Saturday 15 October 2022

A slice of Peace at Sawa Sawa Bay in Bongo (Old Mbalamwezi)


Looking for a quiet spot on the beach in the evenings on Dar shores can be cumbersome, as much of the public beaches have a curfew! Yes you read right, thankfully one evening as I was looking to meditate in peace post 6pm on the Mikocheni beach area. I stumbled on an old establishment (Mbalamwezi) that’s now with a new name and whole new look. 

Going with the name Sawa Sawa Bay, it has friendly Maasai guards ensuring you can experience the beach post 6pm in safety with all your wits about you. Sawa Sawa Bay has within it an expansive restaurant with outside seating some on a manicured lawn, some on the sand and others on concrete under a few pergolas depending on your preference. The expansive bar is side by side a stage that accommodates live performances inclusive of DJ’s & or Live bands. The whole area faces the beach in a clean minimalist décor that takes maximum advantage of the wonderful view of the Indian Ocean.

While the new management has given us a new name, they have as well opened up the area not with corporate greed to cram all sorts of buildings on its beach front (that they keep clean). Instead stepping here you take a good gulp of fresh ocean air away from the bustling cram of the city. The seating is scattered fairly to allow for intimate gatherings and thankfully its bathrooms are clean, modern and maintained as such.

On the menu here is a continental cuisine favoring seafood dishes as well barbeques. One afternoon had me sampling their ‘Chicken Sawa Sawa with Wedges’ only I ordered it with Ugali. The meal arrived on time; a midsized steaming white mountain on a wide square plate with a good amount of colorful fresh veggies. On its side the chicken barbeque was dipped in sautéed gravy, it did go down well with that Ugali, allowing for easy swallows and tasty revisits. Another visit to this establishment had me tasting their starter ‘Crispy Chicken Nuggets’; these juicy chicken pieces fried in a light batter come with a dipping sauce of coleslaw and chili making for delish bites.

What pulls a second and third visit to Sawa Sawa is the service, the guards to the waiters and bartenders all send a sincere ‘karibu’. Another notch on their cap is the music, from Fridays to Sunday’s there’s usually a DJ and or Live Band. Having enjoyed a Friday night with a set of DJ’s here, it was to experience music. Not aimed at maiming your ears with deafening sounds, no this music seeped into your psyche. As the DJ’s were noting tempo and creativity allowing for stories in song that strangers could form bonds to on the dance floor. Where the ocean backdrop invites a most seductive release of being in the now; Sawa Sawa Bay is located opposite the Warioba bus stop in Mikocheni, Dar es Salaam. You can check them out on their facebook page Sawasawa Bay for details of their key events.

By Caroline Uliwa

n.b. this article was first published in The East African Newspaper in Sept 2022

Wednesday 24 August 2022

National Museum Tanzania is implementing renovations from GVT Covid-19 Fund


Historical sites currently being renovated under
the NMT at Mikindani Old Town in Mtwara, Tanzania

The National Museum in Tanzania (NMT) has under it seven museums inclusive of the Village Museum (Dar es Salaam), Museum & House of Culture (Dar es Salaam), Natural History Museum (Arusha), Arusha Declaration Museum (Arusha), Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere Museum (Butiama), Maji Maji war memorial museum (Songea), Dr Mfaume Rashid Kawawa Museum (Songea). This institution also boasts of over 90 sites and monuments nationwide that as well are under its care. 

The Ngoni traditional rest house currently
renovated at the Village Museum
in DSM, TZ. This house is for
the male head of the household

Effective since April this year NMT has managed to secure government funding equivalent to 2.45 Billion Tanzanian Shillings. This from the Covid-19 development relief funds that the Government of Tanzania has procured from international financial instutions like IMF & the African Development Bank.

Like the majority of African countries Tanzania doesn’t escape the paradox of being with systems of governance barely clocking a century (Tanzania as a government is 60 years old). While its citizens are scientifically accredited to have a lineage going back to early hominids (precursors of modern man) as evidenced at the House of Culture Museum under NMT in Dar es Salaam. Where the original skull of a Zinjanthropus boisei or Paranthropus boisei exists, this early man goes back 1.8 million years hailing from the Leakey’s excavation of it in the 50’s at Olduvai Gorge in Northeast Tanzania.

