TRC TO CREATE 2,460 JOBS IN SGR

The Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC) is set to employ 2,460 workers in the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) project for two sections from Dar es Salaam to Makutopora.

These jobs are in addition to more than 115,000 jobs that have already been created by contractors in sections one through six.

Of the 2,460 jobs, the implementation will be in phases: in the 2024/25 financial year, more than 500 employees were already recruited, while in the 2025/26 financial year, 272 workers are expected to be employed. TRC will continue hiring until the target of 2,460 employees is reached.

While the official employment process by TRC continues, a total of 115,000 jobs from contractors have already benefited Tanzanians, including youth with primary school education as well as those with higher levels of education in various fields.

The breakdown of these 115,000 contractor jobs shows that 35,000 are direct jobs, while more than 80,000 are indirect, involving groups such as food vendors, motorcycle taxi (bodaboda) operators, three-wheeler (bajaji) operators, and service providers from various telecommunications companies (such as mobile money agents, SIM card vendors, etc.).

The provision of these jobs is in line with the government’s directive that all state-invested projects must benefit Tanzanians, particularly those living around the project areas, as well as others depending on the skills and qualifications required.

Revolutionary Eye Implant Restores Vision in Legally Blind Patients

In a historic breakthrough, Science Corporation has developed an eye implant named Prima that has restored vision for legally blind patients, marking the first successful use of such technology. The implant functions by converting light into electrical signals that the brain processes as images, enabling trial participants to perform tasks like reading, recognizing faces, and even playing cards.

Designed to combat vision loss from advanced age-related macular degeneration, this innovation represents a transformative step in retinal prosthesis technology, potentially offering new hope for millions affected by severe visual impairment.

Musalia Mudavadi Appointed Acting National Security Minister as Prof. Kindiki Prepares for Swearing-In as Deputy President

Kenya's top-ranking official, Musalia Mudavadi, has been appointed as the Acting National Security Minister following the reassignment of Prof. Kithure Kindiki to the role of Deputy President. This appointment comes just hours after an official government gazette announcement confirmed that Prof. Kindiki will be sworn in as Deputy President on Friday.

Prof. Kindiki was selected for the Deputy President position following the removal of Rigathi Gachagua. According to the October 31, 2024, government gazette, Kindiki’s swearing-in ceremony will take place at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on November 1, 2024, between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m.

Beauty Queen Chidimma Adetshina to Be Stripped of South African Identity Amid Nationality Dispute

Chidimma Adetshina, the beauty queen entangled in a heated nationality debate, is set to lose her South African identity and travel documents, as announced by South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs on Tuesday. The investigation into her eligibility began after she became a finalist in the Miss South Africa pageant, sparking public scrutiny over her South African nationality due to her Nigerian and Mozambican parentage.

In August, Ms. Adetshina, a law student, withdrew from the Miss South Africa contest when Home Affairs revealed her mother might have obtained her South African citizenship through "identity theft." Following her withdrawal, Adetshina was invited to compete in Miss Universe Nigeria, a title she later won.

Department of Home Affairs Director-General Tommy Makhode told a parliamentary committee that both Adetshina and her mother missed a deadline to defend their eligibility, leading to the decision to revoke their documents. The case has since been referred to the Hawks, a special police unit specializing in serious crimes, who concluded it as a "case of fraud." Prosecutors are now reviewing the findings.

Despite the controversy, Ms. Adetshina, who asserts she was born in Soweto, expressed her pride in both her South African and Nigerian heritage. She is now representing Nigeria at the Miss Universe competition in Mexico on November 16, competing alongside Mia le Roux, this year’s Miss South Africa.

Tanzania and Russia Sign Key Agreements to Strengthen Trade and Economic Cooperation

The governments of Tanzania and Russia have signed significant agreements aimed at enhancing trade and economic collaboration between the two nations. The signing ceremony took place in Dar es Salaam, concluding the inaugural session of the Joint Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation.

