ABSA BANK EXPANDS SUPPORT FOR YOUNG INNOVATORS THROUGH SECOND GIRLCODE HACKATHON

Absa Bank Tanzania Chief Operating Officer, Oscar Mwamfwagasi.

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania - August 22, 2026: Absa Bank Tanzania, in partnership with GirlCode, a South African-based non-profit organisation dedicated to equipping girls from underprivileged backgrounds with the skills and resources needed to thrive in the technology industry, has announced the return of the GirlCode Tanzania Hackathon for its second year.

The announcement follows a remarkable milestone in 2025, when Tanzania’s team won the Pan-African Grand Prize valued at US$5,000, highlighting the growing potential of young Tanzanian women in technology and innovation.

The GirlCode Hackathon forms part of GirlCode’s wider Pan-African initiative aimed at empowering young women with practical technology skills, mentorship and opportunities to develop solutions addressing real challenges in their communities.

The return of the Tanzania edition marks an important step in strengthening the country’s pipeline of female technology talent while building on the success achieved by participants in last year’s competition.

Tanzania’s 2025 victory demonstrated the impact of investing in young women as innovators, builders and problem-solvers. The achievement not only placed Tanzania on the Pan-African GirlCode Hackathon map but also inspired more young women across the country to see themselves as active participants in Africa’s rapidly growing digital economy.

“At GirlCode, we are incredibly proud of what the Tanzania team achieved last year,” said Zandile Mkwanazi, CEO of GirlCode. “Winning the Pan-African Grand Prize showed the depth of talent, creativity, and potential that exists among young women in Tanzania. As we return for the second year, our goal is to build on that momentum and give even more young women the opportunity to develop their skills, work in teams, and create technology-driven solutions that can have real impact.”

 

This year’s hackathon will bring together female students, graduates, aspiring developers and young innovators who will collaborate in teams, receive mentorship and present their solutions to a panel of judges.

VODACOM TANZANIA REPORTS STRONG FY2026 PERFORMANCE AS DIVIDENDS RISE 18.4%

Dar es Salaam, 20 August 2026: Vodacom Tanzania Plc has reported strong financial and operational performance for the financial year ended 31 March 2026, driven by sustained investment in network infrastructure, digital services and financial inclusion.

The performance was highlighted during the Company’s 10th Annual General Meeting (AGM), where shareholders considered and approved key resolutions covering the Company’s FY2026 results, dividend, Board composition, governance and future strategic direction.

SERVICE REVENUE RISES TO TZS 1.8 TRILLION

During FY2026, Vodacom Tanzania’s service revenue increased by 21.8% to TZS 1.8 trillion, while EBITDA rose by an impressive 38.8% to TZS 684.9 billion.

Profit after tax increased by 18.4% to TZS 107.1 billion, while underlying profit after tax grew by 125.5%, reflecting stronger operational performance and improved financial efficiency.

The Company also continued to expand its customer base, which reached 27.7 million, representing a 22.3% increase year-on-year.

Growth was supported by a 22.5% increase in data customers and 22.6% growth in M-Pesa customers, highlighting the increasing adoption of digital connectivity and financial services in Tanzania.

MAJOR INVESTMENT IN NETWORK AND DIGITAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Vodacom Tanzania significantly increased its investment in infrastructure during the financial year.

Capital expenditure rose by 85.1% to TZS 323.9 billion, supporting the deployment of 444 new 4G sites and 25 new 5G sites, alongside major investments in information technology and network modernisation.

As a result, 4G population coverage reached 76.3%, an increase of 3.8 percentage points, while the number of smartphone users increased by 31.5%.

The Company has also continued to support the Government’s efforts to expand connectivity in rural areas. Since 2013, Vodacom Tanzania has constructed 466 rural sites under the Government’s rural connectivity programme.

SHAREHOLDERS TO RECEIVE HIGHER DIVIDENDS

The strong financial performance has translated into increased returns for shareholders.

The AGM approved a final gross dividend of TZS 23.91 per ordinary share for FY2026, payable on or before 15 October 2026 to shareholders recorded in the register as at the close of trading on 19 August 2026.

Total dividends proposed for FY2026 amount to TZS 53.6 billion, representing an 18.4% year-on-year increase.

WORLD BANK PLEDGES CONTINUED PARTNERSHIP WITH TANZANIA ON STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS

Minister for Finance, Hon. Ambassador Khamis Mussa Omar (MP) (right), bids farewell to World Bank Vice President for Eastern and Southern Africa, Dr. Ndiame Diop, after their meeting and discussions at the Ministry of Finance’s offices in Dar es Salaam. The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation in developing the Central Corridor and transforming it from a transportation route into an economic corridor capable of creating jobs and stimulating productive activities.

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; August 20, 2026

The World Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its partnership with Tanzania in advancing strategic development projects aimed at unlocking the economic potential of the Central Corridor, creating jobs, stimulating economic growth and improving livelihoods in Tanzania and neighbouring countries.

The commitment was made by World Bank Vice President for Eastern and Southern Africa, Dr. Ndiame Diop, during a meeting with Minister for Finance, Hon. Ambassador Khamis Mussa Omar (MP) at the Ministry of Finance’s offices in Dar es Salaam. The meeting took place on the second day of Dr. Diop’s visit to Tanzania.

