EALA ADOPTS REPORT OF THE AUDITED ACCOUNTS FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 2014

EALA has today debated and adopted the Report of the Committee on the Audited Accounts of the EAC for the Year ended 30th June 2014.

During debate, Members called for improvement on the financial performance of the Community, review of procurement procedures and adherence to the set regulations.  They further want the absorption of funds by the Community enhanced and reimbursement of all unclaimed Value Added Tax (VAT) followed.

The report presented to the House by the Chair of the Accounts Committee, Hon Jeremie Ngendakumana, covers the Committees findings arising from the report of the Audit Commission and is divided into seven main parts.  It includes the audit findings on the financial statements of the EAC Secretariat and its Organs and Institutions.  They include the Lake Victoria Basin Commission, the Lake Victoria Fisheries Organisation and the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA).  The Audited Financial Statements of the Civil Aviation Safety and Security Oversight Agency (CASSOA) are also presented.

Hon Jeremie Ngendakumana presents the Report of the Accounts Committee to the House.

The recommendations state that all planned activities should ideally be carried out within the agreed timeframe and to avoid further delays in the implementation of planned activities.  The Report further wants follow-up on disbursement of donor funds and calls on the EAC to comply with all requirements concerning funds in time and at all times.

On planning, the Committee is of the view that EAC experienced a slow start in implementing the planned activities during the year especially in the first quarter due to limited financial resources as the percentages of remittances by Partner States were low.  As a result, a number of activities were not implemented in good time.

On Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) matters, the Committee urges the Council of Ministers to ensure the ICT Strategy is implemented at the EAC.  It further wants the Assembly to direct the Council to hire additional staff in the ICT Sector to ensure financial information security of the Assembly.    It also wants due diligence to be undertaken and that EAC adheres to all laid procurement Procedures. 

Hon Shyrose Bhanji takes the floor during debate on the Accounts Report.

In his contribution, Hon Yves Nsabimana called for recruitment of staff to enable effective implementation of tasks.  He further called for the implementation of the decisions and directives of the Council of Ministers.  Hon Nsabimana also cited the operationalization of the Protocols as an area that can be better co-ordinated and said it was time for the EAC to inculcate a system that effectively ensures Protocols are enforced.

Hon Pierre Celestin Rwigema said the Community generally was stable but added that deficiencies could be enhanced by better management of the institutions.

Hon Abubakar Zein said all Organs and Institutions should have mechanisms for compliance to decisions once arrived at.

Others who supported the report were Hon Isabelle Ndahayo who said the EAC needs to bolster its Monitoring and Evaluation component, Hon Adam Kimbisa, Hon Martin Ngoga, Hon Valerie Nyirahabineza, Hon Emmanuel Nengo. Hon Straton Ndikuryayo, Hon Mariam Ussi and Hon Susan Nakawuki also gave a nod to the Report.

Hon Shyrose Bhanji said the report had revealed understaffing as a chronic problem. She cited lack of project reporting as inadequate.  “We also need to abide by the Financial Rules and Regulations”, Hon Bhanji said.

On the pending assent of 22 Bills, Hon Bhanji said the Assembly had employed efforts in passage of the Bills.  “The Council needs to tell us what is the problem”, she said.

Also supporting the Report was Hon Peter Mathuki who said social security of staff was necessary as a statutory deduction.  He remarked that issue of staff privileges need to be harmonized in all institutions across the Partner States.

In his response, the Chair of the Council of Ministers, Hon Shem Bageine reiterated the Institutional Review would be deliberated on and final submissions presented to the Summit when it sits possibly early next year.

“I assure the House, the next Council and subsequent Summit shall take a decision on the matter”, he said.

“It is an important review which will include elevating the status of the Secretariat and political presence in Arusha to finalise matters”, he added.

The Committee further wants the Council of Ministers to address issues of tax exemption within all Partner States.  This is in line with Article 4 Section 1, Sub-section (d) of the EAC Headquarters Agreement with the United Republic of Tanzania which provides for exemption of all taxes.

Under the projects and programmes, the Committee urges the Council to implement the project activities in order to achieve the set goals within the planned period of the project. The projects should also achieve the goals within the planned period of the project.

All unrecovered imprests should also be recovered from the institutions of the Community while it also suggests that the Secretary General be given powers to sanction all staff who contravene staff rules.  

The House also received the Annual Report of activities for the period 2013/2014 that was tabled by the Minister for EAC Affairs, Hon Valentine Rugwabiza.

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Rais Magufuli Akutana na Profesa Lipumba Ikulu Dar es Salaam

Monday, November 30, 2015

  @nkupamah blog

Aliyekuwa Mwenyekiti wa Chama Cha Wananchi (CUF) Prof Ibrahim Lipumba amemtembelea Rais wa Jamhuri ya Muungano wa Tanzania Mhe Dkt John Pombe Magufuli na kumpongeza kwa hotuba nzuri iliyoweka mwelekeo mpya wa Serikali ya Awamu ya Tano.