An old mosque currently being renovated by the
National Museum of Tanzania in Mikindani,
Mtwara courtsey of Covid-19 TZ GVT development fund

For the institution with the mandate of preserving, researching communicating and educating the public; aligned with their strategy (2021-2026) vision of having a society with a strong sense of value and pride in its heritage and culture. Theirs is a wide opportunity to wipe the amnesia that clogs our perception on what were we really up to as a people 400 yrs back, heck even 5000 years ago. As its evident the particulars of this history aren’t as easily accessible to the majority of Tanzanian & African natives.

An old Fort in Lindi Town a historical monument currently
being renovated by NMT in Lindi, TZ

In seeking more insight on what this fund means for NMT in continuing to fulfill its role, the Director General of NMT Dr. Noel Lwoga relays. “I felt lucky to be part of the process of mapping the strategic plan for NMT for the next five years 2021-2026. I knew the challenges it was facing particularly with regards to low attendance from the public to its exhibition & sites. Herein there are many factors involved some contextual others geographical et cetera. However we’re happy to report that in all our seven museums in Tanzania during the apex of the covid-19 pandemic in 2020 till 2021. More than 350,000 people visited our museums with an above 80% local record.” Prior to his appointment at the NMT Dr Lwoga was a lecturer at the University of Dar es Salaam with his education background focused on Archaeology & Tourism. 

Renovations currently taking place at
the Maji Maji museum in Songea, Tanzania

In my thirst to uncover if this paradox concerns our government of having a nation rightly celebrated as 60 years old yet with a people linked to a history stretching back a million years plus. It was a pleasant surprise to learn as the head of Public Relations at NMT Ms Joyce M. Mwakalobo informed me. “Tanzania also boasts of over 25 private museums inclusive of Kaole, Olduvai Gorge & Old Boma; many of which are communally owned and are officially recognized by the Ministry of Natural Resources & Tourism in Tanzania.” 

Sitting with these exec’s of NMT it was ascertained that this funding came at an opportune time, as the institution was experiencing a dry spell of necessary funding for its sustainable development. Thankfully the fund is already being put to good use working to repair, revamp and or renovate various spaces countrywide under its care. These renovations are divided between sites/historical monuments and the museums.

This is a traditional storage house for
harvested grains for a tribe from
Southern East Tanzania.
Renovated currently at the
Village Museum in DSM

Among the sites currently being renovated is the historical town of Mikindani in Mtwara. Specifically it’s old harbor, prison, as well as various decaying buildings (mosques etc) and it’s old fort.  “All the renovations we’re doing like at Mikindani the old prison, which was a slave port, we’re always consulting various experts including archaeologists. To ensure the authenticity of the materials, arrangements, finds are respected so as to safeguard the historical integrity of these sites.” Neema Mbise head of Planning Unit at NMT shared, it was riveting to learn from her office that NMT is as well renovating the Tenda Guru site in Lindi region.

This is where two full dinosaur skeletons were excavated and taken to Germany in the early 1900’s. They are still there with one of them holding a Guinness record since 2007 as the world tallest mounted dinosaur skeleton (Brachiosaurus brancai) in Berlin. NMT has thought to allow the site to be marked with clear identifications (photographs, info graphics) branding; so as to allow East Africans to know of their own heritage without waiting to get a ticket to go to Berlin.

Partial aerial view of renovations underway at Mikindani
Old Town in Mtwara, Tanzania by the NMT.
Sponsored Tanzania's GVT Covid-!9 development fund

Other sites that are being renovated include the Kimbiji site in Kigamnoni, Dar es Salaam. Also Lindi Old Town is having its historical sites renovated inclusive of its Old Tower. The sites at Mafia Kilwa Island are also in the planning for renovations this year. These renovations of sites include the installation of administration small offices, branding materials (sign posts etc) and establishing amenities like toilets and or café’s.