Dr. Diop said the World Bank sees significant potential in strengthening its cooperation with Tanzania to develop the Central Corridor and transform it from a transportation route into a fully-fledged economic corridor capable of generating employment, expanding production and supporting the implementation of Tanzania’s Development Vision 2050.

He said the partnership will focus on supporting critical infrastructure development, including ports and railways, as well as expanding the railway network to neighbouring Burundi.

“One of the major areas of our future cooperation is strengthening projects along the Central Corridor. We have had productive discussions with the Minister for Finance on what we can do together to support this corridor and transform it into an economic corridor capable of creating many jobs,” Dr. Diop said.

CENTRAL CORRIDOR TO DRIVE VALUE ADDITION

Beyond transport infrastructure, Dr. Diop said the World Bank sees the need for integrated investments across areas served by the Central Corridor to increase the value of resources produced in Tanzania.

These areas include agriculture and agro-processing, mining and mineral processing, logistics hubs and other transport-related services, with the aim of ensuring that Tanzanians benefit more from investments along the corridor.

NMB YAWAINUA WAFANYABIASHARA TISA WA MTAA WA LUMUMBA JIJINI MWANZA KWA FIDIA YA SH1.072 BILIONI

Mwanza; Agosti 21, 2026 — Wafanyabiashara tisa wa Mtaa wa Lumumba jijini Mwanza wamepata fursa ya kuanza upya baada ya NMB Bank, kwa kushirikiana na Reliance Insurance, kuwalipa fidia ya jumla ya Sh1.072 bilioni kufuatia moto ulioteketeza maduka na mali zao Julai 3, 2026.

Malipo hayo yamekuja baada ya tathmini ya kina ya hasara iliyofanywa na wataalamu wa bima kufuatia tukio hilo, ambapo wafanyabiashara hao walikuwa miongoni mwa waliokuwa wamechukua bima ya biashara na mali zao.

Meneja wa Madai ya Bima wa NMB Bank, Madoro Max, alisema wataalamu walitumwa mara moja kufanya tathmini ya uharibifu baada ya taarifa za moto kupokelewa.

Alisema tathmini hiyo ilithibitisha madai yenye thamani ya Sh1,072,554,090 kwa wafanyabiashara hao tisa waliokuwa na bima.

“Baada ya kupokea taarifa ya tukio, tulichukua hatua za haraka kwa kuwatuma wataalamu kufanya tathmini ya uharibifu na kushughulikia madai yaliyowasilishwa,” alisema Max.

Akizungumzia tukio hilo, Mkuu wa Mkoa wa Mwanza, Said Mtanda, aliwataka wafanyabiashara kuhakikisha biashara na mali zao zinawekewa bima ili kupunguza madhara ya kifedha yanayoweza kujitokeza kutokana na majanga kama moto.

Mtanda alisema bima ni nyenzo muhimu ya kulinda mitaji na kuimarisha ustahimilivu wa wafanyabiashara pale wanapokumbwa na majanga yasiyotarajiwa.

Kwa upande wake, Meneja wa NMB Kanda ya Ziwa, Faraja Ng’ingo, alisema fidia hiyo itawasaidia wafanyabiashara walioathirika kurejesha shughuli zao na kuendelea kupata kipato.

“Malipo haya ni muhimu kwa sababu yatawapa wafanyabiashara hawa uwezo wa kurejesha biashara zao na vyanzo vyao vya mapato baada ya kupata hasara kubwa,” alisema Ng’ingo.

Reliance Insurance ilieleza kuwa wafanyabiashara tisa pekee kati ya zaidi ya 60 walioathiriwa na moto huo walikuwa na bima.

Hali hiyo inaonesha umuhimu wa wafanyabiashara kuwa na uelewa kuhusu bima na kuhakikisha biashara, mali na mitaji yao inalindwa dhidi ya majanga mbalimbali.

VODACOM YATANGAZA MATOKEO IMARA YA MWAKA WA FEDHA 2026, GAWIO KWA WANAHISA LAONGEZEKA KWA 18.4%

Mwenyekiti wa Bodi ya Vodacom Tanzania Plc, David Tarimo (katikati), akizungumza na waandishi wa habari kuhusu Mkutano Mkuu wa 10 wa Mwaka wa Wanahisa wa Kampuni ya Vodacom, uliojadili na kuidhinisha maazimio muhimu kuhusu utendaji wa mwaka wa fedha 2026, ikiwemo malipo ya gawio na mwelekeo wa biashara.

Mkutano huo uliofanyika Agosti 20, 2026, katika makao makuu ya Vodacom jijini Dar es Salaam, uliidhinisha gawio la mwisho la Shilingi 23.91 kwa kila hisa, sawa na jumla ya Shilingi bilioni 53.6 kwa mwaka wa fedha 2026.

Wengine ni Afisa Mtendaji Mkuu wa Vodacom Tanzania Plc, Philip Besiimire (wa pili kushoto); Mkurugenzi wa Fedha wa Vodacom Tanzania Plc, Bi. Hilda Bujiku (kushoto); pamoja na wajumbe wa Bodi, Margret Ikongo (wa pili kulia) na Joyce Nkini-Iwisi (kulia).

Dar es Salaam, Agosti 20, 2026: Vodacom Tanzania Plc imeendelea kuonyesha ukuaji imara na kuongeza thamani kwa wanahisa, wateja na jamii katika mwaka wa fedha ulioishia Machi 31, 2026, huku uwekezaji katika miundombinu ya mawasiliano, huduma za kidijitali na huduma jumuishi za kifedha ukiendelea kuwa kichocheo muhimu cha mafanikio hayo.