Pia Prof Lipumba amesifu na kuunga mkono Juhudi za Mhe Rais katika kupambana na wakwepa kodi na wahujumu uchumi.

Hii hapa pia taarifa kutoka Ikulu kuhusu mwaliko wa Prof. Lipumba ndani ya Ikulu.

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New $500 million initiative to boost large scale climate action in developing countries!

• 30 November 2015
• By @nkupamah.com

PARIS, Nov. 30, 2015 – Four European countries – Germany, Norway, Sweden, and Switzerland – today announced a new $500 million initiative that will find new ways to create incentives aimed at large scale cuts in greenhouse gas emissions in developing countries to combat climate change. The World Bank Group worked with the countries to develop the initiative.

The Transformative Carbon Asset Facility will help developing countries implement their plans to cut emissions by working with them to create new classes of carbon assets associated with reduced greenhouse gas emission reductions, including those achieved through policy actions.

The facility will measure and pay for emission cuts in large scale programs in areas like renewable energy, transport, energy efficiency, solid waste management, and low carbon cities. For example, it could make payments for emission reductions to countries that remove fossil fuel subsidies or embark on other reforms like simplifying regulations for renewable energy.

“We want to help developing countries find a credible pathway toward low carbon development,” said World Bank Group President Jim Yong Kim. “This initiative is one such way because it will help countries create and pay for the next generation of carbon credits.”

This new initiative is planned to start operations in 2016 with an initial expected commitment of more than $250 million from contributing countries. The facility will remain open for additional contributions until a target of $500 million is reached. It is expected that the new facility’s support will be provided alongside $2 billion of investment and policy-related lending by the World Bank Group and other sources.

“Putting market forces to work is an efficient way of reducing emissions. We expect to achieve significant impact on the ground through the facility and ensure the sustainability of reducing emissions even beyond the facility’s initial support, for example, through carbon pricing instruments like emissions trading systems and carbon taxes, or stronger low-carbon policy standards and their enforcement,” said Prime Minister Erna Solberg of Norway.  “We are pleased to support this initiative that will help guide the next generation of carbon market programs.”

This facility will work alongside a range of global initiatives and national climate plans to help both developed and developing countries achieve their mitigation goals. It will pay for carbon assets with high environmental integrity and a strong likelihood to comply with future international rules, and will share its learning with the international community.

“It is very encouraging to see this new initiative launched when all eyes are on Paris. Four countries are leading with their example and bridging one of the main challenges for developing countries to achieve low carbon growth. By working with developing countries to establish market-based carbon pricing policies and programs, the facility can help achieve both better growth and a better climate for all,” said Felipe Calderón, Chair of the Global Commission on the Economy and Climate and former President of Mexico.

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Human rights stakeholders sensitized on anti-torture issues!!

• 30 November 2015
• By @nkupamah .com

 

 The Chairman of the Commission for Human Rights and Good Governance, Hon. Bahame Nyanduga talking to the participants (not in picture) during the opening remarks for the sensitization seminar on anti-torture issues held at the CHRAGG premises in Dar es Salaam on November 30, 2015. (Left) is the Vice Chairman of the Commission for Human Rights and Good Governance, Hon. Iddi  Ramadhan Mapuri and (Right) is the Coordinator of DIGNITY – Danish Institute against Torture, Ms. Brenda van den Bergh.

By.@nkupamah.com

About 50 human rights stakeholders from various institutions, including representatives from the government and civil society organizations have been sensitized on anti-torture issues in a one-day seminar held today (November 30, 2015) in Dar es Salaam City.

Opening the seminar organized jointly by the Commission for Human Rights and Good Governance (CHRAGG) and Danish Institute against Torture (DIGNITY), the Commission’s Chairperson, Hon. Bahame Tom Nyanduga said that the sensitization seminar on anti-torture issues is instrumental in articulating relevant issues for advocating for prohibition of torture in the country.

He also said that the seminar entails putting in place an advocacy strategy aimed at sensitizing the government, public and private actors and the community at large in understanding the regional and international human rights standards on prohibition of torture and other inhuman punishments.

Further, Hon. Nyanduga noted that the government of Tanzania has made some efforts towards addressing issues of torture in the country. Foremost, torture and inhuman acts are prohibited in the Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania. Besides, the National Human Rights Action Plan (NHRAP) addresses torture issues.

Some main activities regarding issues of torture in the five-year NHRAP (2013 – 2017) according to Hon. Chairperson, include: reviewing the Police General Orders and Prison Standing Orders; and ratifying and domesticating the United Nations Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman, or Degrading Treatment or Punishment.

However, Hon. Nyanduga pointed out that for quite a long time in Tanzania there have been allegations of torture by law enforcers. At the same time, investigation of alleged acts of torture is still very challenging for a number of reasons.