“As for the museums we have decided to revamp the exhibitions in six of our seven stations but we as well are in the process of renovating our collection stores. Among the exhibitions being revamped is the ones at the Museum of House of Culture, namely the customs and the natural habitat exhibitions both at the King George Hall. In this museum we’re also working on renovating the stores and installing an international standard lab for preservation.” Mme Neema Mbise informs, she added that other renovations happening in NMT museums are at the Arusha declaration, the Natural History, the Maji Maji and the Nyerere museums. These renovations include expanding exhibitions (boosting collections, enhancing displays), installing laboratories, revamping libraries adding amenities (toilets, boosting security) et cetera.

A memorium of the smelting iron furnace
from the Wafipa tribe in Tanzania
who were smelting Iron since the 1700,
it is part of the renovations
Visiting the village museum in Dar es Salaam, I got a well rounded tour with Mr Petro Mayige, who showed me the ongoing renovations at this museum. That primarily displays the traditional homes and several key ethnographic artifacts inclusive of natural habitats, belonging to all the major tribe groups of Tanzania. The homesteads renovated with this fund include those of the Zanaki, Sukuma and currently underway the Hehe tribe. Thankfully in recent years other homesteads have been renovated like those of the Wasafwa, WaKinga & WaIraqw tribes.

“The interaction of person and thing with regards to museums can’t be static.” As Dr Lwoga shared this statement he went on to emphasise the unique process of the renovations of traditional homesteads at this Village museum. All the homesteads at this museum were built with assistance from the tribe members many times with their Chiefs a norm going back since the establishment of the museum in 1967.

This is the traditional kitchen for the Ngoni tribe as renovated
at the Village Museum in DSM with a food storage & stove
.

“Towards the end of 2021 I was happy to attend a meeting pulling together various Museum Heads in Senegal. There was a hot debate that ensued following the difference of preservation for Africans in terms of cultural artifacts and the West.” Dr Lwonga notes here that what is valued in African preservation of its heritage involves more of a living pilgrim rather than a calcified object. Where in the west historical preservation of heritage leans more towards aesthetics and permanence, with African preservation he shared that there’s a lot of spiritual connotations that don’t look at decay as a peril rather a chance for the community to come together in its ‘ubuntu’ philosophy t renovate these pilgrims. 

While the National Museum of Tanzania is doing this powerful work, it is wise to note that the institution has still a long way to go. To ensure it works as an effective catalyst pulling all the cultural stakeholders (Creatives & Academicians) in the country. To work together alongside their mission of protecting, promoting and managing our national heritage for the present and future generations. For only then will it effectively accomplish many of its strategies, including that of establishing an inventory of all the cultural resources & treasures existing outside the country. Treasures like the dinosaur skeleton in Germany that only when enough Tanzanians care and send an outcry to the world in a united manner, will active results be seen in the way of restitution. 

By Caroline Uliwa

n.b. this article was first published in The EastAfrican newspaper and the Daily Newspaper in Tanzania

Thursday 21 July 2022

Kestoria Kavazi launches its Website of TZ Feminist Archives

An artwork by
'Harakati za Mwanamke
Imara' present at the exhibition
supporting the launch
of Kestoria Kavazi
at SOMA recently
This famous quote ‘‘Until the Lion learns how to write, every story will glorify the hunter” by Elizabeth Shassere. Aptly describes the push that has launched 
Kestoria Kavazi an online archive of feminist stories from Tanzania, the celebration of which occurred at Soma Book Café grounds in Dar es Salaam earlier in June this year. 

Actors from 'Girl Power' group at SOMA grounds
in DSM performing a play for the Kestoria Kavazi
launch-Photo by Nicholaus Brown

On this Saturday afternoon art accompanied this launch through the lively antics of ‘Girl Power’ an arts group showcasing theatre, dance & traditional music. They entertained us with a small skit accompanied by a traditional ‘ngoma’, where we witnessed a woman narrowly escaping sexual assault. As well a lady in her late twenties being told by her husband not to go to the market ‘dressed like that’, while they had on a loose t-shirt and a pair of trousers. “At least he allows you to go out, personally I am not permitted to leave the house…”Mwamgeni Mohammed actress & dancer responds to Irene (playing the wife forbidden to wear trousers) while she shares her ordeal with friends.

