Africa-Press – Tanzania. A GROUP of journalists in Mwanza has organised the “Mafiga Manne” Symposium to discuss the development achievements during President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s four years in office.
The event is scheduled for Thursday next week and is expected to engage between 3,000 and 3,500 participants from various sectors, including dignitaries, academicians and politicians with different ideologies.
Other attendees will include farmers, fishers, public transport service providers—mainly motorcyclists—and small-scale traders, commonly known as “machinga,” among others.
Symposium coordinator Mr Aloyce Nyanda stated over the weekend that participants will have the opportunity to share their views, highlighting areas where they are satisfied with the progress made and where gaps still exist in terms of development.
“The gathering serves as a platform for Tanzanians, who, through the ballot, place political leaders in office, including the President. They have the right to give opinions and advice on the goals they want to see achieved within a given time-frame,” said Mr Nyanda.
He added that a similar symposium was held last year under the name “Mafiga Matatu,” graced by Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa, who responded to numerous questions and opinions from participants.
“For instance, people raised concerns about power stability and the Prime Minister assured them that the ongoing electricity challenges would be resolved within two months. Indeed, the issue was addressed within the promised period, especially after the Mwalimu Nyerere Hydroelectric Power Plant became operational. As symposium organisers, we followed up and confirmed that the power plant was in use,” affirmed Mr Nyanda.
He urged residents to attend the symposium in large numbers, emphasising that the government serves everyone, regardless of their religious or political beliefs.
Commenting ahead of the event, Mwanza residents, including the Chairperson of the Regional Petty Traders Association, Mr Mohammed Daud, welcomed the symposium, noting that it provides an opportunity to express both appreciation and concerns.
According to Mr Daud, one of the key achievements to acknowledge is the construction of the Kigongo-Busisi Bridge, which was below 50 per cent complete when President Samia took office on March 19, 2021 and is now over 95 per cent complete.
“It is a multi-billion project that benefits not only Tanzanians but also our neighbouring countries, as the bridge connects almost all East African nations. It will enhance interactions, particularly for economic purposes, thus improving individual and national well-being,” he commented.
However, he pointed out a gap in the government’s tax payment system, calling for immediate reforms to make tax compliance more accessible to everyone. According to him, “machinga” traders are among those excluded from the tax system due to their lack of permanent trading facilities, despite their willingness to pay taxes
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