One of the main reasons, he said, is the fact that Tanzania has not signed the Convention against Torture.

Thus, he expects that experts from Dignity will share with them some insight on their experience in addressing some of these challenges.

“I believe that this forum is not about pointing fingers at each other but it is just an opportunity  for us all to think about better ways to effectively address issues related to torture in Tanzania” Nyanduga added.

 The Coordinator of DIGNITY- Danish Institute against Torture, Ms. Brenda van den Bergh appreciated the efforts made by Tanzania in prohibiting torture in the national law.

“In Tanzania, torture is explicitly prohibited in the national law and we appreciate very much the efforts of Tanzanian authorities and several institutions to fight torture and other forms of ill-treatment. That is why during this seminar we would like to discuss together with you all in more details several aspects of torture including physical and psychological effects of torture, documentation of cases of torture and rehabilitation of victims of torture”, Ms Brenda said.

DIGNITY – Danish Institute against Torture is a non-governmental organization based in Copenhagen, Denmark working both in Denmark and countries worldwide since 1982.

 Legal Advisor – DIGNITY, Ms. Ilvija Puce presenting the topic on the introduction to the UN Convention against Torture during the sensitization seminar on anti-torture issues held at the CHRAGG premises in Dar es Salaam on November 30, 2015.
The Coordinator of DIGNITY – Danish Institute against Torture, Ms. Brenda van den Bergh stresses a point during the opening remarks for the sensitization seminar on anti-torture issues held at the CHRAGG premises in Dar es Salaam on November 30, 2015. (Left) is the Chairman of the Commission for Human Rights and Good Governance, Hon. Bahame Nyanduga and (Right) is the Executive Secretary of CHRAGG, Mrs. Mary Massay.

 The Chairman of the Commission for Human Rights and Good Governance, Hon. Bahame Nyanduga talking to the participants (not in picture) during the opening remarks for the sensitization seminar on anti-torture issues held at the CHRAGG premises in Dar es Salaam on November 30, 2015. (Left) is the Vice Chairman of the Commission for Human Rights and Good Governance, Hon. Iddi  Ramadhan Mapuri and (Right) is the Coordinator of DIGNITY – Danish Institute against Torture, Ms. Brenda van den Bergh.

Human rights stakeholders  in the sensitization seminar on anti-torture issues held at the CHRAGG premises in Dar es Salaam on November 30, 2015.

CHRAGG Commissioner, Hon. Mohamed Khamis, presenting the topic on the Current situation of torture in Tanzania during the sensitization seminar on anti-torture issues held at the CHRAGG premises in Dar es Salaam on November 30, 2015.

Human rights stakeholders pose in a group photo during the sensitization seminar on anti-torture issues held at the CHRAGG premises in Dar es Salaam on November 30, 2015.

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MWINYI LEADS THE “WALK FOR A DESK”

“The former president of Tanzania, Ally H Mwinyi leading the walkers during the charity walk “walk for a desk” organized by Hassan Maajar Trust in partnership with Bank M recenly at the police officers mess. The walk was aimed at raising funds for provision of desks for Majimatitu primary school in Mbagala, Dsm. With him are Bank M’s deputy CEO Jacqueline Woiso (fourth left)The HMT chair Ambassador Mwanaidi Maajar (fifth left), Mrs. Zhakia Bilal wife of the former vice president (third right) and Mrs Saada Othman Chande, wife of the chief justice of Tanzania.”

Bank M’s Deputy CEO Ms. Jacqueline Woiso addressing the walkers during the “Walk for a Desk” took place over the weekend organized by the Hassan Maajar Trust in association with Bank M.

The former president of the united republic of Tanzania Hon. Ally H. Mwinyi who was the guest of honour addressing the walkers during the “Walk for a Desk” took place over the weekend organized by the Hassan Maajar Trust in association with Bank M.

The Chairman of the Hassan Maajar Trust Ambassador Mwanaidi Maajar addressing the walkers during the “Walk for a Desk” took place over the weekend organized by the Hassan Maajar Trust in association with Bank M.

THE former president of Tanzania hon. Ally H. Mwinyi led a number of Dar es salaam citizens in the charity walk held over the weekend, the walk which started and ended at the Police Officers Mess, Oysterbay, attracted hundreds of participants from across the city. 

The event, themed ‘“Walk for a Desk” was organized by the Hassan Maajar Trust in association with Bank M, and was aimed at raising funds for providing 1, 764 desks to students for Majimatitu Primary school in Mbagala, which has 5,000 students with only 550 desks.

Speaking during the event, retired president of Tanzania His Excellency Ali Hassan Mwinyi – who was the chief guest, said that the efforts shown by the Hassan Maajar Trust and its partners in serving the community deserves recognition. He congratulated Bank M which has been the main sponsor of HMT since inception in the year 2011 and encouraged them to continue with their corporate social responsibility strategy in supporting the key sectors of national development.

