Air Tanzania, TWIGA issue 18

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Global streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime and Apple TV have transformed what we watch and the way we watch it. While it is true evenings spent 'Netflix and chilling' or binge-watching your favourite series late into the night are not doing much for our increasingly sedentary lifestyles, the fact that Netflix is financing film projects that reflect the disparate mix of its 214 million subscribers across more than 190 countries is a boon to the world's creatives. Take for example, 2023 Netflix release African Folktales Re-imagined, an anthology that includes the Tanzanian-made Katope. The short film was shot in the small village of Nzali in the Dodoma Region with a script in both Swahili and local language kiGogo. It means the world will be able to experience Gogo culture and open more opportunities for Tanzanians to tell their stories. For details on the making of this amazing film, head to page 7 in this issue of Twiga. I hope there are plenty more stories inside to entertain you. Thanks for reading and have a great flight!

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Air Tanzania ATCL

A landmark landing

It is my pleasure to welcome you onboard your Air Tanzania flight today. You fly with us at an important time for our airline and for African aviation as a whole.

On June 3 we took delivery of a Boeing 767-300F, which is not only our first dedicated freighter but also the first 767 freighter to be delivered directly from Boeing.

The official arrival of the freighter at Julius Nyerere International Airport was a high-profile event with esteemed guests including Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan. (You’ll find a full report on page 6).

Having the Boeing 767-300F means we can now expand our cargo operations in capacity and reach destinations including Johannesburg, Lagos, Mumbai and Guangzhou.

As our cargo route network expands so do our passenger destinations with direct flights now resumed from Dar es Salaam to Guangzhou with three flights every week.

Valued passenger, thank you for your part in our journey as we pass another important milestone as Tanzania’s national carrier.

Eng. Ladislaus Matindi Managing Director and Chief Executive Air Tanzania

Kutua kwa kihistoria

Ni furaha kubwa kwangu kukukaribisha kwenye ndege yetu ya Air Tanzania leo hii. Safari hii, mnasafiri nasi katika kipindi muhimu sana kwa kampuni yetu ya ndege, na kwa safari za anga za Afrika kwa ujumla.

Naam, nasema hivi kwa kuwa mnamo tarehe 3 Juni mwaka huu, tuliipokea ndege yetu aina ya Boeing 767-300F, ambayo si tu kuwa ndiyo ndege yetu ya kwanza kabisa ya mizigo kuimiliki, bali pia ndiyo ndege aina ya 767 ya kwanza kuwasilishwa kwetu moja kwa moja kutokea kwa watengenezaji bingwa wa ndege duniani, Boeing.

Kuwasili (kutua) rasmi kwa ndege hii pale kwenye uwanja wa ndege wa kimataifa wa Julius Nyerere kulikuwa ni tukio la hadhi kubwa sana lililohudhuriwa na wageni mahsusi, akiwemo Rais wa Jamhuri ya Muungano wa Tanzania, Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan. (Mtaona ripoti kamili kwenye ukurasa wa 6.)

Kuwa na Boeing 767-300F kunamaanisha kwamba sasa tunaweza kutanua wigo wa safari zetu za mizigo na kufikia maeneo mengi zaidi yakiwemo Johannesburg, Lagos, Mumbai na Guangzhou.

Wakati mtandao wa safari zetu za kusafirisha mizigo ukitanuka kwa kiwango hicho, pia usafirishaji wetu wa abiria moja kwa moja kutoka

Dar es Salaam kwenda Guangzhou nao umerudi tena, sasa kukiwa kuna safari tatu kila wiki.

Tunakushukuru na kukuthamini sana wewe abiria wetu, kwa mchango wako kwenye safari yetu hii

wakati tukifanikiwa kutimiza hatua nyingine kubwa tukiwa wasafirishaji wa anga wa taifa la Tanzania.

Air Tanzania gets Africa’s first direct delivery of Boeing freighter

On June 3 our first Boeing 767-300F freighter aircraft touched down at Dar es Salaam airport. The historic moment marked the first dedicated 767 freighter aircraft to be delivered to an African carrier directly from the US aircraft manufacturer.

The aircraft’s arrival in Dar was the culmination of a more than 16,000 km flight that began at the Boeing Factory’s Everett Airfield on the US west coast and included a refuelling stop in Casablanca, Morocco. The Boeing 767-300F’s maiden voyage was piloted by Air Tanzania’s Captain Neema Swai.

As Captain Neema brought the freighter in to land at Julius Nyerere International Airport she was greeted by a huge crowd of dignitaries as part of an inauguration ceremony. Guest of honour was Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan along with government officials and aviation industry stakeholders. In keeping with aviation tradition, the freighter received a water cannon salute from airport fire trucks on arrival.

The dedicated freight aircraft will empower Air Tanzania’s cargo operations and economic growth. While previous cargo transportation was done in the hold of our passenger aircraft and thus limited to the passenger route network, we can now expand our cargo operations in capacity and reach.

In his speech at the inauguration ceremony, Air Tanzania Managing

Director Eng. Ladislaus Matindi said: “We are thrilled to welcome the Boeing 767-300 Freighter to our fleet. The 767 will meet the increasing demand for cargo transportation, which was previously reliant on passenger planes. With the 767, Air Tanzania can contribute to a more sustainable future and ensure the prompt delivery of time-critical cargo throughout Africa and beyond. We look forward to expanding our imports and exports, boosting national economic growth, and providing global businesses with opportunities to transport commercial cargo goods worldwide.”

The Boeing 767-300f facts and figures

Capacity: 54 tonnes

Range: 6,025 km

Max fuel capacity: 90,770 litres

Wingspan: 156 feet

Cruising speed: 850km/h

Length: 180 ft

DESTINATIONS:

Nairobi, Dubai, Mumbai, Guangzhou, Harare, Kinshasa, Lagos, Johannesburg, (also available for on demand/charter flights).

FANTASY FILM bringing the stories of home to the world

Kapote, a magical Tanzanianmade film set in the Dodoma region and with a script in both Kiswahili and local language ciGogo is now available to watch across 190 countries as part of Netflix series African Folktales Reimagined.

Rebecca Mzengi Corey and Walter ‘Walt’ Mzengi, the husband-and-wife team behind the film’s creation, hope the release of Katope is just the beginning of more global exposure for Tanzania’s storied indigenous heritage. Rebecca says: “We’re so happy that this means that people around the world will be able to experience Gogo culture. We saw a tweet where someone from Dodoma said they felt that this was

the introduction of ciGogo (the language) onto the world stage, and that they were surprised because they never expected to hear their own local language in a film, let alone on a huge global platform like Netflix. Hopefully it also means that more opportunities will come for Tanzanians to make films that are about their stories.”

Folktale origins

The cautionary folktale of Katope about a young boy – or sometimes a girl – who is created from clay by an elderly childless couple is well-known in Tanzania. A written version in English by respected local author Walter Bgoya was published in 2004, but the story goes back

much further, passed down orally through generations of families. The word-of-mouth transfer means there are different versions of the story circling, one of which Walt's grandmother told him while he was visiting his family in the village of Nkulabi in the Dodoma Region.

For Walt, who currently lives with Rebecca and their young family in New York and learnt his filmmaking craft in Dar es Salaam, developing the story as a film was “an opportunity to connect with my family and ancestors. Indigenous languages and cultures in Tanzania are being slowly forgotten so telling this story was also an act of remembrance. We began with my mother’s version of the story as a starting point – which

Snapped up by Netflix, Tanzanian-made Katope is bringing Gogo culture to the world. Its creators reveal to Mark Edwards how the film brings a contemporary relevance to an ancient folktale.

The film was selected for this year's Zanzibar International Film Festival

is really told from the parent’s point of view and warns children to obey their elders – but then deconstructed it and thought about how the story relates to contemporary times. For example, what makes a strong community? In our version, Katope is someone who is different, but she can still find her place in society and actually play an important role in it, if she is free to be herself and make her own choices.”

Rebecca adds: “There are many versions and variations of the Katope story, but what they do share is that they are cautionary tales about obeying authority (your parents). We wanted to update that and make the story more from the point of view of this young person. In our version, she ends up choosing her own path.”

Life and art merge

The couple honed their version of the story at an artists’ residency at Nafasi Arts Space. Rebecca was executive director at the leading contemporary art centre and creative hub in Dar es Salaam from 2016 to late last year and recruited Walter in 2021 – “only later did I realize he was also meant to be my husband,” she reveals – to help set up Sauti Mpya, a film training programme which continues to this day.

Their work developing the film coincided with the worst drought Tanzania had suffered in 40 years

with the Dodoma region’s renowned arable farmlands highly degraded as a result. The original folktale draws on the importance of the rainy seasons for the communities and Rebecca and Walt were keen to relate the story to contemporary times and our growing understanding of climate change. Walt says: “Droughts have been common in Dodoma for a long time, but they’re becoming much more severe and frequent, making it much harder for people to survive. This is one of the factors driving a lot of young people to leave smaller towns and villages and go to big cities like Dar es Salaam, where the gulf between the memories and stories of home and a new urban life becomes quite wide.”

Rebecca, who co-wrote the script with Walt and is the film’s executive producer, says: “In researching about drought, we also learned about local ways of predicting and calling for

rain, which we felt were important to include. And without giving away too much, we also wanted to build more elements of magical realism and fantasy into the story.”

Walt sent the film treatment to Netflix last year, after the global streaming service, in collaboration with Unesco, issued a call for submissions for an African folktales competition. Among more than 2,000 applications from 13 African countries, Kapote was among the six to be picked.

Awarded a budget of US$ 90,000 and with established filmmakers attached as mentors, Walt and Rebecca could make their film dream a reality. Rebecca says: “Netflix was quite involved in the project, and part of the opportunity included having an experienced mentor to help guide us through the process. Tosh Gitonga, an incredible filmmaker from Kenya, was Walt’s mentor, and Big World Cinema which is based in South Africa was the supervising executive producer.”

Walt has already directed several shorts that have been selected for festival screenings. He has been a film enthusiast since he can remember and as a teenager developed his camera and editing skills shooting footage of skateboard tricks performed by him and his friends, who made up the nascent Dar skate scene at that time. He went on to study for a film degree at AFDA in Cape Town, graduating in 2020.

Choosing Nzali

Also involved in the Katope shoot were a team of creatives from Nafasi.

“I believe more than half of the crew were people we had met and worked with through Nafasi,” says Rebecca.

“It just speaks to the importance of spaces that bring artists and creatives together and give them support and resources to grow.”

The intention had always been to shoot the film in the Dodoma region. Much of the research and pre-production was done in Nkulabi, an “amazing experience” which gave

Walt – who grew up in Dar and then Maryland, USA – a long-dreamed of homecoming and the chance to introduce his wife and daughter to his “bibi” (grandmother). However, when it came to the location for the four-day film shoot, the crew chose another village in the Dodoma Region, Nzali.

“The main reason for choosing Nzali is that it’s where the Nyati Mchoya musical group is based, and we knew we wanted to feature them in the film,” says Walt.

Local actors

Nyati Mchoya is a group from the Wagogo Tupu community formed in 1966 with the current line-up the grandchildren of the original members. Original music from the band performed on traditional instruments such as drums, a double-headed lyre, shakers and animal skins make up the soundtrack of Katope and members of the group were also cast in the film’s principal roles. None of them had any previous acting experience, but Rebecca says they shine on screen with 12-yearold Rahele Matete in the title role a revelation.

Rebecca says: “Rahele brings nuance to the role. She understood Katope’s circumstances and her personal journey. Her doubts, fears, and desire for both belonging and individuality are expressed by Rahele through her facial expressions and body language, often without her even needing to speak.”

The cast and 20-strong crew were united by “a complete commitment to bringing the story to life”, Rebecca adds and indeed the entire village got involved during the four-day shoot.

“They welcomed us warmly and helped connect us with the wider

community,” Rebecca says. “There was a lot of curiosity about the project, and many people would come and watch when we were filming in a public area. Many people also joined in as extras, going so far as to bring their own props from home to help make the film feel truly authentic and genuine.

Walt and Rebecca hope that the people of Nzali and other communities in the Dodoma Region will soon have a chance to see screenings of Katope. The film won the Ousmane Sembene award at this year’s Zanzibar International Film Festival and Walt says: “We would love to screen the film across the Dodoma region, which is home to more than three million people. We think it would be amazing for people to get to watch a film in their mother tongue, based on one of the stories that originated there!”

NETFLIX

Katope is one of six short films in Netflix anthology African Folktales Reimagined, available to stream with a subscription now. Visit netflix.com

The main reason for choosing Nzali is that it’s where the Nyati Mchoya musical group is based, and we knew we wanted to feature them in the film

LIFE IS A ROLLERCOASTER The best fun parks across our network

Thrill seeker alert! From rollercoasters to water slides, there are plenty of adrenaline-pumping activities to be had at fun parks across the Air Tanzania network. Here are our picks.

CHIMELONG PARADISE

Guangzhou

This super-sized amusement park stretches over 60 hectares, contains more than 60 attractions and brings in around 50,000 visitors every day. It is classified as AAAAA attraction by the China National Tourism Administration. Disappointingly, this ranking is not due to the chorus of screams of “aaaaa!” from visitors as they soar and dive at speeds of up to 105 km per hour on the five on-site rollercoasters, but rather means Chimelong Paradise is among China’s most prestigious attractions alongside the similarly 5A Great Wall of China and Beijing Olympic Park. The park’s most famous attraction is the 10 Inversion Rollercoaster, which, as its name suggests, flips its passengers head

over heels 10 times during the course of its adrenaline-pumping ride. Also on-site is Chimelong Water Park and Chimelong Safari Park, the latter home to bamboo-munching giant panda cubs. There are tickets that enable you to visit all three parks.