Matokeo hayo yalitangazwa wakati wa Mkutano Mkuu wa 10 wa Mwaka wa Wanahisa wa Vodacom Tanzania Plc, ambapo wanahisa walijadili na kuidhinisha maazimio mbalimbali yanayohusu utendaji wa Kampuni, malipo ya gawio, muundo wa Bodi, utawala bora na mwelekeo wa biashara kwa siku zijazo.

MAPATO YA HUDUMA YAFIKIA TZS 1.8 TRILIONI

Katika mwaka wa fedha 2026, mapato ya huduma ya Vodacom Tanzania yaliongezeka kwa 21.8% hadi kufikia TZS 1.8 trilioni, huku EBITDA ikiongezeka kwa 38.8% hadi TZS 684.9 bilioni.

Faida baada ya kodi ilifikia TZS 107.1 bilioni, ikiwakilisha ongezeko la 18.4% ikilinganishwa na mwaka uliotangulia.

Wakati huo huo, idadi ya wateja iliongezeka kwa 22.3% hadi kufikia milioni 27.7, ikichangiwa na ongezeko la 22.5% la wateja wa intaneti na 22.6% la wateja wa M-Pesa.

UWEKEZAJI WA TZS 323.9 BILIONI KATIKA MTANDAO

Utendaji huo umechangiwa kwa kiasi kikubwa na uwekezaji mkubwa katika mtandao, teknolojia na majukwaa ya kidijitali.

VODACOM YAKABIDHI MADARASA MAWILI KWA SHULE YA MSINGI MAHILO RUVUMA, KUBORESHA MAZINGIRA YA ELIMU

Mkuu wa Mkoa wa Ruvuma, Brigedia Jenerali Ahmed Abbas Ahmed (kushoto), akisalimiana na Mkuu wa Kanda ya Nyanda za Juu Kusini wa Vodacom Tanzania Plc, Abednego Mhagama, wakati alipowasili katika hafla ya makabidhiano ya madarasa mawili yaliyojengwa katika Shule ya Msingi Mahilo, mkoani Ruvuma, kupitia programu ya Vodacom Tanzania Foundation.

Madarasa hayo yanalenga kuwapatia wanafunzi na walimu mazingira bora ya kujifunzia na kufundishia, na ni sehemu ya juhudi za kampuni hiyo za kuboresha mazingira ya elimu kwa watoto kupitia ujenzi na ukarabati wa madarasa.

Katika awamu hii, shule tatu za msingi za umma katika mikoa ya Pwani, Ruvuma na Morogoro zimenufaika na mpango huo. Hafla ya makabidhiano ilifanyika Agosti 20, 2026, katika Shule ya Msingi Mahilo, mkoani Ruvuma.

Mkuu wa Mkoa wa Ruvuma, Brigedia Jenerali Ahmed Abbas Ahmed (katikati), akipokea maelezo kuhusu madarasa mawili yaliyokabidhiwa na Vodacom Tanzania Plc katika Shule ya Msingi Mahilo, mkoani Ruvuma, kwa lengo la kuboresha mazingira ya kujifunzia na kufundishia kwa wanafunzi na walimu. Hatua hiyo ni sehemu ya juhudi za Vodacom Tanzania Foundation za kuimarisha miundombinu ya elimu kupitia ujenzi na ukarabati wa madarasa.

Katika awamu hii, shule tatu za msingi za umma katika mikoa ya Pwani, Ruvuma na Morogoro zimenufaika. Hafla ya makabidhiano ilifanyika Agosti 20, 2026, katika Shule ya Msingi Mahilo, mkoani Ruvuma. Wengine pichani ni Mkuu wa Kanda ya Nyanda za Juu Kusini wa kampuni hiyo, Abednego Mhagama (kushoto), na Meneja wa Vodacom Tanzania Foundation, Sandra Oswald.

Mkuu wa Mkoa wa Ruvuma, Brigedia Jenerali Ahmed Abbas Ahmed (katikati, waliokaa), na Mkuu wa Kanda ya Nyanda za Juu Kusini wa Vodacom Tanzania, Abednego Mhagama (wa tatu kushoto, waliokaa), wakiwa katika picha ya pamoja na viongozi wa Serikali mkoani Ruvuma pamoja na baadhi ya wafanyakazi wa Vodacom Tanzania Plc, wakati wa hafla ya makabidhiano ya madarasa mawili yaliyojengwa katika Shule ya Msingi Mahilo, mkoani humo, kupitia programu ya Vodacom Tanzania Foundation.

EQUITY GROUP RECORDS 32 PERCENT PROFIT AFTER TAX GROWTH IN H1 2026

Equity Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. James Mwangi.

August 20, 2026 — Equity Group Holdings Plc has reported a 32 percent year-on-year increase in Profit After Tax (PAT) to TZS 841 billion for the first half of 2026, up from TZS 640 billion recorded during the corresponding period last year.

In Tanzania, Equity Bank Tanzania also delivered a strong performance, recording Profit Before Tax of TZS 55.5 billion, while Profit After Tax grew by 82 percent, reflecting strong business momentum, disciplined execution and growing customer confidence in the market.

The results demonstrate Equity’s continued resilience, regional strength and ability to deliver sustainable growth in a dynamic operating environment. The performance was supported by stronger revenue generation, improved efficiency, disciplined risk management and continued investment in technology-enabled financial services.