Speaking at the end of walk, the HMT Chairperson, Ambassador Mwanaidi Maajar said the support extended by its corporate partners has continuously contributed to the success of the project. “Since its launch, HMT in partnership with the public and corporate Tanzania has succeeded to provide over 8,100 desks lifting over 25,000 boys and girls off the floor onto desks in eleven regions of Tanzania, thanks to all our sponsors” said Ambassador Maajar.

Bank M’s Deputy CEO Ms. Jacqueline Woiso said that the bank is proud to be partnering with the Hassan Maajar Trust in such a noble cause and commended the Trust for an ongoing job well done in the previous years. “Having over 25,000 children lifted off the floor and seated on desks is an achievement we can all be proud of, We have jointly made sitting on the floor a history for thousands of Tanzanian school children. It is our policy to work together with other reputable organization in making a difference to the needy communities of this land” said Ms. Woiso

HMT is dedicated towards improving the learning environment in schools by addressing and tackling the national school desk deficit across Tanzania.

Apart from the main partner Bank M, other sponsors of the walk include Azam, OGS, Uhuru one, China Tanzania security, Hindu Mandal hospital, NHC and Tigo.

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BLOGGERS, EDITORS URGED TO ENSURE PUBLIC MAKES INFORMED CHOICE

Gasirigwa Sengiyumva from MISA Tanzania, giving briefly introduction about the training , asking editors and bloggers there expectation after training and the aim of the Training today .

Mr. James Malenga from National Organization of Legal Assistance(NORA), explaining about analysis of the ATI,RTI Law and importance on Election Reporting , Also a Glimpse at the guidelines on Media coverage of Elections in SADC Region(Role of Media in Elections)

Maxence Melo Managing Director - Jamii Media who talk about Brief analysis of the Cybercrime and Statistic laws and its effect on reporting Elections also the opportunity of Using ICT for access of information and reporting on Election plus risk involved. 

Bloggers and Editors during the training.

By Gasirigwa G.S
Giving stories fair and balanced treatment, working within the specified limits of laws and regulations, maintaining core values of the profession and ensuring the public makes informed choices were among the messages that emerged during the one day workshop for editors and bloggers in Dar es Salaam today.

A group of selected Dar es Salaam based editors and bloggers were earlier trained on how to safely access and share information during the October general election. The aim of the workshop was to improve/enhance knowledge and skills of selected media personnel in various outlets in order to enable them to access relevant information, cover and report qualitatively as well as responsibly the 2015 general election.

Key presentations focused on the contents of the Media Services Bill, Access to Information Law, Cybercrime and Statistics Acts as well as the 2015 election broadcasting Code.

One of the facilitator James Marenga (Advocate) highlighted the contents of the already tabled Media Services Bill and the Access to Information Law and cautioned participants that although these are not yet signed as Laws, the existing Newspaper Act of 1976 will punish them if they are not careful. “Our purpose is to lead people to make informed choices by giving them relevant reportage of the campaigns and the election but at the same time making sure that we are not contravening the existing laws”, he said.

The media are required to provide relevant information, analyse it and additionally offer substantive opinions to the public, while also serving as a platform for debate and discussion.

Furthermore, the media shall fulfill their watchdog role by promoting transparency and thus preventing electoral fraud. Make reference to the TBC- “Uchaguzimajimboni” program in 2010 General Election.

Marenga highlighted that media have a duty to provide election coverage that gives the voter comprehensive, accurate and reliable information on all aspects of the electoral process.

This information will also help to ensure that the voters know and understand their democratic rights and exercise them free from fear, intimidation or coercion.

“Many of you are not aware of the existing content of the Cybercrime Act and the subsidiary legislation on broadcasting that was gazzeted in June this year.

This will surely affect you and you shall go to jail if you are not careful. My appeal to you is to work safely within the existing law”, added MaxenceMelo from Jamii Media.


Blogger and Investigative Journalist Danny Mbega openly said that, despite working in the industry for decades, he wasn’t aware of so many things until today. His comments are echoed by blogger Geofrey Ernest of Habari.Com who says among other things that if most of these laws are in place, the future of Journalism is in jeopardy.

The training that took part in Dar Es Salaam brought together 18 mainstream media editors and bloggers and was supported by CIPESA, a Ugandan based organization that works to promote ICT policies and access to information in Africa.

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Father shot three times in front of his family

• Tuesday, 25 August 2015
• Written @Nkupamah blog

The Atlanta man who was shot when his home was invaded just as he and his wife had returned from a vacation said he remembers praying out loud, telling God he expected to meet him that day.
Mike Lash said he prayed.

“Lord, this is, I guess, the moment I will meet you today ... if it is not your will, I am ready to stay,” he said.

Lash and his wife, Whitney, and their two children had just come home from vacation on August 16 when there was a knock at their door.