FUN CITY

Dar es Salaam

Whether you want roller coasters or wave machines, this family-friendly complex, the only water and theme park in East Africa, has got you covered. Situated in the coastal Dar es Salaam suburb of Kigamboni, it is about an hour’s drive east from the city centre. The lush, green park can accommodate more than 10,000 people at a time and visitors can choose from 25 different rides for all age groups. Its rollercoasters range from the white-knuckle Zyclone –which after a nerve-jangling slow rise, plunges its riders through hairpin bends and steep drops –to the train-style Dragon which zips along its zig-zagging track. And don’t forget to bring your swimming costumes, because fun city also has the largest wave pool in Tanzania and all manner of water slides.

Chimelong Water Park, Guangzhou

Nairobi's Luna Park attractions

Water slides at Fun City, Dar es Salaam

GuoZhongHua / Shutterstock.com

LUNA PARK

Nairobi

Just moments from Nairobi’s central business district (CBD) is the biggest outdoor amusement park in the city, Luna Park. Set in the urban green space of Uhuru Park, visiting Luna Park is a chance to escape the bustle of the metropolis and focus on fun. With the neighbouring Shark’s Palace Resort there is plenty of food and drinks options or you can just bring a picnic. The majority of the rides are aimed at youngsters, but thrill seekers should head for the swinging chain ride, which makes you feel like you are flying through the air. You’ll need a head for heights to get on the Big Wheel, but you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views of the city from the top. You can pay for individual rides or buy a KES 3,000 day ticket for unlimited rides.

DELLA ADVENTURE PARK

Mumbai

Set among the green hills and valleys of Lonavala – about an hour’s drive from Mumbai – is India’s largest adventure park. Here you’ll find more than 50 adrenaline-fuelled adventures, among India’s only Swoop swing (a bit like attempting a bungee jump in a sleeping bag), India’s longest zipline in its Flying Fox zipline, zorbing, dirt bike riding, paintball and rappelling. Cyclists may also want to note that the park has some hair-raising twowheeled adventures from riding a bike on a zip line to plenty of tandem bikes to share.

AZAM MARINE WATER PARK

Zanzibar

No surprise that a water sports lover’s paradise such as Zanzibar has an aquatic theme to its biggest fun park. The park is located beachside within the grounds of Hotel Verde, but you don’t have to be a guest of ‘Zanzibar’s greenest hotel’ to enjoy it – just come along on a Saturday or Sunday and pay the entry fee. In return, the park offers much to keep young and old visitors happy. There are plenty of water chutes or for a real test of your sliding skills there is Flow Rider, a surf machine in which you can ride jets of water on a bodyboard. Fusion Fortress always gathers a crowd with its centrepiece a huge drinks cup that slowly fills with water until it flips upside down, drenching all below. Elsewhere you can have a water shootout with the aqua spray guns or float gentl on an inflatable raft along the canal of water that frames the park.

Della Adventure Park, Lonavala

Plenty of activities at Azam Marine's Water Park

THE INVESTMENTS SET TO SHAPE TANZANIA: RUMOUR OR REAL?

With its wealth of natural resources, tourism appeal and a rapidly growing young population, Tanzania has become one of the most attractive African countries to outside investment. Recent mooted projects have grabbed the headlines for their lofty ambitions and the supposed involvement of some of the world’s most notable risk-takers. Twiga takes a closer look at these ‘moonshot’ projects and examines the chances they will ever be part of Tanzania’s future.

The story: If built, this iconic semi-urban resort development will be Africa's tallest building at over 100 floors. It will also be the continent's first integrated resort destination built on a man-made island. Along with a observation deck at the top of the tower, the complex will house two luxurious international branded hotels with over 560 rooms and suite,. The ambitious project includes a 1.4km bridge connecting the island to the mainland plaza (itself a unique feature along the coast).

Early renderings of the design reveal a curved structure at the tower’s base that will form a sheltered cove in the Indian Ocean, lined with docks to accommodate arriving vessels. The shape is reminiscent of cascading dominoes – a feature that has given the building its name and which was the germ of inspiration for the building’s developer and designer, Jean-Paul Cassia, CEO of London and Dubai-based development and design firm XCASSIA.

Elon Musk ‘tweets’ he is seeking approval for his satellite internet project, Starlink, in Tanzania

Why is it important? Such an iconic structure could become a new emblem of high-end tourism and hospitality on the Zanzibar archipelago. XCassia has described the project’s “live-work-playcelebrate” as a unifying theme on par with global destinations while the government coined it a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” to showcase Tanzania and Zanzibar’s continued success in its stable policies and goals.

Chances it will happen: New investors have emerged for the project, but it is going to require some seriously deep pockets: initially estimated at around $1.0b to build – that’s close to half of Zanzibar’s entire budget for the year 2021-2022. Cassia says: "A major portion of the development costs will be raised from asset sales and strategic phasing. We are confident in the viability of the scheme for the region.” The estimated time frame for completion will be announced soon with four and a half years looking likely.

The story: The world’s richest man, Elon Musk, not only owns Twitter – the result of a US$ 44 bn shopping spree in November last year – he is also an avid user of the social media service with more than 80 million people following his reliably inflammatory tweets. In February this year US entrepreneur Mike Coudrey, who is aiming to disrupt the global avocado industry with his 5,000-acre Tova Farm in Tanzania, tweeted Musk concerning Starlink, a satellite internet constellation

operated by the Musk-formed spacecraft manufacturer SpaceX. The tweet read: “Make Starlink available in Eastern Africa, specifically Tanzania so people can have a higher access to information and build a better future.” Musk replied the same day with: “We would love to. Just waiting for government approvals.”

Why is it important? Tanzania’s telecom sector is experiencing tremendous growth already, but the arrival of a

Frederic LegrandCOMEO / Shutterstock.com

Zanzibar Domino

gamechanger such as Starlink would truly shake things up. Starlink provides highspeed, low-latency broadband internet connections to parts of the planet threat are traditionally under served like rural areas as well as offering more competitive pricing in urban centres.

Chances it will happen: Musk faced legal action in 2018 from Tesla shareholders for a tweet claiming he had secured funding for the electric car company to go private (he hadn’t) so some scepticism is advised. However, the Tanzanian government’s Minister for Information, Communication & Information Technology, Honourable Nape Nnauye, joined in the Twitter chat to confirm the application had been made, but that a review found there were still some requirements that were outstanding.

es Salaam to Zanzibar

The story: There is 50 km of Indian Ocean between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar, but the idea of a bridge that connects the two has been floated since 2020 and plans seem to be gathering pace. In March Tanzania’s deputy

with starring roles in blockbusters such as ‘Thor’, ‘Pacific Rim’ and the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise. In recent years the international profile of the Tanzanian film industry has risen with local films getting released on the big screen and on Netflix and ‘Vuta N'kuvute’ becoming the country’s first film in more than 20 years to be nominated for the Oscars. The new studio should galvanise such progress in supporting the work of African film creatives.

minister of Works & Transport, Godfrey Kasekenya, let it be known that talks to confirm the hugely ambitious project were at an advanced stage with building set to begin that month. He said representatives of both the Zanzibar and Tanzania governments had met with the prospective investors of China Overseas Engineering Group Company (COVEC) who have shown interest in building the bridge. If it goes ahead, the bridge will be more than double the length of the current longest bridge in Africa, Egypt’s 6 October Bridge.

Why is it important? A bridge allowing road vehicle access between mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar Island will mean

The story: British actor Idris Elba, who has a net worth of US $40 million, plans to invest in a major film studio in Tanzania. The news was revealed by Zuhura Yunus, the Tanzanian government’s Director of Presidential Communications, at a press conference in February. She said the plans were discussed when the Golden Globewinning star met with President Samia Suluhu Hassan at this year’s World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. “Discussions on the project have just begun, and if successful, the project will help not only Tanzania but also Eastern and Central Africa,” she said.

Why is it important? Elba is a major player in the Hollywood film industry

Chances it will happen: Elba, who was born in the UK to a Sierra Leonean father and Ghanaian mother, has long signalled his interest in telling African stories from an African perspective with roles in films such as ‘Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom’ and ‘Beasts of No Nation’. During publicity for his 2023 action horror film ‘Beast’, shot entirely in South Africa, he told the world’s press: “I’m really keen on the development of Africa. I feel like that continent deserves some real tender care and love and thought. Young Africans view me as a leader or a beacon. And I feel like I could bring something. So, I’m keen to bring what I've learned in media and amplify it in Africa.”

Building a bridge from Dar

Idris Elba film investment

Denis Makarenko / Shutterstock.com

faster, safer, and more reliable means of transportation for people and goods. It is also expected to improve trade, tourism, and investment opportunities between the two regions.

Chances it will happen: It seems an almost impossible feat of engineering, but if the rumours are true and the contract has gone to a Chinese company then that is one of the only parts of the world where a 50km bridge might be considered a small job. China is home to the world’s five longest bridges with top spot claimed by the 164-km DanyangKunshan Grand Bridge.

A US$ 140 million project in Zanzibar is to bring utilityscale solar-powered energy to the islands for the first time

The story: Tanzanian billionaire Rostam Aziz’s company Taifa Energy and Mauritian-based firm General Capital Ltd (GCL) have partnered with the state-owned Zanzibar Electricity Corporation (Zeco) to develop a project that aims to contribute 180 megawatts of electricity to the island’s grid through solar power.

Why is it important? This could be the project that ends Zanzibar’s dependency on electricity from mainland Tanzania. Unguja and Pemba are connected to the national power grid through underwater submarine cables with the maximum capacity of 100MW just about reached at peak demand. The hope is a larger, more reliable power supply will boost economic growth on the islands with Aziz stated that

Tanzania joins the space race

The story: President Samia Suluhu Hassan has announced the country's plan to build and launch its own satellite into space. If successful, Tanzania will join the ranks of their East African neighbours Kenya and Uganda, which developed and deployed their own satellites in the past six months.

Why is it important? The development of a national satellite holds immense potential for sectors such as communication, agriculture, and disaster management. A satellite would boost connectivity in remote areas, bridge the digital divide and improve access to crucial services

such as education and healthcare. Additionally, satellites can help Tanzania’s large agricultural sector, assisting farmers to understand water and nutrient status, monitor crops and make informed decisions on irrigation, fertilization and pest control.

Chances of it happening: Details about the engineering team and hosting location remain undisclosed, but with government backing and the precedent that, as of 2022, more than 50 African satellites have been sent into space, it seems likely that Tanzania will embrace space technology.”

the project is expected to have a rapid impact on job creation and sustainable development in areas where there is a significant demand for reliable and affordable power supply.

Chances it will happen: Out of all the projects on this list, this one seems a nailed-on certainty. The TZS 30 billion agreement has been signed by the Zanzibar government with the permanent secretary in the Ministry of Energy & Minerals, Joseph Kilangi, expecting the project to be completed by next year. He said: “The project will be built in phases and will commence with the expedited construction of a 30 MW solar PV power plant at Bambi, Central District in South Unguja Region, that will be completed in 2024.”

WIN

WIN A NIGHT-FOR-TWO AT CHUINI BEACH LODGE

ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS

To be in with a chance of winning, email your answers to the three questions below along with a photograph of yourself holding Twiga 17 on your Air Tanzania flight to competition@landmarine.org by 10th September 2023. Bahati nejema!

1 Which city in China does Air Tanzania now fly to three times a week?

2 Which big cat is Gir National Park in India famous for protecting?

3 What is the name of the biggest island in the Union of Comoros?

TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Prizes dependent on availability One entry per person. Entrants must be 18 years or over. The decision of the organisers will be final. The competition is not open to employees and their relatives of Air Tanzania or Land & Marine Publications Ltd and Chuini Beach Lodge. The prize does not include flights to the destination. Images are for representation only.

Chuini Beach Lodge occupies an idyllic location on Unguja’s west coast. Despite being just 10 km north of Zanzibar City and its Stone Town, the four-star property is a tranquil hideaway with the spectacular Bumbubu beach on its doorstep and its sumptuous 12 rooms and one villa set amid lush gardens.

This dream destination also has three restaurants with one on its private jetty with ocean views and another set within the ruins of a former Sultan’s palace in the hotel grounds where guests dine surrounded by flame torches. How lucky then will be the winner of Twiga 18’s competition? They – along with a guest of their choice – will get to enjoy a one-night stay at Chuini Beach Lodge.

Last issue’s

WINNER

Congratulations to Michelle Njoroge who wins a B&B stay for two at Zanzibar Palace Hotel. Well done and thanks for flying Air Tanzania.

Want

a

HEALTHY LIFE?

Get moving and pack your plate with a variety of local food

H.E. Mariam Mwinyi, the First Lady of Zanzibar, has long been a champion of health with the Zanzibar Maisha Bora Foundation (ZMBF) she founded sharing advice on diet, fitness and hygiene for the island’s women and young people. Here, she presents some simple guidelines to a healthy life.

The burden of malnutrition is increasing at a considerable rate in Tanzania. The new generation seems to be converging on a diet high in saturated fats, sugar, refined foods, low in fibre and a sedentary lifestyle.

Malnutrition is linked to poor quality and quantity of food intake and diseases driven by the food system and other structural factors. The causes of malnutrition are multifaceted, and they operate in complex ways. Stunting, as well as micronutrient deficiencies such as iron, iodine, and vitamin A deficiencies, being overweight, and obesity are linked to Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and continue to be of public health concern across the world and particularly in developing countries like ours. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as physical activity play a vital role in preventing obesity and NCDs.