This theatre skit was engaging as the actors were emotionally invested managing to captivate the audience throughout their performance. Afterwards their traditional dance called ‘Chikocha’, a compilation of several traditional dances from the region of Mtwara. Left a satisfying synergy between what Kestoria Kavazi is trying to mainstream and their storytelling. For their performance was a reminder of how East African societies informed and told their stories in the past; stories that mostly amplified both gender perspectives.  

“Patriarchy as the status quo has shaped much of the stories we consume today from what is picked as news worthy to what we learn is history. Noticing this gap we thought to have an archive that documents more stories highlighting the feminine perspectives in our country.” Magdalena Thomas program manager of Kestoria Kavazi added that in executing this project which still invites various storytellers to submit feminist Tanzanian stories for Kestoria Kavazi. 

It was affirmed that there’s a huge gap of well researched & articulated feminist stories from Tanzania particularly online. Like those of notable figures in Tanzania’s history like Bibi Titi Mohammed (Political Activist, heavily involved in the fight for Independence of then Tanganyika), Siti Binti Saad (The first East African singer to make commercial recordings) & Nduna Mkomanile (A soldier in the Maji Maji War) whose story has yet to be recorded. 

The Guest of Honor at the Kestoria Kavazi launch
Mme Rose Marandu Director of Women Fund Tanzania
WFT at the ceremony inside SOMA grounds-
Photo by Nicholaus Brown
Kestoria Kavazi is a project that began three years ago the covid-19 pandemic is what slowed its progress. It’s implementation is a partnership between various gender activist organizations in Tanzania (TGNP, Msichana InitiativeWAJIKI Nafasi Artspace, Wildaf, WLAC, TAWIDO, VICOBA, TIBA, SAJAKI, TUSONGE, LHRC) headed by Soma Book Cafe sponsored by Women Fund Tanzania WFT & African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF)

Before we were ushered to open our smart phones and witness this archive, we were taken to an exhibition at the premises that is still going on till next week. The exhibition has a clever display of household items associated with the feminine by ‘Harakati za Mwanamke Imara’. I still can’t get over this golden coconut on a ‘mbuzi’-the traditional coconut grater from coastal Tanzania. It also has this multimedia piece (photographs & fabric) by Getrude Alex Malizana inquiring on whether marriage/weddings are really the pride of a woman? 

An animation by Gwantwa Lucas an artist from TZ,
in collaboration with Kestoria Kavazi
manifested this animation sharing the story
of a young girl choosing to be a mechanic in Bongo!
I particularly was enamored by the short animation video present at this exhibition by Gwantwa Lucas. It follows the story of a secondary student girl from Tanzania who really wants to be a car mechanic, to the utter dismay of both her parents. Here the dynamics of who are the propellers of patriarchy is well explored as the mother turns out to be a true foe to this young lady’s progress.  Reminding us the responsibility rests with all of us to usher in gender balance.

Gender activist Eluka puts it well, “Unfortunately those with more resources, those with more opportunities get to be able to tell their story, dictating what we believe to be knowledge or information. I believe this archive is trying to shift that narrative acknowledging that we all have a particular something to contribute as everybody’s lived experience should be valued equally.”Eluka Chelu Kibona - Social Development Adviser –Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

Magdalena Thomas Project Manager of Kestoria Kavazi
at the launch of this archive in June this year

It was the words of notable Tanzanian author-poet Neema Komba in her poem presented at this launch ‘Lakini sauti yake haisikiki, Na kilio chake cha kwikwi hakimsikitishi’ translating ‘But her voice is not heard, Her hiccup cries don’t evoke sadness’. That really fleshed out the hardest part of ensuring gender balance. For changing a habit takes work and to ensure both genders within our sexes have equal voice is the work of a lifetime. In this Kestoria Kavazi is to be congratulated however they still have plenty of work to do, to ensure their archive is user friendly with enough easily consumable information so one can revisit their site. 


n.b. this story was first published in the eastafrican newspaper with this link kestoria kavazi launch

BOOK REVIEW: ‘It Can’t Be True’ by John R.P. Mwakyusa

 For those of us living in the cities of East Africa, in the last three decades or so, it’s easy to forget the ingredients that qualify our nations as economically poor or what was crudely referred to as ‘third world’. In this novel by Mr. J. Mwakyusa threads are drawn to show how the middle class that captained the ships of our urbanization in East Africa. Are linked to humble beginnings rife with close ties to our histories rooted in a people recovering from severe abuse born of colonization & or slavery.