According to the account given by the Lashes to ABC News, Lash answered the door and saw two young men who told him they had just moved in down the street and experienced car trouble. The two men said they needed a jack, according to Lash.

“I had a feeling that it was an excuse and we were about to be robbed. Right about that moment i saw them pull the gun on Mike,” she said.

Whitney took the couple’s six-month-old, Lucy, ran out the back door and called 911, telling the operator in a whisper that they were being robbed at gunpoint.

Mike said he tried to block the door when he saw the gun. He was shot three times in the left leg as the two men – joined by two others – forced themselves inside the couple’s home and began taking items. The couple’s 2-year-old son, Everson, was taking a nap upstairs.

“It just went like a silent movie. They started walking in and I remember them coming in and out multiple times, just bringing stuff from our house,” Mike said.

One of the intruders had also chased Whitney.

“I heard footsteps of someone running and two more shots that were aimed at me and my daughter,” she said, adding that the intruder caught up to her and took her phone.

Whitney and Lucy were unharmed. Everson, too, was unharmed. He slept through the whole thing.

The Lashes helped police to generate a sketch that led to the Thursday arrest of 18-year-old Brandon Jerome Smith.

Police are still searching for Smith’s three alleged accomplices. Police are urging them to turn themselves in.

Mike is recovering from his wounds, and he and Whitney are grateful.

“We really do value every moment we have together now and are just so thankful to have our family be safe and we are all closer than ever,” she said.

The community has rallied around them.

“We are floored by how much support we have gotten ... our friends in our community have been amazing,” Mike said. “It has made us all so much closer.”

Smith was charged with aggravated assault and armed robbery, an Atlanta Police Department spokesman said.

Source: ABC News.

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Drunk Naval officer accidentally shoots 3 people in Ikorodu

• Tuesday, 25 August 2015
• Written @nkupamah blog

There was pandemonium at Majidun area of Ikorodu yesterday as a Naval personnel allegedly shot 3 people, leaving them in a critical condition.

It was gathered that the incident occurred around 3p.m. at Tipper Park, when the Naval personnel, suspected to have been drunk, allegedly left his duty post to unwind, he visited the park and started playing with his gun, which went off and injured the three persons, who were going about their businesses at the park.

The gunshot caused pandemonium as business activities there were grounded for hours, while the victims were rushed to the hospital.

The victims were said to be in critical condition and were immediately referred to Lagos University Teaching Hospital, LUTH. The suspected naval officer was said to be one of the personnel mounting surveillance in the area to prevent pipeline vandalism.

It was gathered that one of the victims was a tipper driver, while the others were yet to be identified.

Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Patricia Amadin, confirmed the report, adding that the suspect had been arrested and was currently being detained at Naval Base, Ikorodu, while investigations into the matter continue.

Punch

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U.S. Ambassador Presents Grants to Community-based Organizations

United States Ambassador Mark B. Childress addressing members of different community-based organizations at a ceremony held at the U.S. Embassy in Dar es Salaam, where he awarded grants to 14 organizations working to improve the lives of Tanzanians. The grants awarded will directly benefit more than 5,000 people in 12 regions across the country and will improve services and opportunities in water and sanitation, health, education and economic development.

United States Ambassador Mark B. Childress (in front) in a group photo with members of different community-based organizations at a ceremony held at the U.S. Embassy in Dar es Salaam, where he awarded grants to 14 organizations working to improve the lives of Tanzanians. The grants awarded will directly benefit more than 5,000 people in 12 regions across the country and will improve services and opportunities in water and sanitation, health, education and economic development. (Photo: U.S. Embassy).

On August 24, 2015 at a ceremony at the U.S. Embassy in Dar es Salaam, United States Ambassador Mark B. Childress awarded community grants to 14 organizations working to improve the lives of Tanzanians.  The grants awarded today will directly benefit more than 5,000 people in 12 regions across the country and will improve services and opportunities in water and sanitation, health, education and economic development.

These grants were awarded under the U. S. Embassy’s Community Grants Program, which provides direct assistance to small, community-based, improvement projects through the “Ambassador's Special Self-Help Fund” and the “Ambassador's Fund for HIV/AIDS Relief.”  

The Self-Help Fund provides direct assistance grants to Tanzanian community organizations for projects designed to benefit villages and urban communities, and the Fund for HIV/AIDS Relief provides assistance specifically for communities heavily impacted or vulnerable to HIV/AIDS.  

The Ambassador's Special Self-Help Fund was established during Mwalimu Julius Nyerere's first presidential term. For 50 years, these grants have helped community-based organizations in every region of Tanzania to improve the lives of local Tanzanians by building schools, providing access to clean water, utilizing solar energy and starting new commercial initiatives. The Ambassador's Fund for HIV/AIDS Relief started in 2009 and has provided grants to 69 community-groups in Tanzania. Both programs continue the strong tradition of U.S.-Tanzania citizen partnership.