I know life has changed and people are overwhelmed with work.

In my life I encourage and promote healthy workouts such as walking, aerobics, sports, etc, as it has many health benefits. For a busy day, I encourage people to take breaks from sedentary time (extended periods sitting in front of screens) and shift to healthier lifestyles that support better nutrition. These are practices I make sure I follow in my own life.

Guidelines

I recently participated in the development of television cooking programmes on healthy diets. As First Lady of Zanzibar, wife, mother, and founder and Chair of the “Zanzibar Maisha Bora Foundation, I extend my appreciation to the Food and Agriculture Organization and the Ministry of Agriculture, through the EU-funded programme AGRICONNECT, which supported the action and orientation of the Food-Based Dietary Guidelines (FBDGs).

The simple guidelines provide advice on consuming a combination of foods from the six food groups that are the foundation of healthy eating. The six food groups include:

1. Cereals, starchy roots, tubers, and plantains

2. Pulses, nuts, and seeds

3. Fruits

4. Vegetables

5. Seafood and animal source foods

6. Healthy oils.

During cooking, my choice is based on a healthy dietary pattern using locally available foods in Zanzibar. Foods I favour include rice cooked with coconut milk, chukuchuku (mixed fish and mbatata or sweet potatoes), carrots, onions, fresh tomatoes; garlic, pigeon peas (mbaazi) cooked with coconut milk and kachumbari.

I like to make salads such as a fresh tomato ‘tungule’ with carrots

Dietary guidlines include choosing from a range of healthy foods

A bowl of fresh kachumbari

capsicum and onions, which I sprinkle with seaweed (mwani). Seaweed or sea vegetables are a form of algae that grows in the sea and are highly nutritious, containing a wide variety of antioxidants, vitamins such as A, D, E, C, and B, and minerals including calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium.

In addition to nutritional benefits, sprinkling seaweed on kachumbari/foods adds taste and improves texture and flavour. I choose mangoes (maembe shomari) and oranges from the fruit group. The TV Cooking programmes feature 12 other participants, among them artists, actors, and prominent political figures from different sectors (mainland and Zanzibar). They are expected to be aired on traditional and social media channels soon. Something not to be missed.

These guidelines contain tips on maintaining healthy eating and lifestyles using local traditional foods. Going through the document, I have noticed that the food guides provided empower the public to choose diversified diets in the right amounts and combinations that provide sufficient nutrients for one to achieve an optimal nutritional status.

Steer clear of sugar

The guideline advises on foods to limit due to their high calorie amounts and negative impacts on nutrition and health outcomes if consumed regularly and in large amounts, such as sugars, salt and saturated and trans fats (TFAs). In addition, it has recommendations for populations with special nutritional needs such as pregnant and breastfeeding women, under-fives

and school-aged children and the elderly. Furthermore, the guideline pertains to healthy practices, including food and home hygiene and water safety, avoiding alcohol consumption, and encouraging physical activity. So please limit unhealthy meals, excessive eating, and sitting (being physically inactive). Carrying excess weight will add stress to your life and increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, heart attack, stroke, and other health problems. In this context, the FBDGs present an appropriate and effective tool in the country’s efforts to cope with the triple burden of malnutrition.

The success of implementation and making healthy eating an easier choice for the public requires joint efforts from various governmental and non-governmental sectors, the media, community-based organisations (CBOs), and other concerned parties to ensure the necessary action is taken. Stakeholders need to heighten awareness not only among professionals but also among community-based workers who promote healthy eating and related behaviour is critical as well as in the general population.

The simple guidelines provide advice on consuming a combination of foods from the six food groups that are the foundation of healthy eating

Top: H.E Mariam Mwinyi, First Lady of Zanzibar. Above: Seaweed is a great source of antioxidants.

HOW TO MASTER THE JOB INTERVIEW whether you are the candidate or the company

Job interviews can be a nerve-wracking experience, but they are an important part of the recruitment process for employers and job seekers. Here, Joshua Naiman, partner of Tanzanian growth consulting firm Empower – which has over its 14-year history prepared more than 100,000 candidates across multiple industries to make an exceptional impression – shares advice to ensure a stellar interview experience no matter what side of the table you are at.

Interviewees

Congratulations! Your application is approved to proceed to the next stage – here’s how to strengthen your interviewing approach:

1 Exemplify a solid understanding of the industry and the market in which it operates.

A well-rounded candidate is informed about the tasks and responsibilities of

the role they have applied, possesses a strong grasp of industry trends and more importantly, can analyze market trends that have the potential to influence the relevance, performance, opportunities, and threats for the organisation they have applied to work for.

2 Emphasize results and impact within your role and towards the organisation’s vision.

Interviewers value candidates who deliver measurable results and make a tangible impact. Your responses must highlight quantifiable outcomes and achievements that contributed positively to either improving business processes, increasing revenue or minimising expenses to influence business growth.

to achieving organisational success. Share examples of leadership experiences (on a macro/micro level) where you engaged in cross-functional collaborations navigated conflicting perspectives, and effectively negotiated to influence diverse stakeholders around a common business goal while fostering strong relationships and a collaborative work culture.

4 Demonstrate your ability to effectively manage projects and drive business development. Companies value candidates who can effectively lead teams to develop innovative solutions and propose viable strategies. Your ability to plan, manage project timelines, delegate tasks, mitigate risks, and adapt to changing priorities while delivering projects on time and within budget will showcase your prowess to thrive in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.

5 Exhibit a #GrowthMindset

3

Highlight a consistent record of influence and collaboration. People management skills are critical

High-impact candidates possess an eagerness to seek out learning opportunities, embrace challenges, take on new responsibilities, and adapt to change. It is not enough to simply be bound by the bullet points of your job description; it is

(right) Empower TZ founder Miranda Naiman

about showcasing your appetite and potential for future leadership roles. We can’t wait to see you apply these techniques, draw the attention of your interviewers, and have robust conversations that will set you apart.

Employers

Congratulations! You have successfully set up an interview with a promising candidate, here’s how you will position yourself as an employer of choice:

1 Develop a people strategy with a structured approach to growth and development.

Where do you see this role three to five years down the line and what is the envisioned end goal for the successful candidate? We help and motivate companies to create a clearly defined people strategy that considers aspects such as performance management and recognition, learning, and development, employee engagement and well-being, and succession planning, all aimed at intentionally promoting a culture of accountability where employees are motivated to excel.

2

Define the role clearly aligning it to specific departmental and

organisational objectives. Clarity regarding the desired outcomes and success matrices of the role will align a candidate’s expectations of the position’s requirements and allow you to fairly assess a candidate’s potential impact both in the short and long term. More importantly, engaging relevant stakeholders in interviews such as department leads and cross-functional partners will allow you to make data-driven decisions.

3 Find a balance in assessing for a culture fit versus technical capability

It is critical to find individuals who genuinely embody your values so they can contribute to realising your vision and thrive in your work culture. An individual may be a technical superstar but their ability to resonate with your desired attitude, ethical framework, and client engagement approach may positively or adversely impact the energy and mindset you want for a successful team.

individual or group settings that have evaluated a candidate’s abilities in real or simulated work situations providing hiring managers valuable qualitative and quantitative insights about a candidate’s ability to seamlessly integrate into your existing team.

5 Intentionally foster a positive candidate interview experience. Empower has facilitated hiring experiences that ensure timely feedback, allow an appropriate number of interview stages, manage salary negotiations respectfully, and ensure a confidential process that showcases our client’s commitment to valuing people management and professionalism. A positive candidate experience has the power to enhance your employer brand and attract top talent.

So, with CVs reviewed and calendars booked, we wish you all the best in selecting an outstanding individual to join your team!

To learn more about how Empower can support your growth journey, visit empower.co.tz

Utilise multiple assessment methods. We design competency, behavioral and situational judgment tests for

4

Connect with us on social media to stay updated with our latest insights and success stories.

@empowerlimited on Instagram

@EmpowerLtd on Twitter

Empower TZ posts weekly online interviews with experts in their field with its Yellow Couch Chat episodes

A Novel Idea short story competition winner A hole lot of trouble

A Novel Idea is celebrating 30 years in business and as part of its celebrations the Dar es Salaam bookshop has organized a short story competition. The winner in the 13 to 17-year-old category was Mwanza schoolgirl Margaret Kennedy. The judges were impressed by Margaret’s funny and environmentally aware tale of a young girl, a mysterious hole and a grumpy tortoise. Here Twiga reprints Margaret’s story for Air Tanzania passengers young and old with the kind permission of A Novel Idea.

Ahh!

Fi!Na!Ly! Food. Mungu wangu! These people! Why they diggin’ here? With their big machines.

This kubwa sana hole. Holy moly! (If you ‘ll pardon the pun).

People diggin’ stupid, shiny rocks. In my day there were none of these, with no sign of intelligence, people. And it was peaceful in my shell.

Oh! It’s starting to rain. Better get inside.

where she’d be right now. She pondered and pondered and pondered. ‘Aha, I think I have the perfect idea,’ wondered Joanna.

Joanna marched with her head held high. Her plan was to investigate why they were digging, always digging. She had everything she needed; her magnifying glass, her hat and her most dangerous weapon, her... yoyo. Skipping along the pathway she thought that nothing could stop her.

The sky was blue like the ocean, but there was no water here. The daytime is the blanket which covers the stars. Rolling hills seem to go on forever as if they are infinite without an end. They are smooth like the morning breeze. And the untamable Mount Meru. As the soft clouds pass by its peak you rarely ever glimpse its top, but once you’ve seen it, it takes your breath away. Sometimes you even see a sprinkle of snow or ice on the summit.

Underneath a tall acacia tree sat Joanna. ‘Why does dad have to do this?’ thought Joanna. She longed to help her father, for he was the one who paid the bills, without him she wouldn’t know

Jumping with joy across the plains. She stopped in her path. Her eyes moving rapidly, side to side. A sound rang in her ear, it seemed to be only a short distance away. She turned towards the sound. Joanna’s eyes widened. Bees. Knowing that the bees would hurt anyone if they made a loud sound. She wanted to flee. There was a cry in the distance. Any louder and the bees would come after that child.

She recognised the voice.

Joanna panicked. In that moment she ran towards that crying child. As she approached the child she noticed a now angry swarm of bees, so she ran

as fast as she could. She knew that if she stopped, he wouldn’t make it.

Ohhh. I’m getting there. Ohhh yeah, I’ll be there in a jiffy. In no time. Can’t stop me. Not even this big hole. By golly I can smell it from here.

Woo. I’m as fast as I was in my fifties when I was young and beautiful. Or even faster!

“Farhan what are you doing here?”

“But…”

“No time for chit-chat, we have to go”, said Joanna as she grasped him in her arms as if her life depended on it and ran off rapidly back down the path. Unfortunately, as she ran, she tripped over a large tortoise walking slowly across her path. Luckily, she didn’t fall over and she kept on running until they reached home sweet home.

When they arrived home Joanna slammed the door shut and let her brother wander off. Then she immediately ran panicking towards her little brother and hugged him as if she wouldn’t ever let him go. Coming to her senses, she let go of him and checked if he was harmed. A feeling of relief came over her as she realised he wasn’t hurt at all.

All of a sudden, her mum and dad’s room door was flung open. Her dad came in with a confused look across his face. “What happened?”, said Joanna’s dad seriously.

“Well…” began her brother.

“First we’ll hear Joanna’s story.”

“So, I was walking around, when I heard bees. Then I heard a cry in the distance and I knew it was Farhan. I knew if he was any louder the bees would get to him so I ran and picked him up, then I ran home with him. And that’s what happened.” explained Joanna, almost shouting by the end of her story.

“Now what were you doing there, Farhan?” asked Joanna’s Dad.

“Well, I went to see you at your workplace because when I woke up from my very good sleep, which I really enjoyed, you weren’t there, so I went to see you. When I was walking, I saw this mdudu pushing this poo, or was it mud, never mind. It was sooooo cool, but when I looked away and then looked back it was gone and I was so sad, so I cried and then Joanna picked me up and took me home.

Then I see that you are here, so yay!”

“But Farhan it’s Saturday, I don’t work on Saturday.”

“Oh. Okay.”

“Just don’t scare me like that ever again.”

“Okay Dad. I’m going to play with my cars. Vroom, Vroom.”

“Hey Joanna, thank you for doing that or he would’ve gotten really hurt.” said her father. “You’re a good sister. What should I get you at shop?”

“Some mango juice please?” asked Joanna.

‘Time to investigate,’ thought Joanna excited.

Ahhhhh! Bloody people! Nearly making me land on my back. Inconsiderate.

I thought I heard bees. Ehhh, maybe not.

“I’m going outside Dad, see you later.”

“Be careful!”

Joanna went to investigate knowing nothing would get in her way. While she walked, she looked to her left and saw Mount Meru and its peak. Then she looked right to Kisongo and knew that no matter how dusty or muddy it is, Kisongo will aways be her home.

As she approached her father’s workplace, she noticed an old giant tortoise walking by. It looked friendly, so she crouched down and said, “Hello, where did you come from?”

She droned on, talking to the tortoise, but the tortoise ignored her and kept on walking, going on with its busy life.

What is she blabbing on about?

What’s the point of me staying listening to gibberish. I’ve got better things to do than listening to this young human. By golly I’ve got places to be.