The two-day event featured several sessions, including expert meetings, the main joint commission activities, and an investment forum. These efforts underscore both countries’ commitment to bolstering bilateral relations and exploring mutual economic opportunities.

President Samia Heads to U.S. for Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue

President Samia Suluhu Hassan is set to depart today for Des Moines, Iowa, USA, to attend the Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue organized by the World Food Prize Foundation.

According to a statement from the Presidential Communications Directorate, President Samia is among four African leaders invited to participate in this high-profile event, which will convene global leaders, experts, prominent figures, and policymakers, particularly those focused on agriculture, nutrition, and resource management.

The dialogue aims to address solutions to global food security challenges, exacerbated by climate change, underscoring the urgency of sustainable food production strategies worldwide.

Rodri Wins 2024 Ballon d'Or, Recognizing Midfield Talent in Global Football

Paris, France – The 2024 Ballon d'Or awards ceremony took place on October 28, with Manchester City and Spain’s Rodri Hernández claiming the prestigious Men’s Player of the Year award. At 27, Rodri's victory is seen as a win for midfield players, who are often overlooked in major football awards favoring more attacking roles.

The selection has stirred mixed reactions from some fans and football analysts, who have voiced discontent with the results. Rodri topped a competitive list of ten finalists, including notable talents Vinicius Jr, Jude Bellingham, Dani Carvajal, Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappé, Lautaro Martinez, Lamine Yamal, Toni Kroos, and Harry Kane.

Manchester United Parts Ways with Manager Erik ten Hag Amid Poor Start

Manchester United has officially parted ways with manager Erik ten Hag following a challenging start to the Premier League season, having accumulated only 11 points from nine games. Although Ten Hag’s contract was extended earlier this year, club executives expressed dwindling confidence in his ability to turn around the team’s performance.

Ruud van Nistelrooy, former United striker, will step in as interim manager, with his first game slated for the Carabao Cup match against Leicester City. This managerial shift follows an internal review that highlighted significant concerns about the team’s trajectory and future prospects for European qualification.

Qatar Unveils Plans for Eco-Floating Hotel with Panoramic Persian Gulf Views

Qatar has announced an ambitious project: an 8.6-acre floating luxury resort named The Eco-Floating Hotel, to be situated on the Persian Gulf. This five-star resort, set to be an architectural and environmental marvel, will offer 152 rooms and rotate slowly throughout the day, powered by water currents to generate its own electricity.

The design minimizes energy loss and achieves zero waste, offering luxurious amenities like a glass-floored lobby with views of the Gulf's marine life, mini golf, indoor and outdoor pools, a gym, spa, sauna, and a basketball court. Access is via a pier, boat, or helicopter, providing exclusive transport options for guests.

Finance Minister Dr. Nchemba Meets World Bank Regional Executive Director for East and Southern Africa

Tanzania’s Minister for Finance, Dr. Mwigulu Lameck Nchemba Madelu (MP), held discussions with the World Bank Executive Director for the Africa Group 1 Constituency, Dr. Floribert Ngaruko, at the World Bank Headquarters in Washington D.C. The meeting centered on strengthening the partnership between Tanzania and the World Bank.

During the talks, Tanzania emphasized its request for Swahili to be recognized as an official language in World Bank meetings, highlighting its significance in the social and economic development of Africa and globally. Also present was the Minister of State from the President’s Office, Finance, and Planning in Zanzibar, Dr. Saada Mkuya Salum, who joined the discussions to support Tanzania’s advocacy for Swahili inclusion at the World Bank.

Minister Simbachawene Calls for Mandatory Induction Training for New Government Employees

The Minister for State in the President’s Office responsible for Public Service Management and Good Governance, George Simbachawene, has urged the Public Service College and employers to ensure that all new government employees receive induction training to enhance their performance as they enter public service.

Minister Simbachawene made these remarks during an official visit to the Public Service College’s Dar es Salaam campus, where he engaged with college staff and emphasized the importance of foundational training.