Ambassador's Self-Help Fund Awards 2015:

Chama Cha Wazazi Wenye Watoto Walemavu Tabora (CHAWAWAWATA) will provide 5 ground nuts machines for 5 women's groups in Tabora region. 

Congregation of the Mission will build latrines for two primary schools in Ruvuma region.

Iyunga Centre for Disabled in Mbeya region will provide 23 sewing machines to train youth and persons living with disabilities. 

Jumuiya ya Maendeleo Jimbo la Ziwani (JUMAJZI) will use funds to finish the library and science lab of Kwale Mini Secondary School in Pemba.

Kangagani Secondary School in Pemba will use funds to complete the roof for 6 classrooms and two offices.

Karakana ya Walemavu Dodoma (KAWADO) will provide equipment and metal work materials for training 50 persons with disabilities in making wheel chairs in Dodoma region.

Mary Mother of God Perpetual Help Center will provide bunk beds, mattresses, sheets, pillows and linens for persons living with albinism and disabilities in Simiyu region.

Tumaini la Maisha Tanzania of Muhimbili Pediatric Oncology Ward, Dar es Salaam, will provide services of translating Parent/Caregiver hand book, maintenance and repairs to fire extinguishers and water filters, school books as well as a DVD player, computer and financial program for their finance department.

Sangananu Ukombozi Women Group in Usa River region, will purchase 3 sewing machines and supplies.

Shirika la Kujenga Uwezo kwa Jamii Mkoa wa Njombe (SHIKUJANJO) will provide laboratory equipment to Mabatini Secondary School in Njombe region.

Veyula Community Skills Development Organization will purchase tools and supplies to provide vocational skills to 100 youth in Dodoma region.

The Ambassador's Fund for HIV/AIDS Relief awards:

Jipe Moyo - Hunyari Positive will purchase 17 goats and build pens to improve access to healthy diet for PLWHA in Mara region.

Rural Women Development Initiative (RUWODI) will purchase 17 sewing machines, furnishings and supplies to provide PLWHA and OVC affected by HIV/AIDS to learn sewing trade in Coast region.

Evangelical Lutheran Church of Tanzania Bega kwa Bega (ELCT) and Saint Paul Partners Tz will provide solar power pump and two SIM tanks to the Lukani Dispensary in Iringa region.

The Ambassador’s Special Self-Help Fund and The Ambassador's Fund for HIV/AIDS Relief are part of the U.S. Embassy’s Community Grants Program. To learn more about the Community Grants Program, please visit the grants page on our U.S. Embassy website or contact the U.S. Embassy’s Community Grants Office at selfhelpd@state.gov or by mail at U.S. Embassy Dar es Salaam, P.O. Box 9123, Dar es Salaam.

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PRESIDENT MUSEVENI ADDRESSES EALA IN KAMPALA

 President Yoweri Museveni shakes hands with the Deputy Clerk of EALA, Alex Obatre as Executives of the EAC and Parliament of Uganda look on

 H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni signs the visitors book at the Parliament of Uganda as the EALA Speaker, Rt. Hon Daniel F. Kidega looks on  

 H.E. President Museveni stresses a point at the Special Sitting.  On right is the EALA Speaker, Rt Hon Daniel F. Kidega.

EAST African Legislative Assembly, Arusha, August 24, 2015:  President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni Friday addressed the 1^st of the 4^th Session of 3^rd Assembly at the Parliament of Uganda in Kampala.

In his address, the President termed prosperity and security of the region as two key ingredients necessary to keep integration process on track.  He urged the EAC to support prosperity of the producers in the agricultural sector to support integration.  

“Prosperity is about services, markets and it is important to leverage and take advantage of the market”, H.E. Museveni said. The President maintained that it was time for the region to consolidate on the gains realised in the region

The President said that Uganda was key to export its agricultural products in the EAC region including sugar products.  “Uganda is today producing more sugar than it needs.  Following the discussions with H.E. President Uhuru Kenyatta recently, we have agreed to open the market for this products further”, he said.  

The President maintained that Uganda was similarly open to receiving goods from Kenya under the integration arrangement. President Museveni said Kenyan exports to Uganda are estimated at $700 million up from $200 million in 1986 compared to imports worth $150 million up from $12 million in the same period.

He thanked President Kenyatta for agreeing to remove non-tariff barriers, deepen commercial ties and widen the regional market. President Museveni remarked that Uganda produces about 465,000 tonnes of sugar annually against a consumption of 320,000 tonnes, leaving it with a 145,000-tonne surplus.

He called on the EAC bloc to negotiate together with other blocs in the globe. “We have a reasonable market now and we can effectively compete. Let us negotiate with China and other big players”, he said.