Goodbye blabber mouth human, I’m going at the speed of light. Look at me go, it took me only five minutes to pass that tree. See you never!

When Joanna finished talking to the tortoise she walked towards the huge hole. The large hole was deep but the sides weren’t steep. As she stepped in, she noticed two large piles of soil.

Throughout the afternoon Joanna scoured most of the hole with her magnifying glass trying to find any clue to why her dad kept on digging five days a week. By then she was tired so she wanted to

go home, but something glistened at the corner of her eye. It was at the bottom of the hole. She climbed down into it, full of excitement.

When she reached the bottom of the hole, she brushed off the dirt around the glimmer and found shiny metal.

‘What is that? I could be anything. A really big pot or … a big sheet of metal. It’s probably nothing bad. What could it be? A giant spoon. No. A metal door. No. A SPACESHIP! Yes, that’s probably what it is. No. Yes. No, no, no. Yes, yes, yes. No, no why would a spaceship be here?’ wondered Joanna confused.

Joanna didn’t know what the shiny metal was so she brushed off some more dirt and saw some more of the shiny metal. As she brushed off a little more dirt, she saw something bright red, covered in a lot of dirt. She brushed off some more dirt. And more. And more.

It was shiny, big and red.

A big. Red. BUTTON.

It was something she had never seen in real life, only on television. She was so tempted to press it. However, she did not. Instead, she ran home in amazement to tell her dad. Running so fast she thought she wouldn’t be able to stop.

Finally, when she reached home, she was ready to pop. So once she saw her dad, she blurted out, “Hey Dad I went to investigate why you always dig because it really bothered me why you always had to dig and I still haven’t found why

all afternoon but when it was getting close to the evening I was getting tired but when I was just about to leave I saw this shiny thing at the bottom of the hole so I went down to see it and it was a shiny piece of metal in the ground and then I wiped off more and more dirt and it was then when I saw it the BIG RED BUTTON!” She was out of breath, having not paused for her whole tale.

“Stop, stop, try to speak slowly,” pleaded Joanna’s Dad.

“Okay, okay.”

“Now speak slowly and clearly. Take a breath.”

“So, I went to investigate why you always dig.”

“Mhm.”

“I went to find clues at you work place, the big hole. I was looking for clues throughout the whole afternoon. When it came to the evening, I was tired so I thought it was best to go home when I saw something shiny at the bottom of the hole. I went to see what it was, it was metal in the ground and then I brushed off some dirt and more and more. Until I saw a big red button.”

“Okay I understand now, you were so unclear at first,” said Joanna’s Dad in relief.

“Well, I was so excited to tell someone I just blurted it out.”

“You know you shocked me when you came in speaking so quickly.”

“But what about the button? Do you know what it does?”

beautiful. I love lettuce.

Well open up. Aaahhhhh.

OH! OH DEAR! NOT NOW!

AHHH! I’M LOSIN’ MY FOOT’N. I’M GONNA FALL IN THE HOLE.

WHY DID I COME SO CLOSE TO THE HOOOOOOOOLE!

OOF! AHH! WHY! OOF! AHH! WHYYYY!

Oh, wait I’m alive I’m just on my back and a bit bruised.

AAAAAHHHHHHHHHH!

BOOOOOOOOM! came the thunderous noise from outside Joanna’s house.

“What was that?” said Joanna confused. “Sounded like a loud explosion,” said her dad.

THE END

The other age-group winners in the competition were: 8 to 10, Kaii Valente; 14 to 17 Khushi Devani and 18+ Yulita B Mulanduzi.

A Novel Idea – which was included in the recently published book ‘150 Bookstores You Need to Visit Before You Die’ – has branches in Dar es Salaam at the Slipway shopping complex and in Arusha at the TFA Centre. You can also order its books online at anovelidea.co.tz with deliveries available to a range of pick-up locations across the country. Call +255-222601-088 or email info@anovelidea.co.tz

About the author

Margaret Kennedy is a 13-year-old pupil at the International School of Mwanza, where her favourite subject is science. The keen reader also enjoys art, particularly painting and drawing.

Slow-cooked Beef Bunny Chow

CHOW DOWN ON THE ‘AFRICAN SANDWICH’

Belinda Mkony is in her comfort food zone with a South African classic, Bunny Chow. Here Twiga’s cookery columnist, who also goes by the name of ‘the Rebel Chef’, shares her recipe and some of the history behind the dish.

TYou will not find another ‘sandwich’ like the Bunny Chow. This traditional South African meal has a history of oppression, struggle and survival woven into it.

The dish – a hollowed-out loaf of white bread stuffed with slow-cooked delicious curry chow – originated in the port city of Durban and has a strong Indian influence. It gained popularity in the 1940s as a staple of Indian laborers working in the sugar cane fields of what is now KwaZulu-Natal. It was also a time that marked the beginning of nearly 50 years of ‘apartheid’ in South Africa. The cuisine was mostly sold by the Banias Indian community and it is thought that the Bunny Chow name came from the word ‘chow’, meaning ‘food’, in the local dialect.

Bunny Chow is a distinctive, portable, and widely consumed South African street snack that demonstrates the eclectic mix of influences in South African cuisine. It is a heavily spiced dish that would delight any spice enthusiast – my sort of people!

I love cosy meals, and this has to be one of the best. With Tanzania’s coolest months upon us, it is tempting to make this dish time and time again. It’s easy to create – in essence it is a bread bowl of warm spices that will give you a warm hug. You can switch it up with different proteins and vegetables as cooking should never be boring. This is the ultimate comfort food, and you will not be able to stop eating it.

It's certainly a family favourite in my house. I make a lot and it is eaten for lunch, supper, and breakfast until it's all gone. Don’t stand on ceremony – tear off a chunk of bread and use it to mop up the delicious curry. This recipe slaps!

Ingredients

For the curry powder

6 ¼ teaspoon Cayenne pepper powder

6 1 teaspoon ground coriander

6 ¼ teaspoon ground cumin

6 1 pinch of fennel seeds

6 1 pinch ground fenugreek

6 ¼ teaspoon black pepper

6 ½ teaspoon ground turmeric

6 ½ teaspoon ground ginger

6 1 teaspoon garlic powder

6 ¼ teaspoon chili powder

For the bunny chow

6 3 tablespoons vegetable oil

6 1.5 kg chuck or stewing beef (cubed)

6 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

6 ½ teaspoon fennel seeds

6 1 small stick of cinnamon

6 2 pods of green cardamom

6 1-star anise

6 3 bay leaves

6 1 onion, chopped

6 2 tablespoons mild curry powder

6 2 tomatoes, peeled, seeded, and chopped or blended

6 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh ginger

6 1 teaspoon garam masala

6 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped

6 12 curry leaves

6 3 medium potatoes, cut into 1.5 cm cubes

6 Salt

6 3 tablespoons finely chopped cilantro (coriander) leaves

6 2 tablespoons lime juice, freshly squeezed

6 2 cups water

6 1 loaf of crispy white bread, not sliced, each cut in the top round in the middle and emptied of the crumbs.

Cooking with Belinda Mkony

6 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro, for serving

Tomato and onion Salad

6 2 ripe tomatoes, deseeded

6 ½ small red onion, finely diced

6 3 tbsp finely chopped fresh cilantro

6 A pinch of salt

6 ½ tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil

6 1 teaspoon of oregano.

Carrot and Cucumber salad

6 1 medium cucumber, halved lengthwise and cut into 1/4-inch slices

6 1 medium carrot, cut into matchstick-size pieces

6 2 tablespoons snipped fresh cilantro

6 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

6 ¼ teaspoon salt

6 ⅛ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Curry powder: Combine all the ingredients and grind them in a spice grinder until they are reduced to a fine powder. Set aside.

Bunny chow: Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat and brown the whole spices and bay leaf until the spices sizzle and release their aromas.

Add the onion and sauté for five to seven minutes or until translucent.

Stir in the reserved curry powder and garam masala and sauté for one minute over medium heat, then add the tomatoes and stir to combine.

Cover and cook over medium heat for ten minutes, stirring very frequently.

Add the meat, fresh ginger, garlic and curry leaves and 300 ml of water.

Bring to a boil then reduce the heat and simmer over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally for 50 minutes or until the meat is tender.

Add the potatoes, salt to taste then add the remaining up to 200 ml of water if necessary. Mix well.

Continue to simmer until the meat and

potatoes are cooked through, about 15 to 20 minutes.

Stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice. To serve, pour the bunny chow into the hollowed bread and garnish with chopped cilantro.

Tomato and onion salad: In a large bowl, whisk together vinegar, cilantro, oil, salt, oregano, and black pepper. Stir in the tomato and red onion. Toss to coat. This can be added on top of the bunny chow to add a big to zing to the meal.

Carrot and cucumber salad: In a large bowl, whisk together vinegar, cilantro, oil, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the carrot and cucumber. Toss to coat. Divide salad among serving plates, it is mostly a side salad.

FOLLOW BELINDA

To keep up with her latest recipes and events, visit Fork.Ur.Munchies on Instagram

All images courtesy of Belinda Mkony / Cooking with Belinda Mkony

LOOKING FOR LIONS IN GIR FOREST NATIONAL PARK

GIR Forest National Park is India’s largest wildlife sanctuary and was set up to protect the country’s last remaining population of Asiatic lions. Murli Menon gets up close to the park’s diverse wildlife and also spends time with the African-origin, Swahilispeaking human settlers that call the remote forested region home.

In December 2022, I undertook a journey to the only home of the Asiatic lion in India, the Gir National Park. The protected forested park is located where it stretches across 2,400 square km. The terrain is hilly and covered with thick, dry deciduous forests, which are home to several species of birds and animals.

Perhaps the most surprising fact about Gir is that it contains a human settlement – the village of Shirwan –which is populated by African tribes who were brought to India by the Nawab of Junagadh four hundred years ago.

These tribes are known as Siddi Badshah by the locals. They can trace their ancestry to Kenya and to

this day speak a version of Swahili. Getting to Sirdan is a 12km trek from Sasan Gir, the base camp for visitors entering the park.

We follow a dirt road that winds its way between thick forests. It is a risky journey. Panthers, leopards, and cheetahs abound in the forests and could attack wayfarers. Monkeys, snakes, and wild boars are also commonly seen and represent mild danger. Another animal that could cross your path is the Asiatic lion, the animal that the park was set up to protect and whose fragile population numbers around 400.

Slaves

The Siddi have lived in Sirdan since around 1600 when they were brought to India as slaves by the Nawab of Junagadh to convert the thick forests at that time into tillable land. Around 3,000 Siddi continue to live in the forest, adhering to a simple way of life that has changed little since the days of their ancestors. They still follow ancient traditions and maintain ethnic purity with almost 100 percent of the Siddi marrying among themselves.

The Siddi respect the law of the forest and do not indulge in hunting though they live adjacent to several hundred spotted deer. Instead, the hunter-gatherers live off the land, picking the plentiful supplies of wild fruits and berries. Fresh water is also readily available as the Hiran River flows through Gir. In addition to this, there are several watering holes across the forest.

Houses

The Government of Gujarat has offered the Siddi modern houses outside the park, but so far none of the 100 families in Shirwan have accepted. Life in the forest for them includes plenty of dance and music with ancient tribal songs performed in Swahili accompanied by ancestral drums. The Siddi

tribal trance dance is known as ‘dhamal’ (or the boisterous dance) in Gujarati. The Siddi have also preserved their ancestral costumes, and every family has preserved one set of their ancestral tribal costumes which they wear during ceremonial occasions, marriages, or other festivities.

I got to witness a Siddi tribal dance with the village’s men, women, and children moving together in synchronicity. It’s a true community gathering. One of the important aspects of Siddi culture is their existence in the present moment. They think only about the here and now. They do not dwell on the past or contemplate the future. They are always aware of the present. If they get a meal they are happy, but they continue

to remain cheerful, even if forced to go hungry. During monsoon season, most of the Siddi tribal houses are swept away by the rains, yet villagers simply rebuild their huts without complaint and continue their lives. Free from mental stress or worries. The village was filled with smiling children, laughter, music, boisterous chatter, and dancing.

There is a lot to be learned from the Siddi. We could all benefit from

The Siddi respect the law of the forest and do not indulge in hunting though they live adjacent to several hundred spotted deer

Siddi women and children at Shirwan village inside the Park

getting into the habit of shutting out the past, forgetting about the future, and continuing to exist in the present. In the words of this ancient Swahili Siddi proverb: “The past no longer is, The future has not yet come; Looking deeply at life, As it is; In the very here and now, The Siddi lives in stability and freedom”

Flying to GIR from Mumbai

There are regular flights from Mumbai International Airport to Rajkot Airport. The journey time is approximately one hour. From Rajkot to Gir National Park is a threehour drive.

Where to stay?

Sinh Sadan, the official guest house of the forest department needs to be booked in advance for visitors and costs 10 US$/- per night. The accommodation is comfortable, with hot water and the food is basic.

Where to eat?

There are plenty of small restaurants serving North Indian and Gujarati cuisine in Sasan. Vegans can get fresh fruits including mangoes, papayas, pineapples, and berries at the Siddi settlements.

MURLI MENON

Murli Menon, is a travel writer, stress management consultant and author based at Ahmedabad, India. He is the author of “ZeNLP-Learning through stories” published by The Written Word Publications, “ZeNLP-the power to succeed” published by Sage publications and “ZeNLP-the power to relax” by New Dawn Press. He can be reached at zenlp@rediffmail.com

The cocktails and condiments of DAR’S POP-UP PIONEER

Perhaps it is not surprising that someone whose talents include cocktail flipping and fire juggling knows how to keep multiple projects in the air, but Mikey Wilkins has with travelling cocktail bar Liquid Gold, Twisted Classic cordials and cool condiment That’s Ma Jam transformed the Tanzanian hospitality scene over the past decade. Mark Edwards meets the pop-up pioneer.