These heavy topics aren’t spread thick on this paperback of 124 pages; indeed this novel is relatable as it centers around four main characters. Albert, Sharon, Paul who take up most of the pages while Esther qualifies in this listing, as we’re also loosely but endearingly drawn in to her world. Together with enough characters in the periphery ‘It can’t be True’ makes for an interesting saga.

Albert now in his late thirties, is an orphan at the age of ten he witnessed the death of his parents in 1984. “Reaching there, he saw his parents’ bodies lying dead in a pool of clotting blood. He couldn’t stand that. His legs turned to jelly and could not support his small frail body.”-excerpt from It Can’t be True by J. Mwakyusa.

Albert is now a spy working for the government of Uganda, which in the novel also came into power through the National Resistance Army (NRA) in 1986. The novel’s locale is Uganda with a short spiel happening in Tanzania in the region of Ruvuma. Albert in this novel is tasked with investigating a murder of a prominent lawyer in Uganda which looks like a terrorist attack.  

His investigation is an integral part of the plot allowing us to know Sharon & Paul a couple at Makerere University pursuing their first degree. Paul is a Tanzanian who has won a scholarship to study there from his government, he thought he’d become a pastor but upon being chosen for this scholarship. “He abandoned his dream of becoming a pastor in order to pursue a degree in Electrical Engineering. Who could resist studying at the mighty Makerere University.” -excerpt from It Can’t be True by J. Mwakyusa. 

Sharon is pursuing medicine at this University; she has ties with Paul but as well Albert and the prominent lawyer who was murdered. The author in weaving their tale brings to light a love triangle that depicts honest scenarios of eligible women being ‘promiscuous’ for the sake of economic well being. He as well explores the hypocrisy of men falling in love while still pursing ‘in lust’ relationships with vigor.   

What is impressive about this novel written by a lecturer at the University of Dar es Salaam. Is the way in a simple tale the themes of illicit financial flows for East African nations; “”You have been employing children in your mining activities, and you have been using the XBC bank to wire all the mining proceedings to your bank accounts in Europe and the Cayman Islands- is all that true?”- It Can’t be True by J. Mwakyusa. The themes of the dangers of religious fanaticism and mental health are all aptly explored, which is great food for thought for our society. 

I found myself reading the novel to the end quickly which is always a good sign, on points of improvement. The plot could have been more tightly woven the stories don’t link so smoothly. I still highly recommend though as these novels from our locales richly affirm our identities. It Can’t Be True is published by Patridge and you can get your copy through Patridge Publishing

By Caroline Uliwa n.b. this article was first published by The EastAfrican Newspaper

Monday 23 May 2022

Local Arts NGO Asedeva launches new Home

From left Upendo Manase, Halima Masoud & Lilian Damas
showcasing 'Strong Woman'
a dance production in the Vinyago Series of ASEDEVA

It’s a notable milestone when an arts & cultural center mushrooms in Tanzania which is owned and run by artists. In fact in the nation’s most vibrant city of Dar es Salaam you can count these centers in one hand. Most cultural centers are extensions of foreign embassies like the Goethe Institute or Alliance Francais, the Russian Culture center etc. Or they are owned by cultural practitioners and or the government, seldom are these centers owned and run by artists themselves. 