The President called on Partner States to add value to production in order to enjoy competitiveness. “The Federal Republic of Ethiopia which has a population of 90 Million people, today assembles its automobile industries and this has led to creation of employment of over 160,000 jobs for the locals.   Automobile assemblage can reduce costs by 57%,” he said.

President Museveni said he submitted proposals to the Summit of EAC Heads of State to explore the possibility of local assemblage of vehicles.    “We need to create jobs, transfer technology for the region to be prosperous”, President Museveni told the attentive audience.

The President maintained that the EAC was on course and its progress irreversible. The President noted that the Community was on the verge of prosperous economic development and better quality of life for its citizens following the significant progress in a number of socio-economic and political spheres.

The Head of State hailed the forefathers of EAC for their visionary leadership. “I hail President Moi and Mwinyi who together with myself resurrected integration after seeing the benefits. I am grateful to them and we have since moved together, making tremendous progress” he added.

He lauded EALA for initiating the EAC Creative and Cultural Industries Bill saying it gave citizens such as performing artists to advantage of integration and to widen their markets.

On Security, the Head of State said that strategic security was key.  “We must put our interests fast and secure ourselves from those who want to dominate us, he said, adding that it was time for challenges such as NTBs to be weeded out once and for all.

He said Uganda was mapping strategies to be a first world country in the next 20 years and thus deemed it necessary to fight for its competitive space.  ‘Even if these were to happen, the question is how secure would Uganda be by itself?The President paused.

The Head of State said the region was opening up and clearing up strategic bottlenecks to be more prosperous.  He said the market fragmentation was now been consolidated. 

He however cited the challenges of insecurity faced in Burundi, South Sudan and Congo and said solutions were necessary.

H.E. Museveni said a better infrastructure was now been realized and said the region was on the way to deepening economic integration. The President gave a nod to EALA Speaker’s request on modalities to streamline assent of Bills during the meeting of the EAC Heads of State. 

“The principle of jointly signing (assent) of Bills when we sit as Summit is a good idea if we can finalise on the modalities”, H.E. Museveni said. The Head of State remarked that what the region now needed was to strengthen competitiveness, address costs doing business and reduce risks.

In attendance were key government officials led by the Prime Minister of the Republic of Uganda, Rt Hon Dr Ruhakana Rugunda, EALA and Parliament of Uganda Members and representatives of the diplomatic corp among others.

In his welcome remarks, the Speaker of the EALA, Rt. Hon Daniel F. Kidega noted that the Sitting was taking place at an irreversible time in the regional integration process. He called on the Summit of EAC Heads of State to hasten the process of the Monetary Union and inevitably the Political Federation.  He told President Museveni and the Summit of the EAC Heads of State to revisit the issue of the fast-tracking the Political Federation

“This will enable us to be stronger and more united for without the Political Union, we shall remain vulnerable to world forces,” Rt. Hon Kidega noted.The EALA Speaker noted that the Assembly had made progress since December 2014 and cited some of the milestones realized.

“Since I took over the Speakership of the Assembly in December 2014, the Assembly has passed a total of 6 Bills, 5 Resolutions, adopted 12 Reports and asked the Council of Ministers to respond to sets of questions deemed vital to strengthening the EAC. 

We have also received 2 petitions from the youth and the regional Workers’ Union and the employer association. Both petitions are currently under review by the relevant Committees of EALA.  Our representative function has continued to be felt through engagements with different stakeholders even though this is an area we need to further strengthen”, he said.

The Assembly which commenced business on August 16^th, 2015 has debated and adopted two key Committee Reports; one on investment Strategies in the region and another on the Legal Framework and implementation policies on the rights of Children.  It has also commenced on debate on the EAC Cultural and Creative Industries Bill, 2015.

The Speaker cited challenges facing the Assembly as that concerning the Assent of Bills stating that it was necessary to speed up the processes.“Whilst it is purely in order for Heads of State to receive briefs, before assenting to Bills, the logistical mode of having to move from one Partner State to another in itself present challenges.

We are of the view that the region takes advantage of the Summit sittings which can create opportune moment for the Summit Members to exercise their mandate as stipulated under Article 63.  Your Excellency, we shall seek your further advice on this matter” Speaker Kidega said. 

The Speaker also called on the stakeholders to ensure electioneering in the region does not disrupt nation building.“Unpatriotic politicians and citizens the Speaker noted, can stir emotions leading to disruption in society, erosion of investor confidence and lull in economic programmes, Speaker Kidega said. He urged stakeholders in the Partner States to reverse the trend.

There are undeniably some positive democratic milestones that we can be proud of as a region. There are also grave mistakes that we have made and that we must steer clear of in future.  We appeal to all actors concerned with elections as a matter of necessity to ensure citizens’ enjoy their fundamental political and civil liberties, promote a culture of peace and tolerance and insulate electoral management bodies from undue pressures. 