Mixologists often talk about the golden ratio of sweet and sour flavours that go to make the perfect cocktail.

Michael ‘Mikey’ Wilkins, the effervescent CEO of Tanzania-based pop-up cocktail bar company Liquid Gold, knows this delicate balance well and is also aware that the professional journey for entrepreneurs like him involves a similar acceptance of pain and pleasure.

Projects such as Liquid Gold, Bantu Bambu, Twisted Classics and That’s Ma Jam are doing well and showcase the creative talent and natural resources of UK-born Mikey’s adopted home. “I live and will continue to live my life like Tanzania is my home,” he says.

When things do not work out – such as when the economic hardships of the global pandemic forced him to close his Dar es Salaam bar and restaurant Drum Café in 2020 – Mikey only has to look around to remind himself of his good fortune. “If you’re having a bad day here, you’re having a bad day in paradise,” he says.

Mikey was 22 when he arrived in Tanzania in 2009 to visit his sister who was involved in the setting up of performing arts centre Tanzanian House of Talent in Dar es Salaam. Wanting to stick around, he found that the bartending work he had been doing in the UK since his late teens was enough to secure himself the position of bar manager at Triniti Bar and Restaurant in Oyster Bay.

Apart from a two-year break in 2011 managing a bar in Shanghai – a time in which he says he “got loads better at what I did” – he has since set about proving himself an endlessly inventive and supportive part of the Tanzanian hospitality scene.

Tanzania as teacher

“I’ve grown here; made massive mistakes, had moments of triumph, loved across cultures, [and experienced] self-discovery and metaphorical cultural slaps to the face. Always deserved.

“Tanzania has shown me more hard truths than home ever would and I'm still here and I’m still learning. Living in Tanzania fundamentally

makes you be a better person. If it hasn’t then you’re not living here, you’re just passing through.”

Much has changed on the Tanzanian cocktail scene in that time. In fact, in 2009, there was no scene. “There was gin and tonics and there was warm beer,” says Mikey. Liquid Gold was launched in 2013 to fill that gap and spread positivity into an industry which is rarely someone’s career of choice.

Meeting a need

“My company started because of a need; a need for higher levels of service and hospitality, a need for products, a need for education,” Mikey says.

“Liquid Gold has trained and inspired thousands of young people in the hospitality industry. It was and is a negatively stigmatised space – the Bartender Commodity Complex I call it. We’ve done talks on it and career opportunities and paths for young bartenders. We’ve opened school programmes, written bar operations manuals for fivestar hotels and lodges and taught

Mikey's latest project is interactive range of fruit jams, That's Ma Jam

underprivileged youths how to open their own juice bars. What we’ve done in a decade is not easy. Thanks to those that believed to achieve; you are all awesome and I am part of a better industry because of you!”

Liquid Gold’s pop-up events with its identifiable Volkswagen camper van converted into a self-contained cocktail bar has had residencies at Dar venues such as Slow Leopard, Coral Beach, Kind Earth and even Rhapsody’s, which involved the Kombi being winched up to the fourth-floor bar and restaurant. Each night showcases the company’s progress with some of the world’s largest drinks brands behind the bar and a host of young bartenders who have come through the training as master mixologists.

Among their skill set is some eye-catching flair bartending tricks such as drink flipping, balancing and pouring. These were passed on by Mikey, whose dexterity extends to

fire juggling, a fearless feat he often shows off to warm-up – as it were –guests at Liquid Gold events. Such crowd-gathering stunts, his ability to make, as he puts it, “the best cocktails in East Africa” and his consummate ease as a host make Mikey the life and soul of every pop-up party. Always cutting a dapper figure in his signature fedora and waistcoat and with a manner that manages to be both decorous and fun-loving,he makes every guest feel welcome.

“Being the difference between

service and hospitality is a pleasure that I and my team take seriously,” he says. “We don’t have customers we have guests. You are in the theatre of my life, and I want you to exit feeling better than when you arrived.”

Mikey’s self-starter skills are deeply ingrained. He can trace his entrepreneurial beginnings to selling sweets to fellow pupils at primary school and he made sure he had spending money as a teenager with jobs washing dishes and waiting tables. He even taught himself to ski and beacme an instructor at the local dry slope.

Such adaptability has been key in coming up with some innovative plan Bs when faced with business challenges. When the Covid lockdown made Drum Café unsustainable he started selling cocktail kits that were sent to client’s houses ahead of a Friday online cocktail show hosted by Mikey. “We called it ‘With You in Spirit’. It was pretty cool got loads of online attention and we achieved some crazy things. It kept us alive.”

More innovative thinking has gone into Mikey’s latest project, That’s Ma Jam. He recounts how the idea came to him after an overpriced and underwhelming purchase on holiday in Europe.

“The back story is in short – boy goes abroad to Europe, boy buys a pot of fruit jam, boy is alarmed by price vs value of said jam, boy gets a refund.

“Boy dreams of a jam that would play music and has fun flavours. A jam from which you can make drinks and cook with.

A jam that doesn’t has preservatives or chemicals or even colouring, a jam that is proudly Tanzanian that you can safely feed to your kids in the morning and still be listening to the website when you go to bed. A jam truly worth that amount of money. Boy gets told it won’t work… boy makes jam anyway.”

Buy the jam at Dar outlets The Butchers Shop, Make It Matter, The Garden Market, Agave, Tz Inalipa, Shrijees Supermarket and Duka

More innovative thinking has gone into Mikey’s latest project, That’s Ma Jam. He recounts how the idea came to him after an overpriced and underwhelming purchase on holiday in Europe

The perfect host: Mikey and his team at Liquid Gold events

Direct and you’ll not only enjoy the taste of real fruit harvested from Tanzanian smallholder farms, but you’ll also get a link to stream exclusively recorded music from one of a trio of local artists – Chi Temu, DJ Nasty Nate and DJ Rebel Monk – who have collaborated on the project.

Jamming with musicians

Mikey admits getting the product off the ground “has been the new making of and the end of me” and a true team effort, namechecking colleagues Grace and Queen. “It's a super rewarding product that could never have been made without the vision, trust and fearlessness of three of my most musically talented friends,” he says.

Collaboration is key to Mikey’s work and he praises the wealth of creative talent in Tanzania that always seeks to share their expertise. That’s certainly the case with the That’s Ma Jam trio. “Just look at who Chi is supporting through [regular live music, poetry and comedy night] Chi and Friends. She is literally building, curating and developing personality-driven brands for Tanzanian musicians. Nasty helps put

the youngsters on the DJ map when spots need filling or new talent rises you see collaborations and support throughout the industry.”

He also namechecks DJ Joozey, who recently played a record-breaking set at the summit of Mt Kilimanjaro. “I have to tip my hat to DJ Joozey. When the man who said he would be the first to DJ on the summit of Kili people said he was mad. Guess what? He’s done it. He’s another inspiration.”

Mikey is very much at home in Dar society. When he’s not working, he plays in a local hockey league – perhaps it’s no surprise that the perfectionist is the league’s top scorer – and been involved in setting up a local pool tournament at Q2 bar. Still, thoughts on his next professional move are never far away.

He is excited to launch That’s Ma Jam in Kenya very soon, tells me he has “an awesome idea for peanut butter” and has a concept for a new bar, but has not yet found a suitably priced venue.

All the while the entrepreneur is continuing to “live like he’s home” in Tanzania.

That’s Ma Jam trio

Every tin of That’s Ma Jam contains a link to exclusive music content by one of three local artists.

Chi Temu

The Tanzanian singer-songwriter is well known in Dar for devising and performing at regular poetry, comedy and music event Chi and Friends. Mikey says: “We have curated loads of events together, including Jam Fest! She’s a ferocious vixen diva with music in her soul.”

nasty nate

A professional house music and Amapiano DJ with close to a decade’s experience on the decks. Mikey says: “He supported [Liquid Gold regular event] Retox and is a DJ who can play a 12-hour live set. Check out his Kumi na Mbili perforºmance”

DJ Rebel Monk

Mikey says: “DJ Rebel Monk was the original DJ for the online show With You In Spirit. What a true talent this man has.”

The Liquid Gold combi van cocktail bar

Embrace modern technology for RAINWATER HARVESTING

Kenya is experiencing some of its worst droughts in close to half a century, but Simon Thomas, the country director of Megapipes Solutions, believes technological advancements in harvesting rainwater can protect lives and livelihoods.

The short rains have given us a reprieve from months of drought, one of the worst in over 40 years, but freedom is not yet here. The time is ripe for putting words into action on mitigating the adverse effects of climate change. One way we can do this is by beginning to harvest rainwater, especially in our urban areas. The timing could not be better because millions of litres of water will be wasted in the form of surface runoff that will end up in our rivers and in the process city dwellers will miss out on an opportunity to harvest this scarce resource.

It is important to understand that harvested rainwater has uses

that differ from treated water meant for drinking. This is because rainwater, especially when it is collected from rooftops, contains contaminants which makes it unsuitable for drinking unless it is treated. However, water must be considered as a precious resource and re-purposed effectively, for example this harvested rainwater is suitable for other domestic uses including flushing toilets and watering landscapes.

Uses of rainwater

Rainwater is also soft and therefore not subject to problems associated with limescale, making it particularly suitable for laundry use. By

harvesting rainwater and using it for flushing toilets, doing laundry, and watering landscapes we can relieve pressure from water supplied by water companies and ensure that the latter is used for drinking and other domestic activities. We need to adopt a mindset of saving drinkable water and consider the careful use of water as a resource for its various purposes.

Immense savings

Furthermore, reduced pressure on water supplied by companies would in turn slowdown the proliferation of boreholes in most urban areas. The savings from rainwater harvesting would be immense.

But to effectively harvest rainwater we must now start applying suitable and innovative technology for the collection and storing of this resource. First, our urban roofs –whether atop industrial, residential, commercial, retail or educational buildings – must be transformed into

Weholite HDPE tanks can be designed and manufactured to collect massive amounts of water and customised to fit within the confines of a specific site

Watyer tanks can be fitted under roads to store rainwater

water-catchment areas. Here we can borrow a leaf from the energy sector where we have seen many institutions install solar panels on their rooftops.

Once it rains, water from these rooftops must then be stored somewhere, and this is where modern technology such as Weholite HDPE is ideal for secure storage due to its many advantages. Weholite HDPE tanks can be designed and manufactured to collect massive amounts of water and customised to fit within the confines of a specific site.

For example, at our Megapipes Solutions factory plant in Kenya, we have successfully installed a 180,000-litre tank, under our factory road, a 48m of DN2200 SN2 Weholite tank, with filtration and pump system which takes water from our factory roof to use for toilet flushing, irrigation of our gardens and vehicle washing.

Better solution

This is not a short-term fix, but the tanks offer a sustainable lifespan and when buried, they offer a service life of over 100 years giving developers much needed long-term investments. Additionally, the lightweight nature of Weholite makes it easy and quick to install in heavily built-up

areas. What makes the tanks an even better solution for developers, is that the installation offers minimal disruptions to communities and livelihoods.

The good news is that the Government of Kenya has already shown commitment towards this rainwater harvesting including the proposed regulations that provide that all buildings used for residential, institutional facilities, offices,

manufacturing, or commercial establishments must have roofs that are adequately guttered for catching rainwater or may have a ground catchment for the purposes of harvesting rainwater.

The extremes of climate change means that we will likely see oscillating seasons of flooding and droughts. It is imperative that we act now and embrace modern technology to harvest rainwater.

Megapipes Solutions, as sister company of Plasco in Tanzania, provides sustainable stormwater, sanitation and drinking water storage solutions throughout East Africa. It is focussed on the positive long-term impact to the population and the local economy that delivering such products will bring.

Excavating space for the water tank

The Megapipes Solutions factory in Kenya

PURE ISLAND WATER

The volcanic landscape of Comoros filters its underground water reserves with health-giving minerals and protects it from pollution. Now a local company has taken that natural purification process a step further in producing new brand of bottled water Salama.

Water analysis

The composition of Salama (measuredin mg/per litre)

6 90 bicarbonate

6 50 total dissolved solids

6 37 calcium

6 0 sodium

Salama water begins its journey as rainwater that falls onto the volcanic landscape of Comoros. Slowly over the years it is naturally filtered through the layers of rock – a process that enriches it with minerals and protects it form pollution.

Nature provides the water with its unique mineral composition and its crisp, fresh taste, but now Comoros-based company is enhancing the purification process by establishing a filtering plant on Grande Comore – the archipelago's largest island – and producing the country's first bottled water, Salama. Named after the Arabic word for ‘peace’, it is sold in recyclable plastic bottles and available at outlets across the island.

Twice filtered

Abbas Devjani, the owner and co-founder of the Devjani Group, says of Salama's “twice-filtered”

quality: “It is purified deep through the volcanic rock at its source and then it comes to or factory and is purified again. We re-purify and we all add minerals to it.

The water is available in 500ml and 1.5l bottles as well as a 20l container to fit water coolers. In keeping with the company's com mitment to environmental sustain ability and to reduce the volume of plastic waste, all packaging is made with 100% recyclable plastic.”

Longer term Devjani hopes to make Salama available on the East African mainland, but he says the project will remain a Comorian operation, supporting the coun try’s natural resources bringing much-needed benefits to the local economy.