TECHNOLOGY CONTINUES TO DRIVE GROWTH

At Group level, Equity’s performance reflects the success of its transformation into a diversified, technology-enabled financial services institution. The Group continues to deepen customer relationships, strengthen its operating model and expand access to financial services through digital platforms, branches, agents and merchant channels.

Technology remained a major driver of the Group’s performance. During the first half of 2026, 98.3 percent of all transactions were conducted outside branches, while 89.7 percent were processed through digital platforms.

The shift highlights growing customer preference for convenient, secure and accessible financial services, while reinforcing the critical role of technology in improving service delivery, operational efficiency and customer experience.

While releasing the results, Equity Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. James Mwangi, said the performance reflects the success of the Group’s long-term transformation into a diversified, regional and technology-enabled financial services institution.

“Our H1 2026 performance reflects the success of our deliberate transformation into a diversified, regional, technology enabled financial services Group. We are building a future ready institution; scalable, secure, and impact led, anchored in digital capabilities, staff upskilling, and a culture of disciplined execution,” he said.

 

Dr. Mwangi added that Equity continues to evolve beyond traditional banking into an integrated, technology-enabled financial institution that mobilises capital, connects ecosystems and accelerates inclusive and sustainable prosperity across Africa.

EQUITY BANK TANZANIA STRENGTHENS MARKET POSITION

For Equity Bank Tanzania, the strong first-half performance reinforces the Bank’s growing role in supporting individuals, entrepreneurs, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), corporates and public sector customers.

The performance points to increasing customer confidence in the Bank’s ability to provide practical financial solutions that support business growth, payments, savings, lending and day-to-day money management.

NMB COMPLETES MAJOR CORE BANKING TRANSFORMATION TO DRIVE FASTER, SEAMLESS BANKING

NMB Bank Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Ruth Zaipuna speaks in Dar es Salaam following completion of the bank’s migration to a new core banking system. She said services had resumed and full banking operations had stabilised.

NMB Bank Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Ruth Zaipuna speaks with members of staff after announcing completion of the bank’s core banking system migration and the full restoration of services.

DAR ES SALAAM - August 20, 2026: NMB Bank has completed a major transformation of the technology at the heart of its operations, migrating from a 15-year-old Core Banking System to a new-generation platform designed to deliver faster, more seamless and personalised banking while strengthening the bank’s resilience and capacity for innovation.

Announcing the milestone in Dar es Salaam, NMB Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Ruth Zaipuna described the migration as the largest technology investment in the bank’s history, emphasising that it represents a strategic investment in NMB’s next phase of growth rather than simply a replacement of an ageing system.

“The new state-of-the-art core banking system positions NMB to respond more effectively to rapidly changing customer needs while creating greater capacity to develop and deploy new digital banking solutions,” Ms Zaipuna said.

FROM 1.8 MILLION TO MORE THAN 10 MILLION CUSTOMERS

According to Ms Zaipuna, NMB introduced its previous core banking platform in 2011, when the bank had approximately 1.8 million customers and assets of about TZS 2 trillion.

Today, NMB has more than 10 million customer accounts and assets exceeding TZS 18 trillion, while its services have expanded significantly to include agency banking, NMB Mkononi, internet banking and an expanding range of digital and fintech-enabled solutions.

The new platform is therefore designed to support a significantly larger and increasingly digital NMB, with the bank targeting more than 20 million customer accounts by 2030.

The transformation is expected to deliver faster transaction processing, enhanced system stability and security, improved scalability and greater capacity to introduce new products and services.

TECHNOLOGY TRANSFORMATION BEYOND THE CORE SYSTEM

NMB Chief Technology and Digital Transformation Officer Kwame Makundi said the project should be viewed as a bank-wide digital transformation rather than simply a technology upgrade.

He explained that the transformation is changing not only the underlying technology but also how NMB serves customers, operates its branches, develops products and connects with digital partners.

“The new platform is designed to accommodate emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, while enabling NMB to respond more effectively to changing customer expectations for faster, simpler and more personalised banking,” Mr Makundi noted.

HALOTEL YATOA KOMPYUTA KWA SHULE ZA SUFA KWA AJILI YA KUIMARISHA ELIMU YA KIDIJITALI ZANZIBAR

Zanzibar, Tanzania – 20 Agosti 2026 — Halotel Tanzania imeendelea kuthibitisha dhamira yake ya kusaidia sekta ya elimu na kukuza matumizi ya teknolojia ya kidijitali Zanzibar, kupitia utoaji wa kompyuta kwa Shule za Msingi na Sekondari za Sufa Zanzibar.

Makabidhiano ya kompyuta hizo yaliyofanyika tarehe 19 Agosti 2026 ni sehemu ya juhudi za Halotel kuwawezesha vijana kupata fursa ya kutumia teknolojia ya kidijitali na kuwaandaa wanafunzi kupata ujuzi unaohitajika ili kushiriki kikamilifu katika dunia inayozidi kutawaliwa na teknolojia.

Akizungumza wakati wa hafla ya makabidhiano hayo, Mkurugenzi wa Sekta ya Biashara wa Halotel, Bw. Abdallah Salum, alisema upatikanaji wa teknolojia ni sehemu muhimu ya elimu ya kisasa, huku akisisitiza dhamira ya kampuni kushiriki katika mipango inayowapatia wanafunzi fursa zenye maana.