"Make sure that all new government employees receive induction training to build a strong foundation for effective service delivery," he stressed.

The Minister further highlighted the Public Service College's crucial role in providing short-term training programs for public servants, including induction courses. He called on the college to continue innovating to ensure that all new recruits receive essential orientation to uphold high standards of public service.

Tanzania to Establish Forests in Every District to Boost Conservation and Carbon Trading

Dr. Ashatu Kijaji, Minister for State in the Vice President’s Office (Union and Environment), has announced Tanzania’s plan to establish forests in every district as part of a comprehensive environmental conservation strategy.

The initiative aims to enhance biodiversity, combat climate change, and enable districts to engage in carbon trading, while empowering local communities to manage forests sustainably for economic benefits.

During her visit to Kilindi district in Tanga, Dr. Kijaji highlighted that this district-wide tree-planting effort would expedite participation in carbon markets compared to individual projects. She noted that successful reforestation would help mitigate climate impacts, including rising temperatures and erratic rainfall.

Nigeria Partners with Zipline for Drone-Delivered Healthcare

Nigeria has partnered with drone company Zipline to deliver medical supplies to remote areas, aiming to expand healthcare access nationwide. Since launching in Kaduna State in 2022, Zipline has expanded to two other states, delivering vaccines and essential supplies to underserved communities.

This collaboration supports Nigeria’s goal of equitable healthcare access, with Zipline providing streamlined logistics alongside global partners like Pfizer and Walmart. Local leaders have praised the initiative’s positive impact on healthcare delivery.

Tanzania's President Congratulates Mozambique's President-Elect on Election Victory

On behalf of the Government and the people of Tanzania, President Samia Suluhu Hassan has extended warm congratulations to His Excellency Daniel Francisco Chapo, the President-elect of Mozambique, on his victory in the 2024 Mozambican General Election.

In her message, President Samia expressed her anticipation for strengthening the longstanding historic, economic, and diplomatic ties between Tanzania and Mozambique. "I am looking forward to working together in fostering the historic, economic, and diplomatic relations between Tanzania and Mozambique," President Samia remarked.

The message highlights Tanzania's commitment to reinforcing regional collaboration and supporting mutual development between the two neighboring nations.

Saudi Arabia Begins Construction on Mukaab, Set to Be World's Largest Building by Volume

Saudi Arabia has commenced construction on the Mukaab, a 400-meter-tall cube-shaped skyscraper in Riyadh, which is poised to become the world’s largest building by volume upon completion.

As the focal point of the New Murabba district, the Mukaab will feature a vast range of cultural and entertainment venues, in addition to two million square meters of retail space and a spiraling central tower at its core.

Funded by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, this monumental project is a key part of the country's Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify the economy and establish Riyadh as a leading global center for tourism and innovation.

The Mukaab symbolizes Saudi Arabia's ambitious efforts to reshape its urban landscape and expand its presence on the world stage.

French President Macron Launches Fundraising Conference to Support Lebanon

French President Emmanuel Macron has opened a fundraising conference in Paris aimed at raising millions of dollars to support Lebanon and advance diplomatic efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict affecting the country.

France, which shares historical ties with Lebanon, is also seeking to increase humanitarian aid to the nation through the conference. President Macron reiterated France’s commitment to maintaining its longstanding relationship with Lebanon and pledged continued support, particularly during this time of conflict.

The conference highlights France’s leading role in addressing Lebanon’s challenges, both through financial assistance and diplomatic engagement.

South Carolina to Erect First Statue Honoring an African American on Statehouse Lawn

South Carolina is preparing to install its first statue dedicated to an African American on the Statehouse lawn, honoring Civil War hero Robert Smalls. Smalls, who famously donned Confederate attire to commandeer a slaveholder's ship and lead his family and others to freedom, will soon be recognized alongside other notable figures at the state capitol.