He says: “It will promote the conservation of the fragile ecosys tems around the Comoros Islands, as well as increase demand for jobs and economic opportunities in the region.”

ROSES on the rise in East Africa

Tanzania is gaining an increasing share of the multi-billion dollar global cut flower market with its mountainous regions providing ideal growing conditions for roses in particular.

The global market for cut flowers is estimated to reach US$ 50.1 billion by 2030. The Netherlands has long been the world’s top exporter and currently controls a market share of just over 50 per cent, but East African countries are becoming increasingly important as growers.

Kenya supplies one third of all roses sold in the EU, according to international flower trade association Union Fleurs, with cut flowers now the country’s second largest export after tea. Tanzania-grown roses are also in high demand with the country’s mountainous regions ideal for cultivating the fragrant flower.

Ideal conditions

The reason for this, according to David Michael Smalling, an American who has lived in Tanzania for almost 50 years and owns farmland in the Njombe region, is an ideal intersection of “altitude and latitude”. Tanzanian growing centres such as the Kipingere Range where Smalling’s land lies and the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru in Arusha are areas of high altitude close to the equator that experience cool nights yet long hours of sunshine during the day – climactic

conditions most flowers thrive in.

The all-year-round natural light means Tanzania is not limited by the seasonal production schedule of European growers and can trade non-stop. Another significant impact is that roses grown at high altitude have a much longer growing cycle than those cultivated at sea level, up to 15 weeks as opposed to eight – ideal for long-stemmed varieties with large heads.

Smalling, whose more than 100 acres of land is at around 2,000 metres above sea level, remembers a time when three acres were given over to greenhouses growing roses whose long stems were very sought after on the international markets.

“The climactic conditions we have here were perfect for growing very long stems,” he says. “The cold nights allowed a longer growing period. At that time everyone wanted roses with long stems and they were highly desirable at the European markets.”

Njombe blooms

Smalling estimates that the rose farms operated on his land for around a decade from 2002 to 2012, producing blooms such as Texas red rose from seedlings imported from Israel. However,

he recalls that despite the quality of the flowers and the overseas demand for them, the business encountered obstacles.

Getting the rose stems to the flower markets of the Netherlands, such as the cavernous Aalsmeer Flower Auction just outside Amsterdam, meant a rapid transfer over 7,000 km from farm to market within 24 to 48 hours for the delicate cargo. Cut flowers have to be transported quickly using a “cold-chain” – a series of refrigerated facilities on farms, lorries, aircraft and ships –which put the flowers into a dormant state so they stay fresh. Time is of the essence: every extra day spent travelling means the flowers lose 15 per cent of their value.

Getting the flowers from one continent to another without them being crushed or wilting was tricky enough, but, Smalling says the

The climactic conditions we have here were perfect for growing very long stems,” he says. “The cold nights allowed a longer growing period…

(Top) Mount Meru, Arusha. (Above) Aalsmeer Flower Auction Jordan Tan / Shutterstock.com

Red roses are universally symbolic of true love

ambitions of the business were further pruned by the Netherlands having rules in place that ensured all Dutch flowers were sold first at the markets.

“The wait for the local flowers to be sold first meant the Tanzanian roses started to droop,” he says. “It was difficult for the companies involved and ultimately they gave up.”

The growing of roses at the Njombe farm stopped around a decade ago. Smalling looks back on this time with some nostalgia and he and his Tanzanian wife, Mariam, who co-owns the land and used to distribute and sell the roses to outlets across Tanzania, are hopeful the farms will return to the region.

Bright future

Elsewhere in the country, the story is brighter with farms in the Kilimanjaro region shipping many tens of millions of roses to worldwide markets. Many of these farms are certified by the FairTrade Foundation with workers collectively deciding how to spend the profits – either directly to them and their families or to community services such as education and housing.

The Northern Tanzania farms benefit from their proximity to three international airports all served by Air Tanzania –Kilimanjaro, Arusha and Nairobi – to facilitate delivery. The Njombe Region is more isolated, but with Air Tanzania now including closest airport Mbeya among its route network and adding a dedicated freight aircraft to its fleet connections are improving.

It is worth noting that the supply chain does not have to be international. There is a healthy domestic market for roses – with the red variety universally symbolic of true love and hugely popular for weddings and other events in Tanzania.

There are many opportunities for the rose-growing industry to bloom here in Tanzania.

Elsewhere in the country, the story is brighter with farms in the Kilimanjaro region shipping many tens of millions of roses to worldwide markets

EMBRACING AFRICAN INFLUENCES IN MODERN INTERIOR DESIGN

The vibrant colours, bold patterns and rich cultural heritage of Africa bring a unique and refreshing aesthetic to contemporary spaces. Here, Tanzanian interior architect Neemaeli Mkony (right), who runs her own Dar-based interior design agency n/mk interiors, offers advice on how to get the look.

Colours and Textures

African-inspired interior design embraces a rich palette of earthy tones, vibrant hues and warm neutrals. Colours such as terracotta, ochre, deep reds, and warm browns mimic the natural landscapes of the African continent. These colours can be incorporated into the walls, furniture, and accessories, creating a warm and inviting ambiance.

Textures play a vital role in African design as well. Incorporating natural materials such as jute, sisal, rattan and bamboo adds depth and authenticity to the space. These materials can be used in furniture, rugs, or even as wall coverings, infusing the room with a tactile and organic feel.

Patterns and Prints

African design is renowned for its intricate patterns and prints, which add energy and visual interest to any space. Traditional African motifs, such as tribal prints, geometric patterns and animal prints can be incorporated into modern

interiors through textiles, wallpapers or even artwork.

Bold and oversized patterns can be balanced with more minimalistic elements to create a harmonious blend of styles. For example, a contemporary living

room can feature a sleek, neutral sofa adorned with vibrant African-inspired throw pillows, or a minimalist bedroom can be transformed by incorporating an African-printed rug.

Art and Artifacts

One of the most authentic ways to infuse African influences into modern interior design is by incorporating African art and artifacts. Traditional sculptures, masks or handwoven baskets can serve as captivating focal points and conversation starters. These pieces not only add a sense of history and cultural significance to the space but also contribute to supporting local artisans and communities.

Artwork inspired by African landscapes, wildlife or tribal traditions can also be used to adorn the walls. These pieces not only add visual interest but also pay homage to the rich heritage of the African continent.

Combine earthy tones with bringing nature indoors

Conclusion

Incorporating African influences into modern interior design provides a unique opportunity to create spaces that are visually stunning, culturally significant, and environmentally conscious. By embracing the vibrant colours, bold patterns and rich textures of African design, homeowners and designers can craft spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and deeply rooted in tradition. This is always part of my thought process when I design if the brief allows.

Whether it's using colours and textures, patterns and prints, or the inclusion of African art and artifacts, the infusion of African influences brings a fresh perspective to modern interiors. So why not explore the beauty and diversity of African design and embark on a journey that celebrates cultural exchange and creativity in the realm of interior design?

Revised PPP policy designed to attract private sector

With revisions to the public-private partnerships policy allowing projects to be solicited without a deposit commitment and a guarantee of tax incentives, Bertha Nanyaro, advocate at Dar es Salaam-based legal firm Victory Attorneys, looks at the implications for the private sector.

In Tanzania, the performance of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in many economic sectors has been low due to the complexity of projects and the lack of comprehensive legal frameworks. In a bid to attract more participation from the private sector, the Government approved the PPP policy in the year 2009 and it now compliments the National Development Vision of 2025. More support came from the enactment of the PPP Act Cap 103 revised in the year 2018 and its Regulations of 2020. In January this year, the Government submitted a Bill which seeks to amend the PPP Act of 2018 to address the challenges observed in the current Act. This article identifies major areas that the bill seeks to address:

Removal of the requirement to deposit 3% of the estimated project value. Initially, the private party participating in PPP projects was obligated under section 15(3) of the PPP Act and Regulation 8(1) of 2020 Regulations to make an advance commitment deposit of not less than 3% of the estimated project value. This requirement proved to be challenging to the private sector due to its associated risk and thus hindered their participation. The removal of this obligation attracts

more participation from the private sector in PPP projects.

Contracting Authority mandated to procure privately.

The PPP (Amendment) Act, 2023 seeks to allow Contracting Authority (CA) to procure privately and without competitive bidding processes. Section 8 of the amendment amends Section 15 by introducing Section 15(3) which allows the Minister to exempt solicited projects from competitive bidding. This exemption is limited to projects whose deliverables are of urgent nature and any procurement method would be impracticable. Application of exemption requires a private party to possess intellectual property rights to the key approaches or technologies required for the project and to have exclusive rights in respect of the project and no reasonable alternative or substitute is available.

PPP Projects Incentivised

The PPP Act of 2018 restricted fiscal incentives for PPP projects through section 21(2). The 2023 amendment seeks to remove this restriction by incentivizing PPP projects provided they qualify under Tanzania Investment Act.

Settling Disputes through ICSID.

The PPP Act of 2018 restricts parties to settle their dispute through Tanzania ADR forums but with if the PPP amendment act of 2023 is passed into law, parties will be able to settle their dispute either through Tanzania ADR systems or ICSID.

Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV).

Similarly, the Bill seeks to impose a conditional requirement for SPV under Section 18A for the implementation of the intended project.

Generally, the proposed amendment largely aligns with the Government’s Strategic Plan 2022/2026 and National Development Vision 2025, which both seek to address priority interventions and support private investments in order to boost economic growth.

This article is not intended to provide legal advice but to provide general information on the matter covered. Victory Attorneys & Consultants shall not be responsible for any loss in the event this Article is relied upon without first seeking our professional advice.

You can call Victory Attorneys & Consultants on +255 752 089 685 or email info@victoryattorneys.co.tz.

THE BEST DIY TECH

If your attitude to home improvement is more DI Why? than DIY then you may be in need of some technological assistance. Here are some handy gadgets to help you master that home makeover.

BOSCH MAX FLEXICLICK 5-in-1 Drill/Driver System

An electric cordless drill is a toolbox essential for home improvers. Drills allow users to easily bore new holes and drive screws, which is paramount for assembling homemade furniture, hanging shelves or removing fittings you no longer have need for. The Bosch Max is certainly adaptable. It has one tool and five attachments so it can drive in screws and drill holes in internal and external walls. It is lightweight and compact for use in tight places and has good battery life. A professional level drill for the serious DIY-er.

Where to buy: amazon.com

Price: US$ 415

Image: Bosch

BOSCH QUIGO Laser Level

This laser guide takes spirit levels to the next er… level. It is self-levelling so you just settle it on to a surface or a tripod and the lines it gives you are exact. Preparation is everything with DIY so marking a room will ensure all your shelves are level, all your sockets are in the right place, or your wallpaper hangs straight. Only a true DIY enthusiast knows the satisfaction of completing a room in which everything is in alignment.

Where to buy: amazon.com

Price: US$ 58

Image: Amazon.com

MILESCRAFT 1603 Knee Blades

DIY can be hard on the knees. Home improvement jobs such as laying tiles, wood flooring or patio slabs or installing electrical outlets and painting skirting boards mean extended periods kneeling on hard surfaces. After a while, it starts to take a toll. So, pamper your patellas with Milescraft Knee Blades, a pair of three-wheeled knee pads that allow you to glide across hard surfaces while working. The 1603 model is heavy duty with comfortable gel cushioning to evenly displace weight and lessen pressure on the knee. The trio of casters on each pad allow you to glide across floors, but if you are going to be staying in one place for a while you can remove them and rely on just the pads.

Where to buy: milescraft.com

Price: US$ 59.99

Image: Amazon.com

Telescoping Magnetic Pickup Tool

We’ve all done it. Just as you are approaching the final fixing on your home improvement project, you drop a crucial nail or screw. You hear it land but cannot find it. This extendable magnet pickup tool is the solution to this infuriating scenario. It can be used to retrieve any dropped screws, nuts, and bolts just by swiping it over a surface. It’s also equipped with a three-bulb LED flashlight and a neck that extends to 55 cm to help you locate any fugitive fasteners.

Where to buy: amazon.com

Price: US$ 35 Image: Amazon.com

MILESEEY Laser range finder

Tape measures can be awkward and rare is the DIY-er who has not had their fingers burned by a retractable tape measure snapping back on them. No such issues with this smart range finder which measures distances of up to 70 metres by shining a laser beam. It takes its measurements from the back of the unit so you can just hold it against a wall or sit it on the floor and it gives you the distance instantly. Also, very handy for determining the size of surfaces so you have a good idea how much paint, wallpaper or floor tiling is required to cover it

Where to buy: amazon.com

Price: US$ 35

Image: Amazon.com

Sound and vision

Mark Edwards rounds up the latest releases to stream, screen and read

Faysal Alao is a vlogger and tour operator from Tanzania living in Arusha. He uploads regular videos about his experiences and everyday lifestyle on his YouTube channel, ‘Lifestyle of Faysal’. You can also keep up with him on Snapchat @faysal_alao and Instagram @callmefays

With the rise of social media in recent years, some online influencers have built large followings by sharing their lives and interests with their fans on platforms such as Instagram, Tiktok and YouTube. As an influencer myself, I am aware of the pressure to maintain a certain persona within the growing of the industry. And because of this, a lot of questions have been asked about our authenticity and transparency and how this has impacted our following.