“Halotel tunaamini kuwa teknolojia inapaswa kupatikana kwa kila mtu, hususan vijana ambao ndio nguzo ya taifa letu la kesho. Kupitia utoaji wa kompyuta hizi kwa Shule za Sufa, tunalenga kuwasaidia wanafunzi na walimu kupata rasilimali za kidijitali za kujifunzia, kukuza ujuzi wa matumizi ya kompyuta na kuwaandaa kwa fursa mbalimbali za baadaye,” alisema Bw. Abdallah Salum.

 

Kompyuta hizo zinatarajiwa kusaidia shughuli za kujifunza kwa wanafunzi wa ngazi ya msingi na sekondari, pamoja na kuimarisha uwezo wa shule kutumia teknolojia ya habari na mawasiliano katika mchakato wa ufundishaji na ujifunzaji.

ZANZIBAR HOSTS THREE-DAY DATA TAMASHA AFRICA 2026

Panelists at Data Tamasha Africa 2026 lead discussions during the three-day gathering, which kicked off in Zanzibar and has brought together more than 300 delegates, 100+ organisations, and participants from 30 countries.

ZANZIBAR, August 19, 2026 — Zanzibar is hosting the three-day Data Tamasha Africa 2026, bringing together more than 300 delegates, over 100 organisations and participants from 30 countries at Hotel Verde.

The event, which kicked off on Wednesday, is co-hosted by the Tanzania Data Lab (dLab) and Pollicy Uganda, in close coordination with the Zanzibar Ministry of Communication, Information Technology and Innovation.

Data Tamasha Africa 2026 provides a platform for African institutions, innovators and communities to move beyond conversations about digital transformation and showcase practical solutions using data, digital technologies and artificial intelligence (AI).

ZANZIBAR POSITIONED AS DIGITAL INNOVATION HUB

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Zanzibar Minister for Communications, Information Technology and Innovation, Mudrik Ramadhan Soraga, said Zanzibar was honoured to host the continental event.

“For Zanzibar, hosting Data Tamasha Africa 2026 reinforces its growing role as a regional hub for digital innovation, data-driven development and digital governance,” Soraga said.

 

He said the event would enhance Zanzibar’s international profile as a destination for digital innovation while attracting investment in ICT, education, business and public services.

“We want to see data and technology being used as tools to boost productivity, accountability and sustainable development,” he added.

BUILDING WITH DATA

Held under the theme “Kujenga na Data / Building with Data,” the event brings together participants to share homegrown AI solutions, community-driven data systems, digital public innovations and practical approaches designed around Africa’s priorities and realities.

Tanzania Data Lab Executive Director Dr Mahadia Tunga said informed decision-making was increasingly critical, particularly for countries operating with constrained resources.

“Data helps identify development priorities and ensures that our limited resources are being used effectively across the continent,” Dr Tunga said.

VODACOM TANZANIA YAUNGA MKONO ELIMU JUMUISHI, YABORESHA MAZINGIRA YA KUJIFUNZIA KATIKA SHULE TATU

Mwakilishi wa Mkurugenzi Mtendaji wa Wilaya ya Mkuranga, Helen Kulwa Benjamini (kushoto), akishikana mkono na Meneja Mauzo Mwandamizi wa Kanda ya Dar es Salaam na Pwani wa Kampuni ya Vodacom Tanzania Plc, George Nyanda (kulia), wakati wa makabidhiano ya madarasa mawili yaliyoboreshwa pamoja na madawati 30 katika Shule ya Msingi Vikindu, chini ya mpango wa kampuni hiyo wa kurejesha kwa jamii. Msaada huo umetolewa kwa lengo la kuwawezesha wanafunzi kupata mazingira bora ya kujifunzia. Hafla hiyo ilifanyika tarehe 14 Agosti 2026 huko Vikindu, Mkoa wa Pwani.

Mwakilishi wa Mkurugenzi Mtendaji wa Wilaya ya Mkuranga, Madam Helen Kulwa Benjamini (kulia), akishikana mkono na Meneja Mauzo Mwandamizi wa Kanda ya Dar es Salaam na Pwani wa Kampuni ya Vodacom Tanzania Plc, George Nyanda (kushoto), wakati wa makabidhiano ya madarasa mawili yaliyorekebishwa pamoja na madawati 30 yaliyotolewa na kampuni hiyo. Tukio hilo lilishuhudiwa na Mwenyekiti wa Kijiji cha Vikindu, Said Nguvumari (kulia), pamoja na Mwenyekiti wa CCM Kata ya Vikindu, Bahati Ali Mawinga.

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – 14 Agosti 2026

Vodacom Tanzania, kupitia Vodacom Tanzania Foundation, inaendelea kuchangia katika kuboresha mazingira ya kujifunzia kwa watoto nchini kupitia ukarabati na ujenzi wa madarasa katika shule tatu za msingi za umma zilizopo mikoa ya Pwani, Ruvuma na Morogoro.

Mpango huo unaotekelezwa kwa kuzingatia mahitaji yaliyobainika katika jamii, unalenga kuimarisha mazingira ya elimu, hususan kwa watoto wenye mahitaji maalum katika shule za umma.

Kupitia mpango huo, jumla ya madarasa sita yameboreshwa katika Shule za Msingi Vikindu wilayani Mkuranga, Pwani; Mahilo mkoani Ruvuma; na Ihowanja mkoani Morogoro, ambapo kila shule imepatiwa madarasa mawili. Kati ya madarasa hayo, mawili yamekarabatiwa huku manne yakijengwa upya.

