Tanzania Roundup: Tanzania-Zambia railway, heavy rains, new IPU president
China’s interest in Tanzania-Zambia railway
Beijing has shown an interest in running the multi-national railway line owned by Tanzania and Zambia. The Chinese may be looking to export copper via the Tanzania-Zambia railway line. As reported by the Tanzania Times, Beijing has been in talks with Lusaka and Dar-es-Salaam to take charge of operations of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA).
Heavy rains wreak havoc
More than 150 people have been left homeless after heavy rains demolished 30 houses in Kalambo district in the Rukwa region in Tanzania's southern highlands, Lazaro Komba, Kalambo District commissioner said on Friday. According to The East African, the Kalambo District commissioner expressed that some victims have taken refuge from their relatives while others have been accommodated in public schools.
IPU elects new president
National Assembly Speaker, Dr. Tulia Ackson, has been elected as the new president of the International Parliamentary Union (IPU), succeeding Portugal's Duarte Pacheco. Dr Ackson, a PhD holder in law, will lead the organisation, which represents legislators worldwide, for a three-year term. She won the election with 57 per cent of the vote in a single round, defeating three other candidates during the IPU's 147th Assembly in Luanda, Angola, according to The East African.
Heshimu Bahari project receives additional funds
The US Agency for International Development (USAID) has announced an increase in funding from $13 million to $25 million for the Heshimu Bahari project, aimed at enhancing conservation efforts in critical areas for marine biodiversity and climate adaptation. According to Daily News reports, the decision will extend the project's reach along the south coast of the mainland, covering marine management areas such as the Dar es Salaam Marine Reserve System, Mafia Kilwa Seascape, and Mnazi Bay Ruvuma Estuary Marine Park.
Women’s participation in politics
The Tanzania Centre for Democracy (TCD) has inaugurated a women's forum in Dar es Salaam to bolster women's engagement in politics and democracy. According to Daily News reports, TCD Chairperson Prof Ibrahimu Lipumba encouraged women to use the platform for constructive discussions on issues affecting them and advocated for a constitution that represents citizens' views.