In this way, we stand to secure the future of our region for posterity, the regional Assembly Speaker stated.   Moving the vote of thanks, Hon Saoli Ole Nkanae noted that Uganda had progressed following the leadership of President Museveni.

“I have followed your history closely. Came from humble beginnings.  In the short span, he has transformed country from sectarian dictatorship that was non-performing to an economic country with opportunities for all”, Hon Nkanae said.

“Your role in resurrecting the EAC Community is laudable and we note that you have continued to fast-track integration and offer good leadership”, the legislator said.

 Hon Nkanae said that EALA was committed to actively playing its mandate to strengthen integration.

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Fastjet REAL DEAL QUIZ COMPETITION

Fastjet announces SOPHIA SAID as the winner of real deal quiz competition. 

Sophia attempted CORRECTLY several questions that were posted on Fastjet Facebook page about REAL DEAl. 

Fastjet has awarded Sophia Said return flights tickets for two people on a Fastjet route of Sophia’s choice

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the 3rd Annual Cyber Defense East Africa Summit held in Dar Es Salaam on 11-08-2015

@nkupamah.com

The Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) Director General Dr. Ally Yahaya Simba (left), addresses the 3^rd Annual Cyber Defense East Africa Summit held in Dar Es Salaam on 11-08-2015. The event was opened by e-Government Agency Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Jabiri Kuwe Bakari (right) on-behalf of the Chief Secretary, Ambassador Ombeni Sefue. . (Photo by  Courtesy  TCRA)

The Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) Director General Dr. Ally Yahaya Simba (right), e-Government Agency Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Jabiri Kuwe Bakari (centre) and of Dar Es Salaam  Teknohama Business Incubator (DTBi)CEO, Eng. George Mulamula  address a news conference during the 3^rd Annual  Cyber Defense East Africa Summit held  in Dar Es salaam on 11-08-2015. Dr. Bakari opened the summit on-behalf of the Chief Secretary, Ambassador Ombeni Sefue. (Photo by  Courtesy  TCRA)

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Ndugai in the spotlight after scuffle at CCM meeting

Thursday, July 30, 2015

Mr Ndugai 

In Summary

Mr Ndugai could face party sanctioning if it is proven that he indeed deliberately assaulted an opponent, Dr Joseph Chilongani. Party rules require that primary election candidates conduct their campaigns in a civil manner.

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EAC: Managing resources vital

Sunday, August 2, 2015

EAC secretary general Richard Sezibera. 

In Summary

“The natural resources play a vital role in the wellbeing of the communities and the economies of the countries in the region,” said EAC secretary general Richard Sezibera.

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Mtikila brings up independent candidate debate once again

Sunday, August 2, 2015

Democratic Party (DP) chairman Rev Christopher Mtikila(right), received presidential nomination forms from National Electoral Commission (NEC), official George Kashura in Dar es Salaam yesterday. Right his running mate Juma Metu Juma. PHOTO| SAID KHAMIS 

In Summary

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CCM breaks silence on Lowassa’s decamping

Saturday, August 1, 2015

CCM Urban regional  chairman Borafya Silima Juma speaks to journalists at the CCM Kisiwandui Office in Zanzibar yesterday. With him are party officials. PHOTO| CORRESPONDENT 

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Parliamentarians query education standards in EA

Monday, August 3, 2015

Kawnzige primary School standard two pupils sitting in their classroom waiting for teacher to taught. Kawnzige is the best number one in standard seven national examination at Mpanda Municipal in Katavi region. PHOTO| FILE 

In Summary

“What then if not education will the poor hold onto?”, she asked during a recent presentation of a report to Eala by a regional civil society think-tank Twaweza on the state of education in the region.

By Zephania Ubwani

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Aspirants withdraw from CCM preferential election

Saturday, August 1, 2015

 

In Summary

The CCM secretary in Srerengeti District, Mr Paulo Mwita, confirmed to have received a withdraw letter from the two

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SOCCER : Azam are Kagame Cup champs

Monday, August 3, 2015

Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Said Meck Sadick hands over the Cecafa Kagame Cup trophy to Azam FC captain John Bocco at the National Stadium in Dar es Salaam yesterday. Azam beat Gor Mahia 2-0. PHOTO| ANTHONY SIAME 

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Joy for poor boy as donor to pay all school fees

Monday, August 3, 2015

The mother of Ufunuo(from left), the boy whose all school fees will be paid by a good Samaritan, Theodosia Maua, is see in this photo with one of her children. 

In Summary

The boy, whose mother has been struggling to pay his school fees, did not believe it when this writer broke the good news to him. A good Samaritan had decided to pay his school fees till he finishes school.

By Stella Barozi

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DC decries abuse of women, girls

Pangani District commissioner Regina Chonjo. 

In Summary

According to research conducted by a local organisation that is pioneering creative and innovative grassroots interventions, Uzikwasa, the incidents are rampant in the district.

By George Sembony

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