Maboresho hayo yanatarajiwa kunufaisha jumla ya wanafunzi 4,838, wakiwemo 117 wenye mahitaji maalum, pamoja na walimu 52. Aidha, Vodacom Tanzania imetoa jumla ya madawati 90 kwa shule hizo tatu.

VODACOM YAKABIDHI MADARASA VIKINDU

Hafla ya kwanza ya makabidhiano ilifanyika katika Shule ya Msingi Vikindu, Wilaya ya Mkuranga, ambapo Vodacom Tanzania ilikabidhi madarasa yaliyoboreshwa pamoja na madawati kwa uongozi wa shule.

Akizungumza wakati wa hafla hiyo, George Nyanda, Meneja Mauzo Kanda ya Dar es Salaam na Pwani wa Vodacom Tanzania, alisema uwekezaji huo unalenga kuboresha mazingira ya kujifunzia kwa wanafunzi na kufundishia kwa walimu.

“Katika Shule ya Msingi Vikindu, madarasa haya mawili yanalenga kuboresha mazingira ya kujifunzia kwa watoto na kufundishia kwa walimu. Kuitikia mahitaji ya jamii kunahitaji kuelewa mambo yanayoweza kuleta tofauti katika maisha ya kila siku ya watoto, hususan wale wenye mahitaji maalum,” alisema Nyanda.

ZANZIBAR TOURIST ARRIVALS SURGE 54.9% TO 107,801 IN JULY 2026 AS EUROPEAN SUMMER SEASON PEAKS

ZANZIBAR; August 19, 2026 — Zanzibar recorded a sharp increase in international tourist arrivals in July 2026, as the peak European summer holiday season boosted visitor numbers and strengthened the islands’ tourism outlook.

According to data released by the Zanzibar Commission for Tourism (ZCT), international arrivals rose by 54.9 per cent month-on-month to 107,801 visitors in July 2026, up from June 2026.

The latest figure also represents a 9.6 per cent increase compared with the 98,370 international visitors recorded in July 2025.

Research and Statistics Officer at the Zanzibar Commission for Tourism, Hassan Ameir Vuai, said the latest figures demonstrate the continued upward trend in the islands’ tourism sector.

EUROPE LEADS JULY ARRIVALS

Europe remained Zanzibar’s largest source market during the month, accounting for 56.4 per cent of total international arrivals, equivalent to 60,754 visitors.

Italy led individual international markets with 8,892 arrivals, followed by the United Kingdom with 5,618, Germany with 5,423, and France with 3,236 visitors.

African markets also continued to make a significant contribution, accounting for 24.6 per cent of total arrivals. Kenya was the leading African source market, recording 5,540 visitors.

NBC YAITIKIA WITO WA RAIS SAMIA, YASISITIZA DHAMIRA YA KUCHOCHEA UKUAJI WA UCHUMI ZANZIBAR

Rais wa Jamhuri ya Muungano wa Tanzania, Dkt. Samia Suluhu Hassan (kushoto), akimsikiliza Meneja wa NBC Tawi la Zanzibar, Bw. Abdul Karim Mkila (anayeshika kipaza sauti), akieleza kuhusu huduma na suluhisho mbalimbali za kifedha zinazotolewa na benki hiyo kwa wananchi na wafanyabiashara wa Zanzibar. Rais Samia alipata fursa ya kutembelea banda la NBC wakati wa Maonyesho ya Biashara yaliyofanyika sambamba na Tamasha la Kizimkazi, Zanzibar, lililohitimishwa mwishoni mwa wiki.

Mkurugenzi Mtendaji wa NBC, Bw. Theobald Sabi (kulia), akizungumza na Gavana wa Benki Kuu ya Tanzania (BoT), Bw. Emmanuel Tutuba (kushoto), wakati wa hafla ya kuhitimisha Tamasha la Kizimkazi lililoongozwa na Rais wa Jamhuri ya Muungano wa Tanzania, Dkt. Samia Suluhu Hassan, iliyofanyika Kizimkazi, Zanzibar, mwishoni mwa wiki. NBC ilikuwa miongoni mwa wadau na wafadhili muhimu walioshiriki katika kufanikisha tamasha hilo, ikiwa ni sehemu ya dhamira yake ya kuunga mkono shughuli zinazochochea ukuaji wa uchumi na uwekezaji nchini.

Zanzibar | Agosti 16, 2026

Benki ya Taifa ya Biashara (NBC) imesisitiza dhamira yake ya kuwa mshirika wa kimkakati katika kuchochea ukuaji wa uchumi wa Zanzibar, ikiahidi kuendelea kuwawezesha wafanyabiashara, wawekezaji na wajasiriamali kutumia kikamilifu fursa zinazotokana na ongezeko la uwekezaji, maendeleo ya miundombinu na ukuaji wa sekta ya utalii.

Benki hiyo imesema itaendelea kutoa suluhisho mbalimbali za kifedha zitakazowawezesha wafanyabiashara kupata mitaji, kupanua shughuli zao, kuongeza uzalishaji na kuwekeza katika fursa mpya za biashara, hususan katika maeneo yenye kasi ya ukuaji wa kiuchumi, ikiwemo Kizimkazi na Zanzibar kwa ujumla.