Chris Barr, a ranger at the Reconstruction Era National Historic Park, highlighted the profound influence of Smalls' mother on his life. Barr emphasized that Smalls' legacy symbolizes hope for an unwritten future, noting that his actions forged a new path for the nation, even when those around him couldn't envision it.

State Representative Jermaine Johnson (D) stressed the importance of acknowledging African American history at the Statehouse. He remarked, “When you observe the Statehouse today, you see young people of all ages exploring the monuments and engaging with the history of our great state, but there is currently no monument here representing African Americans.”

The installation of Smalls' statue marks a significant step in broadening the representation of historical figures on the Statehouse grounds, paying tribute to an individual who overcame extraordinary challenges and reshaped history.

IMF Commends Tanzania for Strong Economic and Monetary Policies

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has praised Tanzania for its effective management of economic and monetary policies, particularly in controlling inflation rates compared to many other African nations.

The commendation was made by Willie Nakunyanda, IMF Executive Director overseeing the First African Constituency, during a meeting with the Tanzanian delegation participating in the IMF and World Bank Annual Meetings. The delegation was led by Tanzania’s Minister of Finance, Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba, at the IMF headquarters in Washington D.C.

Nakunyanda noted that other African countries have much to learn from Tanzania’s economic and financial management, acknowledging the country's resilience despite global economic and social challenges.

The praise highlights Tanzania's economic stability in the face of external pressures, positioning it as a role model for economic governance in Africa.

Bagamoyo to Host 43rd International Arts and Culture Festival, Boosting Local Craft Businesses

Local traders and artisans are set to benefit from the 43rd International Arts and Culture Festival, which will take place over four consecutive days at the Bagamoyo Institute of Arts and Culture (TaSUBa) in Pwani region, from October 23 to 26, 2024.

Speaking to the press in Bagamoyo, Deputy Minister for Culture, Arts, and Sports, Hamis Mwinjuma, stated that the festival’s goal is not only to promote Bagamoyo but also to showcase the entire nation and East Africa. He highlighted that traders will have the opportunity to display and sell their products on both national and international platforms. Items on sale will include batik, beads, dresses, earrings, baskets, drums, paintings, carvings, shirts, supplements, and herbal products.

The event will be officially inaugurated by the Minister for Culture, Arts, and Sports, Dr. Damas Ndumbaro, and aims to attract stakeholders from within and beyond the country. The festival will also feature activities related to art, tourism, social engagement, and economic development.

Dr. Herbert Makoye, the Head of the Bagamoyo Institute of Arts and Culture (TaSUBa), revealed that the event will be attended by government officials, private companies, political parties, and religious leaders.

A total of 74 groups will participate in the festival, with 61 from mainland Tanzania, two from Zanzibar, and 11 international groups from countries including South Africa, Zambia, India, Germany, Brazil, Spain, Botswana, and the Mayotte Islands. The performances will include traditional dances, both contemporary and traditional music, theater, acrobatics, comedy, and magic shows.

The festival promises to be a vibrant celebration of arts and culture, while providing a platform for local artisans to expand their reach.

Richard Ashcroft to Join Oasis for Highly Anticipated Reunion Tour

Richard Ashcroft, the former frontman of The Verve, is set to join Noel and Liam Gallagher for Oasis's long-awaited reunion tour across the UK and Ireland next year. Ashcroft will be a special guest during the iconic band's performances in Manchester, London, Edinburgh, Cardiff, and Dublin.

In a statement shared on social media, Ashcroft expressed his excitement, stating, "As a fan from day one, I was buzzing for many reasons when the news of Oasis's return was announced." He went on to praise Noel Gallagher’s songwriting talent and Liam’s captivating presence as a lead singer, crediting them for inspiring some of his best work.

"Now it's time to create more memories, and I'm ready to bring it. See you next summer. Music is power," Ashcroft added, signaling his readiness for the much-anticipated shows.

The announcement has electrified fans of both Oasis and The Verve, promising a monumental musical experience for next year’s tour.