Tanzania Roundup: Investments, assault case, flight delays, gang-rape trial
Investment projects
Tanzania saw a significant increase in investment projects in the first half of 2024, with 409 projects worth $3.09 billion registered. This is a substantial rise from the previous year, with the manufacturing sector leading in the number of projects, Africa Business Insider reports. The Tanzania Investment Center is working to encourage more domestic investment and educate Tanzanians on investment opportunities.
Investigations on assault case
Tanzania police commander transferred after making controversial comments linking a gang rape victim to sex work. The national police force apologised for the remarks and said the commander had been transferred. The commander's comments sparked outrage as a video of the alleged assault went viral. The Citizen reports that the investigation found that the assault was not carried out on the orders of any security forces.
Tax incentives
Tanzania Investment Centre has registered 409 investment projects worth $3.09 billion between January and June 2024, with a target of reaching $8.5 billion by the end of 2024. According to The Citizen, the leading sector is manufacturing, with 196 projects worth $1.42 billion. The center is also promoting domestic investment and has reduced the minimum investment capital from $100,000 to $50,000. Various industries, including mining and manufacturing, have benefitted from tax incentives. Lindi District Commissioner encourages Tanzanians to take advantage of the improved investment environment.
Gang-rape trial
Four men in Tanzania are on trial for gang-raping a young woman, after a video of the assault was shared on social media. The men pleaded not guilty, and the trial is set to officially begin on Tuesday. According to News Central, public outrage grew after a former mayor accused Tanzanian soldiers of being the perpetrators, and the police chief attempted to downplay the incident. Rights groups have condemned these remarks.
Flight delays
Tanzania's new Boeing B787-8 Dreamliner has been delayed due to weather challenges. The aircraft, which can carry 262 passengers, was set to arrive at Zanzibar's airport and expand flight routes for Air Tanzania Company Limited. The delay is beyond the airline's control, and a new arrival schedule will be announced, The Citizen reports. This new addition will bring the total number of aircraft in ATCL's fleet to 16, with the company now having two Dreamliner aircraft.