Akizungumza kufuatia hitimisho la Tamasha la Kizimkazi mwishoni mwa wiki, Mkurugenzi Mtendaji wa NBC, Bw. Theobald Sabi, alisema benki hiyo inaona fursa kubwa katika mabadiliko yanayoendelea Zanzibar na imejipanga kushirikiana na sekta binafsi ili kuhakikisha fursa hizo zinageuka kuwa shughuli endelevu za kiuchumi.

“NBC itaendelea kuwa mshirika wa wafanyabiashara na wawekezaji katika kutumia fursa zinazopatikana Zanzibar, ikiwemo eneo la Kizimkazi. Tumejipanga kutoa suluhisho mbalimbali za kifedha zitakazowasaidia kupata mitaji, kukuza biashara zao na hatimaye kuchangia katika ukuaji wa uchumi wa maeneo haya,” alisema Bw. Sabi.

STANBIC BANK BECOMES FIRST BANK IN TANZANIA TO LAUNCH DIRECT RMB (YUAN) SETTLEMENT FOR CHINA TRADE

From second left, Bank of Tanzania Deputy Governor, Sauda Msemo, Stanbic Bank Tanzania Chief Executive, Manzi Rwegasira, and Deputy Minister for Industry and Trade Dennis Londo, joined by other stakeholders, during the official launch of CIPS and Direct RMB (Yuan) Settlement in Dar es Salaam. The launch makes Stanbic Bank Tanzania the first bank in Tanzania to enable businesses trading with China to pay and receive Renminbi directly, without first converting through the US dollar.

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – 12 August 2026

Stanbic Bank Tanzania has made a major breakthrough in Tanzania’s international trade and financial services landscape after becoming the first bank in the country to launch Direct Renminbi (RMB/Yuan) Settlement, enabling businesses to pay and receive Chinese currency directly when trading with China.

The new capability allows Tanzanian businesses to settle transactions with Chinese trading partners in Renminbi without first converting funds through the United States dollar, creating a more direct, efficient and potentially cost-effective channel for one of Tanzania’s most important trading relationships.

The service is available in both directions — supporting Tanzanian importers purchasing goods and services from China and exporters receiving payments from Chinese buyers.

A MAJOR STEP FOR TANZANIA–CHINA TRADE

China has been Tanzania’s largest trading partner for ten consecutive years, with bilateral trade reaching close to USD 9 billion in the most recent full year of available data.

Traditionally, many transactions between Tanzanian businesses and their Chinese counterparts have involved the US dollar as an intermediary currency. This can introduce additional foreign exchange conversion costs, currency exposure and processing time.

Direct RMB Settlement is designed to remove that additional layer, giving Tanzanian businesses a more direct route into the Chinese market.

Speaking at the launch, Manzi Rwegasira, Chief Executive of Stanbic Bank Tanzania, said the new service would make it easier for businesses to trade in both directions.

“China is Tanzania’s largest trading partner, and it has held that position for a decade. Direct RMB (YUAN) Settlement gives Tanzanian businesses a simpler, more direct route to trade with China, and it strengthens the economic ties between our two countries.”

The launch also builds on the strength of Standard Bank Group, the parent company of Stanbic Bank Tanzania, which together with the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC), became the first African-based banking group authorised by the People’s Bank of China to clear Renminbi transactions across Africa.

GGML, JKCI FORGE 3-YEAR PARTNERSHIP TO SUPPORT PAEDIATRIC CARDIAC SURGERIES FOR 300 CHILDREN IN TANZANIA

Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute ( JKCI) Executive Director, Dr. Peter Kisenge (second from left) and Geita Gold Mining Limited (GGML) Managing Director, Mr. Ashraf Suryaningrat display documents after signing a three-year strategic partnership to support specialized cardiac surgeries for up to 300 children in the country.

GEITA, TANZANIA – 16 AUGUST 2026: Geita Gold Mining Limited (GGML) and the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI) have entered into a three-year strategic partnership to support specialised cardiac surgeries for up to 300 children in Tanzania, marking a significant expansion of their collaboration to improve access to life-saving paediatric cardiac care.

The partnership seeks to improve access to critical cardiac treatment, particularly for children from underprivileged communities, while also strengthening cardiovascular health awareness, preventive healthcare and community outreach.

Speaking during the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), GGML Managing Director Ashraf Suryaningrat said the partnership demonstrates the company’s commitment to working with national institutions to address critical healthcare needs and contribute to improving the quality of life for Tanzanians.

“Behind every child requiring cardiac surgery is a family hoping for an opportunity to see their child recover, grow and realise their potential. Through this partnership with JKCI, we are helping turn that hope into possibility by supporting access to specialised cardiac care over the next three years.”

TZS 1.2 BILLION COMMITMENT

Under the MoU, GGML will provide financial support for cardiac surgeries for 100 children each year for three years, representing an annual commitment of TZS 400 million and a potential total investment of TZS 1.2 billion over the duration of the partnership.

NCBA SME CLINIC HIGHLIGHTS THE SUPPORT BUSINESSES NEED TO TURN AMBITIONS INTO GROWTH

NCBA Bank Tanzania Managing Director and CEO, Alex Mziray speaks at the event.

Dar es Salaam; August 17, 2026 - For many entrepreneurs, the biggest challenge is not having a business idea or finding an opportunity. It is having the resources and support needed to take advantage of that opportunity when it comes.

A transport operator may win a new contract but need additional vehicles to fulfil it. A manufacturer may have growing demand for its products but lack the machinery to increase production. A retailer may see an opportunity to expand but need additional working capital to make the move.