For us influencers, authenticity is crucial because it helps build trust with our audience. When we are honest and transparent about our experiences and opinions, our followers feel more connected to us. This connection not only leads to increased engagement and loyalty, but also a greater willingness to believe and act on our recommendations. It also follows that when we are seen as disingenuous or inauthentic, it can erode that trust and damage our reputation.

Speaking for myself, I always strive to demonstrate authenticity by sharing my struggles and vulnerabilities with my audience. Throughout my daily life creating content in the streets of Tanzania, I always show the challenges I come across with either the government or fellow locals who have not yet understood the importance of it and this has, in one way or another, inspired and motivated others to become influencers too. Humanising, and making my life relatable, has been my major source of success. Likewise, if all influencers were open about their flaws and mistakes, it could help to dispel the myth of perfection that is often associated with social media.

Even though most influencers I know, and follow do not like disclosing when they are being paid to promote a product or service, I personally think being transparent about our partnerships and sponsorships is the best way to demonstrate authenticity. While some influencers may worry that this will turn off their followers, the reality is that most people appreciate transparency and honesty. The most important thing I have learnt over the years of being an influencer is that consumers are more likely to trust and engage with us if we are transparent about our sponsorships. By being honest, relatable, and transparent, we can build trust with our audience and create a following that is very loyal and long term.

MUSIC REVIEWS

AVALANCHE OF LOVE / Witch

The pioneers of Zamrock – a fusion of African funk and blues rock that was the soundtrack of the early years of Zambian independence – return with this irresistible new single and an album, ‘Zango’, following closely on its heels, marking the band’s first new releases in nearly 40 years. The two remaining original members of Witch are now in their 70s, but the music sounds as fresh and inventive as ever. New generation Zambia-born artist Sampa The Great guests on ‘Avalanche of Love’, rapping with her trademark taut assurance over the spacey grooves. Witch are back and still living up to their name, an acronym for ‘We are here to create havoc’.

FILM REVIEWS

/ Seko Shamte

This visually stunning futuristic adventure has been described by its executive producer Seko Shamte as “a blend of art and film”. Nia, which means ‘purpose’ in Swahili, tells the story of Mwahamu is a brilliant young girl who aspires to graduate from Africa Utopia University class of 2028. When tragedy befalls her, she sinks into depression yet a new purpose comes from the future when someone from the year 2064 makes contact with an earth-shattering request. This cool slice of Afrofuturism has already been available to view on Clouds TV and YouTube and was among the films selected for this year’s Zanzibar Film Festival.

BOOK REVIEWS

NO EDGES / Swahili Stories edited by Sarah

Coolidge

This unique collection of sci-fi Swahili literature introduces eight writers from Tanzania and Kenya that each create vivid Afro-futurist worlds that abound with sorcerers and spaceships. The stories have all been translated into English from the original Swahili and are released through Two Lines Press, a US publishing house renowned for translated literature.

NIA

NAPAMBANA / Zuchu

Dar es Salaam-based singer-songwriter Zuchu was the big winner at the recent Tanzanian Music Awards, taking home five awards, and her first single of 2023 reveals that reaching those levels of success has not been easy. The self-penned ‘Napambana’, Swahili for ‘I Struggle’, explores a time in the 29-yearold’s life when she was experiencing financial difficulties and there seemed few avenues to improve her situation. The track universalises such challenges, addressing women everywhere striving to live their best life. Still the message is ultimately uplifting, exhorting us all to believe in ourselves, keep moving and trust in God. Zuchu is certainly a fine example of what that hard work can bring.

MARRIED TO WORK / Philippe Bresson

You’ll find this Pan-African romantic comedy on Netflix. Co-written by Tanzanian Angela Ruhinda and directed by Kenyan Philippe Bresson the film is shot on location in Nairobi, Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar and follows an ambitious Kenyan woman, who despairs with her demotivated boss. The feeling is mutual, but the pair are forced to feign feelings for each other when they pretend to be married to secure a lucrative client and save the real estate company from bankruptcy. If you think the couple continue disliking each other throughout the film you haven’t watched many rom-coms recently, but this perky, enjoyable film shows East Africa can do glossy cinema.

In October last year Lilian Hipolyte became the executive director of Dar es Salaam creative community Nafasi Arts Space and – we are very pleased to say – she is also now Twiga’s new arts columnist. Here she discusses the importance of freedom to an artist.

No ordinary doll: the transformative power of Mwana Hiti

In the heart of Tanzanian culture, there exists a remarkable wooden doll called Mwana Hiti. This beautiful creation is no ordinary doll, it is a transformative force. It holds the power to educate, empower, and shape the lives of girls and women in the community.

During the 2021 Nafasi Arts Management and Curatorial Academy, a pharmacist and a filmmaker, embarked on a creative journey that blended art, health, and cultural preservation. This led to the birth of ‘Mwanahiti’ a film co-directed by Haikaeli Gilliard and Nicholas Calvin. The film delved into the rite of passage traditions of coastal women-led societies.

‘Mwanahiti’ has been screened at esteemed venues, including Nafasi Art Space, Ajabu Ajabu Audiovisual House, TASUBA, and the Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF).

Beyond the screenings, the film has also been donated to the National Museum of Tanzania. It became a powerful tool for public engagement, research and education; ensuring its influence would continue to enrich lives.

I AM DR ANNA / Ajeka & Fox

The mysterious co-writing team behind last year’s Tanzania-set political thriller I Am Semba are back with its sequel, I Am Dr Anna, the second instalment in the promised Tanzanite Trilogy. Again, the focus is on the machinations of Tanzanian society with a fictional plot that has echoes of real events. This time the complex protagonist is a woman, Dakari Anna, whose sheen of sophistication and composure is tested when she is put under arrest. The book is available on Amazon and at Tanzania bookstore chain A Novel Idea.

The film has proved that art can bridge the gap between community, culture, and health. Through Haikaeli and Nicholas' collaboration, it preserved the beauty of Tanzanian culture, heritage and traditions for generations to come.

Mwana Hiti, the wooden doll that became a work of art, has demonstrated that art can ignite change, transform perceptions, and unite communities. It’s legacy lives on in the film, inspiring generations to embrace their culture and nurture their well-being.

Follow us: @nafasiartspace

Litupe Mtoni Throw

it in the River

The latest in Twiga’s exclusive series of Swahili short stories from members of Dar-based writer’s collective Uwaridi is by Salum Makamba, winner of the 2023 Mabati Cornell Award for poetry. It is a morality tale about how doing good deeds is far more important than the recognition you may or may not get for doing them.

Paliondokea kijana mwema katika kijiji kilicho pembezoni ya mto ambao ng’ambo yake aliishi mja aliyeaminika ni mwenye hekima kuliko watu wote kijijini aitwaye Ndiba wa Ndibalema. Kijana huyo jina lake Nzegenyuka. Kazi yake ilikuwa ni ufinyanzi. Wema wake ulidhihirika katika matendo kwani kila aliyemtaka msaada basi alijitahidi kumsaidia.

Pindi ilipotokea ameshindwa kuwa msaada kwa mtu moyo ulimuuma sana. Lakini bado hakujiona aso faida, kwani aliposhindwa kutoa msaada wa mali au tafakuri basi alimfanyia dua huyo mwenye shida ili Mola amtatulie shida yake.

Siku moja maradhi yalimkamata Nzegenyuka. Wiki nzima akawa wa kitandani. Wale wamtakao msaada mara kwa mara walifika nyumbani kwake lakini walipong'amua yu mgonjwa walitoweka. Wengi hawakurudi tena.

"Kila siku huwa nakwambia. Binadamu hawana shukrani. Haya unaumwa sasa. Hao ambao huwa unawasaidia wako wapi?" Mkewe alimnanga.

Nzegenyuka hakuwa na usemi. Ilibidi awe mpole mithili ya mja aliyeshikwa ugoni. Lakini Mungu si Athumani. Hatimaye alipona. Ila alichopitia katika hali ya ugonjwa kikawa kimemfunza.

"Nzegenyuka kawa na roho mbaya siku hizi. Hasaidii mtu. Kila akiombwa hana," baadhi ya wanakijiji walianza kulalamika.

"Inasemekana mkewe kamshika masikio. Ndo anamwamulia nini afanye na nini asifanye," wengine walichangia.

Nzegenyuka hakujali maneno ya watu. Je, ni kweli mkewe alikuwa kamshika masikio? La hasha! Ni yeye mwenyewe tu aliamua kujivika uibilisi ili na wengine wajue kwamba hana moyo wa chuma. Anapokuwa katika matatizo naye anahitaji faraja japo ya maneno na kutembelewa kama awapavyo faraja za mali na maombi wengine waendapo kwake pindi awapo na siha njema.

Nzegenyuka alidumu na ubahili kwa wiki kadhaa. Ni hali ambayo hakuipenda. Moyo wake ulikuwa ukimuuma sana pale mtu anapoenda kumlilia shida na akamwacha aondoke bila kumsaidia ilhali uwezo wa kufanya hivyo anao.

Kila alipowaona waliojaribu kumtaka msaada wakiendelea kutaabika moyo wake ukawa unabubujika damu.

"Utaamua mwenyewe uwasaidie au la! Maamuzi ni yako ila usisahau walivyokutendea wakati unaumwa," mkewe alimjibu alipomtaka ushauri.

"Lakini wanateseka mke wangu."

"Waache wateseke. Kwani wewe hukuteseka wakati unaumwa. Kama Mungu alivyokuondolea wewe maradhi ndivyo atakavyowaondolea na wao ufukara wakati ukiwadia."

Majibu ya mkewe hayakumridhisha sana Nzengenyuka. Ikabidi afunge safari na kwenda kumwona Ndiba wa Ndibalema. Alipofika akamweleza kila kitu na hali ya huzuni anayoipitia pale anapoacha kusaidia watu.

"Kuanzia sasa kila utakapofanya jema basi litupe mtoni," Ndiba wa Ndibalema alimshauri.

"Nitawezaje kufanya hivyo?"

"Unaweza kuliandika kwenye kipande cha ubao, au ardhini kisha ukazoa udongo uliouandikia, ama kwa kuwaza na kadhalika. Vyovyote vile. Lakini hakikisha kila unapofanya jema basi unalitupa mtoni."

Alipohoji sababu akajibiwa afanye tu. Ipo siku ataelewa.

Nzegenyuka aliondoka akijiuliza ni kwa vipi kutupa mema yake mtoni kutasababisha wengine wamtendee wema anapokuwa kwenye shida kama awafanyiavyo wao. Hata hivyo, aliufanyia kazi ushauri wa Ndiba wa Ndibalema. Akarejea utaratibu wake wa kusaidia watu ila kila alipofanya hivyo basi jema lake alilitupa mtoni.

Siku moja msafara wa wafanyabiashara ulipita kijijini kwao. Walipoziona bidhaa za ufinyazi za kijana huyo walibutwaika.

"Kuna kisiwa bidhaa hizi zina thamani kubwa sana. Ukizifikisha huko lazima uwe tajiri," mfanyabiashara mmoja alimwambia Nzegenyuka.

Taarifa hiyo ilimvutia sana Nzegenyuka. Aliuliza anawezaje kufika katika kisiwa hicho

na wafanyabiashara wakamwambia anaweza kuongozana nao kwani ndiko wanakoelekea. Nzegenyuka hakufanya ajizi. Alifunga mzigo wa kutosha na siku ya kuondoka aliongozana na wafanyabiashara. Baada ya safari ya siku kadhaa hatimaye walitokezea pembezoni mwa bahari.

Waliuandama ufukwe hadi wakafika pahali palipo na bandari. Walitia mizigo yao jahazini kisha wakaianza safari.

Wakiwa katikati kwenye kina kirefu. Si kusi wala kaskazi, mash wala magh panapoonekana, bahari ilichafuka. Mashua yao ilipigwa na wimbi zito na kubinuka. Wao na mali zao wote wakatupwa majini.

Nzegenyuka akiwa katika kuipambania roho yake akaibuka mnyama wa baharini aitwaye pomboo. Akambeba Nzengenyuka mgongoni na kwenda kumtupa ufukweni.

Taarifa za kuzama kwa mashua iliyowabeba wafanyabiashara zilisambaa kijijini. Ikasemekana hakuna hata mmoja aliyepona miongoni mwa watu zaidi ya thelathini waliokuwa ndani yake.

Ajabu ni kwamba siku kadhaa tangu kusambaa kwa taarifa hiyo Nzegenyuka alionekana amerejea kijijini. Kila mmoja akawa na shauku ya kutaka kujua ni vipi yupo hai wakati ilisemekana watu wote walikufa.

Alipowasimulia kilichotokea watu walistaajabu. "Ni kama bahati tu ilinitokea," Nzegenyuka alitamka wakati akihitimisha simulizi yake.

Ndiba wa Ndibalema akamfuata na kumwambia, "Si bahati. Huu mto unaokatiza kijijini kwetu unazaliwa milimani na kwenye misitu kisha unaenda kufia baharini. Ule wema ambao wewe huufanya kijijini watu wanapoacha kukushukuru huwa unakufa hapa ila unapoutupa mtoni husafirishwa na kwenda kuzaliwa upya baharini. Hivyo pomboo aliyekuokoa ni kiumbe aliyetokana na wema uwafanyiao watu hapa kijijini wala si bahati."

Usisahau abadani, "Hakuna wema uendao bure," kwani chambilecho wahenga, "Wema hauozi."

Mwenye kuwatendea viumbe wema atalipwa tu hata kama anaowatendea si wenye kurejesha shukrani.

Sign up to Twiga Miles now and get 1,000 free points!

