gender-based violence initiatives emphasize Tanzania’s commitment to fostering a safer and more inclusive society. As these developments unfold, Tanzania continues to position itself as a hub of growth, resilience, and innovation in East Africa.