These realities took centre stage on Friday as NCBA Bank Tanzania hosted its SME Business Clinic in Dar es Salaam, bringing together entrepreneurs and business stakeholders for conversations around financing, business management, risk protection, digital solutions and sustainable growth.

The Clinic provided entrepreneurs with an opportunity to engage with financial experts, share some of the challenges they face in running their businesses and explore practical solutions to help them move to the next stage of their journey.

Speaking at the event, NCBA Bank Tanzania Managing Director and CEO Alex Mziray said the bank's approach to SMEs is centred on understanding the ambition behind the business rather than simply responding to a financing request.

“Every entrepreneur comes with a dream, but that dream needs the right support to become a reality. Our role is to understand that ambition and help the customer take the next step,” he said.

One of the key areas of focus was Asset Finance, which continues to play an important role for businesses whose growth depends on acquiring productive assets.

For an entrepreneur in transport, an additional truck can mean the ability to take on a new contract. For a manufacturer, new machinery can increase production, while equipment can give a construction company the capacity to undertake larger projects.

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN BANKING: A GAME CHANGER THAT MISSES A STEP

DAR ES SALAAM; August 17, 2026 — The rapid adoption of digital technologies is transforming the banking industry, making financial services faster, more convenient and increasingly accessible. However, banks must now focus on closing a critical gap in the digital customer journey: effective digital complaint handling.

Speaking during the 10DX Intelligent Banking Series – Tanzania Edition in Dar es Salaam, Absa Bank Tanzania Head of Application Management Nicky Mlelwa said digital transformation has fundamentally changed how customers interact with banks, moving the industry away from traditional processes such as queues, paperwork and frequent branch visits.

“Digital transformation has fundamentally changed the face of banking. What was once an industry defined by queues, paperwork and branch visits is now powered by speed, convenience and experiences that fit seamlessly into customers’ daily lives,” Mlelwa said.

BANKING IS BECOMING FASTER AND SMARTER

Mlelwa said advances in automation, artificial intelligence, real-time data and other modern technologies have enabled banks to provide services that previously required days or weeks in a matter of minutes or even seconds.

Customers can now open bank accounts, apply for loans, make payments and access financial services through digital platforms. Technologies such as real-time payments, digital lending, straight-through processing and open banking are becoming increasingly central to the modern banking experience.

“Banking is no longer just a place to store money or process transactions. Instead, it has become a trusted companion that supports customers throughout their financial journeys,” he said.

He noted that customers increasingly expect to manage their finances anytime and anywhere, whether paying bills, transferring money, accessing credit, saving or investing.

AIRTEL AFRICA BECOMES FIRST OPERATOR IN AFRICA TO COMMERCIALLY LAUNCH STARLINK MOBILE IN DRC

Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo – August 17, 2026: Airtel Africa has partnered with Starlink to commercially launch satellite-to-mobile connectivity in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), marking the first commercial deployment of Starlink Mobile in Africa.

The service enables Airtel customers with compatible smartphones to access mobile connectivity in areas beyond the reach of traditional terrestrial networks, provided they have a clear view of the sky.

Starlink, operated by SpaceX, currently has the world’s largest satellite-to-mobile constellation, with 650 satellites launched. The technology enables customers to use light-data applications, including WhatsApp messaging, as well as SMS, without requiring specialised equipment or a separate satellite device.

CONNECTIVITY BEYOND TERRESTRIAL NETWORKS

The launch follows the strategic partnership between Airtel Africa and Starlink announced in December 2025 and successful testing of Starlink Mobile data and messaging services in Kenya in March 2026.

The DRC is the first Airtel Africa market and the first country in Africa where Starlink Mobile has progressed to commercial deployment.

Initially, the service is available to customers using compatible LTE Android smartphones, with an active Airtel DRC data bundle or data roaming switched on. Support for Apple devices is expected to be introduced in the future.

Commenting on the milestone, Airtel Africa CEO Sunil Taldar said the launch represents a significant development in the company’s partnership with SpaceX.

“By combining Airtel’s terrestrial network with Starlink’s satellite technology, we are extending essential connectivity beyond the limits of mobile infrastructure.”

Taldar said the experience gained in the DRC would support the progressive expansion of the service across Airtel Africa’s markets, subject to country-specific regulatory approvals.

EQUITY BANK CELEBRATES NATIONAL BANKING EXCELLENCE VICTORY IN THE TANZANIA BANKERS CHALLENGE 2026

DAR ES SALAAM, TANZANIA — Equity Bank Tanzania has reaffirmed its position as a competitive and forward-looking financial institution following the impressive victory of its Equity Eagles team in the Tanzania Bankers Challenge 2026, after an intensive competition spanning almost four months.

The competition brought together 11 teams representing 10 banks, providing a platform for banking professionals to demonstrate their knowledge, teamwork and ability to apply strategic thinking to real-world banking challenges.

Participants were tested across a range of critical areas, including banking knowledge, strategic decision-making, teamwork, risk management and practical business application.

Throughout the competition, Equity Eagles demonstrated strong capability and consistency, successfully progressing through the various stages before reaching the finals. The team particularly excelled in the business simulation exercises, which required participants to make sound judgements, collaborate effectively and manage a simulated banking environment under challenging conditions.

The victory highlights Equity Bank Tanzania’s continued commitment to investing in its people, strengthening process excellence and driving strong business performance.