There’s never been a better time to take advantage of Twiga Miles, Air Tanzania’s loyalty programme, with all new members who sign up before May 19 this year getting a welcome pack of 1,000 points as soon as they take their first flight.

And that’s just the beginning of your savings as every subsequent flight you take will earn you more points, which can all be redeemed towards future free flights across Air Tanzania’s domestic and international network of destinations. The amount of points you will earn depends on your ticket type, fare class and destination.

As a Twiga Miles member each flight you take will also help you climb through the ranks of our tier system. With each tier upgrade, you’ll get access to even more varied and valuable benefits.

So, what are you waiting for? Sign up at www.airtanzania.co.tz now.

FAQS

How do I enrol?

Visit airtanzania.co.tz or contact our call centre on 0800 110 045

Will I get a membership card?

Cards will be issued to Silver Selous and Gold Serengeti members.

How long does it take for my points to be transferred to my account?

Your points will have been transferred

BLUE

Start earning points towards a free flight with Air Tanzania.

Member Benefits

SILVER SELOUS

Members will earn 25% more points than Blue members on each flight they take.

Free extra 5kg baggage allowance on domestic flights

Priority check-in at Dar, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar airports

Priority membership baggage tags that ensure your bags are first on conveyor belt at your destination

GOLD SERENGETI

Members will earn 50% more points than Blue members on each flight they take.

Free extra 10kg baggage allowance on domestic flights

Priority check-in at Dar, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar airports

Priority membership baggage tags that ensure your bags are first on conveyor belt at your destination

to your account no later than 72 hours following your flight.

How long do my points remain valid?

Until the end of the third calendar year following the date you earned them. For example, points earned in June 2021 remain valid till the end of 2024.

How can I spend my points?

You can spend your points by clicking

on “Use My Points to Buy” section under the payment options tab for the tickets you are going to buy on our website at www.airtanzania.co.tz

Twiga Miles is only for passengers aged 18 and above. The scheme applies to all Air Tanzania destinations. Air Tanzania reserves the right to amend the terms and conditions of the campaign. All users participating in the campaign are deemed to have read and accepted these rules.

Before take-off

1 Before departing, it is important to check the airline’s website for its hand luggage rules: weight, sizes and types of objects you can take on board. For example, as regards liquids, you are advised to carry these in your hand luggage, only in transparent, reseal able, plastic containers, not exceeding 100 ml. If you have connection flights, we advise that you also check the websites of other airlines.

2 Arrive at the airport in advance (at least two hours for

domestic flights and three hours for international flights).

3 Check in online, if possible. If travelling with hand luggage alone, you can check in online and print or download your boarding pass which you must take with you directly to security checks.

4 Set your mobile to flight mode, as well as other devices connected to the internet that you are taking on board. Cabin crew will remind you of this

AIR TANZANIA FLEET

step before take-off. With flight mode set, you can still take photos of your unforgettable journey and you can also enjoy the in-flight entertainment system!

5 To prevent sickness from ruining your first flight on a plane, we advise you to take natural remedies, such as, for example, ginger tablets or gum to chew.

6 Enjoy the view! By choosing a seat near the window, you will see breath-taking landscapes

and you can take photos of the exquisite white clouds you will be flying above.

7 Try to take a nap. Sleeping on the plane will make time pass faster and you will arrive at your destination calm and rested.

8 Lastly, especially during take-off and landing, the change in pressure inside the cabin may cause discomfort in your ears. Chew gum or wear earplugs to combat this.

National carrier Air Tanzania is justifiably proud of its revamped six-strong fleet. Here we take a close-up look at our aircraft with technical data and specifications.

DE HAVILLAND CANADA DASH

8-Q400

Number of aircraft available:

5 De Havilland Canada

Seat capacity: (3 De Havilland Canada) Business Class 6, Economy 70, (1 De Havilland Canada) Business class 10, Economy 68

Number of flight-deck crew: 2

Range: 2,063 km (1,362 Nm)

Typical cruising speed: up to 360 knots (414 mph or 667 km/hr)

Wingspan: 93 ft 3 in (28.4 m)

Length: 107 ft 9 in (32.8 m)

AIRBUS 220-300 (CS300)

Number of aircraft available: 4

Seat capacity: Business Class 12 and 120 Economy Class

Number of flight-deck crew: 2

Range: 6,112 km (3,300 Nm)

Typical cruising speed: 470 knots (541 mph or 871 km/hr)

Thrust per engine at sea level: 23,300 lbf / 103.6 kN

Wingspan: 115 ft 1 in (35.1 m)

Length: 127 ft (38.7 m)

Interior cabin width: 129 inches (3.28 m)

BOEING 787-8 DREAMLINER

Number of aircraft available: 2

Seat capacity: Business Class 22 and 240 Economy Class

Number of flight-deck crew: 2

Range: 13,621 km (7,355 Nm)

Typical cruising speed: 488 knots (561 mph or 903 km/hr)

Thrust per engine at sea level: 64,000 lbf / 280 kN

Wingspan: 197 ft 3 in (60.12 m)

Length: 186 ft 1 in (56.72 m)

Interior cabin width: 18 ft 0 inch (5.49 m)

BOEING 767-300F CARGO

Number of aircraft available: 1

Seat capacity: N/A

Range: 6,025 km (3,253 Nm)

Typical cruising speed: 488 knots (561 mph or 903 km/hr)

Cargo volume: 438 cubic metres

Cargo weight: 52.7 tonnes

Thrust per engine at sea level: 60,600 lbf / 270 kN

Wingspan: 156 ft 3 in (47.57 m)

Length: 180 ft 3 in (54.94 m)

Taking your first flight is certainly exciting, but can also become a source of stress for those who are unfamiliar with the rules, procedures and customs of flying. To prepare yourself for your first flight, it is therefore important to get information on everything you need to do before and during your journey. Here is a useful pre-departure checklist.

FREE BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE

Air Tanzania has a free allowance for passengers’ baggage across economy and business class. For full details and rates please see our website www.airtanzania.co.tz or contact booking enquiries

0800 110045

hours ahead of your flight time for domestic flights and three hours for international flights.

Family travel Fares for infants and children

that all expectant mothers consult a doctor before booking their ticket and inquire about their fitness to fly the length of the trip they intend to take.

Child fare baggage allowance

Children and infants travelling on a child fare are eligible for the same baggage allowance as adults.

Wheelchairs

Passports and visas

A valid passport or travel document that is valid for at least six months is required to enter the United Republic of Tanzania.

Visitors will also require a valid visa upon arrival. There are a range of visas available depending on the nature and frequency of your visits, but a single entry visa can be obtained on arrival in Tanzania subject to the fulfilment of all immigration requirements. There is a US$ 50 charge for the visa. For a full list of visas available and for countries for which special terms exist, visit the Air Tanzania website.

Check-in

Check in online, if possible. If travelling with hand luggage alone, you can check in online and print or download your boarding pass, which you must take with you directly to security checks. You should check in two

As a general rule, children up to two years old are not required to have their own seat and are allowed to travel on parents’ lap. An infant tickets costs 10 per cent of the regular fare. Depending on the destination, taxes and fees may apply. Please note that only 1 baby per adult is accepted. You can choose to buy a seat for your baby at the reduced rates for children if any children’s rate is applicable.

If your child is older than two years or turns two while you are travelling, you will have to book a separate seat for him or her and book the children fare for the entire journey. If a child travels with an accompanying adult in the same class of cabin, the child should be seated in the same seat row as the accompanying adult. Where this is not possible, the child should be seated no more than one seat row or aisle away. Reduced rates apply for children aged two to 11 on most routes, depending on the travel class. Children turning 12 years en route need to be booked as adults for the entire journey.

Expectant mothers

Our priority is always your safety and that of your unborn child.

To avoid unnecessary risks to you and your baby, we recommend

Depending on the stage and circumstances of your pregnancy, you may be required to present certain medical forms before flying. For your own safety and the well-being of your child, Air Tanzania will not accept expectant mothers who are pregnant from their 34th week or beyond.

UMNR (children travelling alone)

If you’re planning for your child to travel alone, we’re here to make sure they enjoy their trip and that they are well taken care of throughout their journey.

When you book our unaccompanied minor service, your child will be received at the originating airport, taken care of during transit and while on board the aircraft. He or she will be handed over to the person designated by the parents/ guardians upon arrival at the final destination.

Cost

To avail the unaccompanied minor service, an adult fare needs to be purchased for the child. Please contact us to book the flight and the service.

Infant fare checked baggage allowance

Infants travelling on an infant fare are allowed 10 kg as baggage allowance.

If you need wheelchair assistance at the airport, you must advise Air Tanzania of this at the time of booking. You can request wheelchair assistance through our Call Centre or at Air Tanzania Sales offices.

Inflight Wi-Fi

On board Wi-Fi

Enable Wi-Fi on your laptop, tablet or smartphone, and select AirTanzaniaWifi

You will need to launch your web browser, which will display the log-in web portal. From the portal, simply select your preferred price plan.

Portable electronic devices (PEDs)

You can use your e-readers, tablets and smartphones from gate to gate – including taxiing, take-off and landing – without a risk to safety.

Note that on-board Wi-Fi is only available on certain aircraft. Please follow cabin crew instructions at all times.

WHERE TO CONTACT US

CONTACT CENTRE

Location: ATC House, Ohio Street. Email: info@airtanzania.co.tz

0800 110045 Toll Free (Tanzania only)

Tel: +255 22 2117500

International customers: +255 222 113 248

AIR TANZANIA CONTACTS

DAR ES SALAAM (HQ)

Location: ATC House, Ohio Street PO Box 543

Office (JNIA) Tel: +255 222 117 500

Email: darairport.station@airtanzania.co.tz

ARUSHA

Location: Old Moshi Road, NSSF Mafao House

Email: arusha.station@airtanzania.co.tz

Tel: + 255 272 520 177/ +255 739 787 500

MBEYA

Location: Mbeya Mjini

Email: godfrey.Samanyi@airtanzania.co.tz

Mob: 0714 800 080 / 0737 800 090

COMOROS

Location: Immeuble MATELEC Moroni, Grande Comores

Email: com’airgsaatc@gmail.com

Tel: +269 3312570 / +269 3322058

BUKOBA

Location: Jamhuri Road, NSSF Building

Email: airtanzaniasalesbukoba@gmail.com

Tel: 0767351336 /0735351336

KILIMANJARO

Location: KIA

Email: arusha.station@airtanzania.co.tz

Mob: +255 735 787 249

DODOMA

Location: Hatibu Road, Tofiki Street, CDTF Building

Tel: + 255 262 322 272/ 0735 787 241 (mobile)/

0683 776 744 (mobile)

Email: dodoma.station@airtanzania.co.tz

MWANZA

Tel: +255 735 787 239/ +255 28 2501059

Email: mwanza.station@airtanzania.co.tz

E-COMMERCE

Location: ATC House, Ohio Street. Email: tce-commerce@airtanzania.co.tz

For the latest flights, information and to book online, visit: www.airtanzania.co.tz

Follow us on: @AirTanzania @airtanzania airtanzania_atcl Air Tanzania ATCL

TABORA

Email: tabora.station@airtanzania.co.tz

SONGEA

Location: African Benedict Office  Hanga- opposite TRA Songea

Email: songea.station@airtanzania.co.tz

Mob: +255 712 796 421

KIGOMA

Location: Lumumba Road, opp. Mambo Leo Pharmacy

Email: kigoma.station@airtanzania.co.tz

Mob: +255 742 580 580

IRINGA

Location: Asas House, Dodoma Road, opp. TCC.

Email: Iringa.station@airtanzania.co.tz

Mob: +255 753 574 986

ZANZIBAR

Location: Postal Building, Kijangwani

Email: zanzibar.station@airtanzania.co.tz

Mob: +255 785 452 585

ZIMBABWE

Location: 24 Shamwari Complex, 157 Sam Nujoma Street, Ext Belgravia, Harare

Email: hresalestc@airtanzania.co.tz

Tel: +263 424 796 286/7

Mob: +263 773 119 462

ZAMBIA

Barnetts Building, Shop 3, Hailie Selasie Avenue, Longacres, Lusaka.

Mob: +260 956 610 250

Email: support.lusaka@airtanzania.co.tz

KAMPALA

Location: Park Royal Mall, Room 208, Buganda Road.

Email: uganda.station@airtanzania.co.tz

Email: bbesalestc@airtanzania.co.tz

Tel: +256 414 289 474 / +256 393 517 145

ENTEBBE

Location: Entebbe International Airport, Room no 095.

Email: uganda.station@airtanzania.co.tz

Email: bbesalestc@airtanzania.co.tz

Tel: +256 716 680 250

BURUNDI

Location:  Bujumbura-Mairie, Boulevard de la Liberté, Galerie Alexander, No 10

Email: fantasticvoyage1@gmail.com

Tel: +257 610 139 48.

INDIA

Location: Ajanta Travels PVT Ltd, VN Road, Mumbai.

Email: Res.bom@airtanzania.co.in

Tel: +91 224 979 0108/09/ +91 98200 61232

(cargo)/ +91 98193 65286 (reservations)/ +91 740 0084680 (staff airport supervisors)

JOHANNESBURG

Location: West Tower, 2nd Floor, Nelson Mandela

Square, Maude Street, Sandown, Gauteng, South Africa 2146

Email: southernafrica@airlinepros.com

Tel: +27 11 881 5945

Tel: +27 11 881 5945

NAIROBI

Location: 35 Muthithi Road, Stellato Building, Westlands, Nairobi, Kenya

Mob: +254 736 197 197 / +254 732 247 000.