Which is why there was cause for celebrations on the 4th of May when ASEDEVA-Art for Social and Economic Development for Africa an Arts nonprofit organization. Launched its headquarters in Kinondoni, Dar es Salaam this organization which started back in 2012 and was registered in 2014, works in dance, theatre and music productions. “We have always wanted to have our own space, to work without restrictions. So over the years we bought land in Mkuranga knowing one day we’ll build our permanent center there but this is a long term goal. We are so thankful now to have rented this space for ourselves which is close to the city but as well the local community here in Kinondoni.” Shaban Mugado executive of Asedeva (dancer, choreographer & musician) 

From right Director of ASEDEVA Isack Abeneko
with his colleague Ackley Mwalusamba sharing
the opening speech at the launch of their headquarters
in Kinondoni recently

At the launch were notable members of the cultural community including two representatives from BASATA-Tanzania National Arts Council, members from the French & Norwegian Embassies, persons from T-Africa dance crew, Nafasi Artspace, Action Music Academy as well fellow artists. The new headquarters of Asedeva feature an airy hall with long walls that can sit 350 people comfortably. With a makeshift stage under a Makuti thatch roof making it easily a setting for many an art production.

Mme Elizabeth Ngheye graced the launch from BASATA sharing. “On behalf of the Secretary General let me congratulate you. As our Hon President Mme Samia Suluhu is trying to push for art and tourism, now is the time for artists to shine. As you know we have the arts fund it is there and will be operating soon, so let us use this opportunity so we ensure art is a business…We believe you will go on to do great things our request to you and all artists is to use us. In the past our council didn’t have many workers but now we are enough with varied skills so use us.” Her colleague Mr. Joseph Mmbigo added that over the years Asedeva as a registered member of the council, has impressed them with their diligent efforts here he urged other art organization to emulate Asedeva’s zeal.

Currently Asedeva is the organization behind Marafiki Music Festival, now in its third year a product of their weekly gig ‘Marafiki Night Live’. The festival which for this year is scheduled for the 6-9th October in Dar es Salaam & Bagamoyo has gained the sponsorship of the French Embassy and Firefly Bagamoyo. It highlights music acts in traditiona & afro-fusion genres a sect which doesn’t get much mainstream airplay. Asedeva as well is the one behind Haba na Haba Dance Festival which is their longest running project, this year the festival which as well invites international contemporary & traditional dancers to perform will run from the 25th of July to the 30th of the same.

Anette Otilie Pettersen Embassy officer from
the Norwegian Embassy in TZ, shared
a few words at the launch of ASEDEVA
headquarters in Kinondoni DSM earlier
this month

 Asedeva is as well working on a production called ‘Vinyago’ involving multidisciplinary arts including theatre, dance & music, the piece questions aspect of the legacy of colonization in Tanzania. This production will be performed in Germany in November this year for a month circuit later to return to Tanzania in March 2023 to be performed in Dar, Mtwara & Bagamoyo. Answering on what drives Asedeva which has three top artist executives that are longtime friends Shaban Mugado, Ackley Mwalusamba & Isack Abeneko (the director). Isack had this to say “I would like art to have more power in the country, generally art has power. I am talking about art’s power to be the push for positive change and the bridge to notable solutions in the community. Art will always remain with an entertaining element but here at ASEDEVA our art also carries a message. Our productions tend to zoom in on specific challenges faired in our communities, political, colonial or social allowing for dialogue between differing perspectives and deeper introspection so as to inspire better living. ”

Mme Elizabeth Ngheye representation the
Secretary General of BASATA cuts the tape
to officially launch ASEDEVA headquarters
in Kinondoni, DSM early in May 2022

We were all happy to be given a taste of Asedeva productions, when Shabo Makota came on stage a crooner with a guitar he gave us a soothing acoustic performance with percussionist Chudo. We as well were shown snippets of performances from the Vinyago production in the form of dances with live music. The first performance was with male dancers Thomas Yusti, Isdory Cosmas and Eddison called ‘Utawala’. The second was with female dancers Halima Masoud, Upendo Manase and Lilian Damas titled ‘Strong Woman’ the last piece involved all these dancers and a few more. It was a modernized rendition of the traditional ‘ngoma’ Sindimba from the Makonde tribe of Tanzania & Mozambique. All the dancers were scintillating I particularly was very impressed by the dancer Halima Masoud her energy, extensions and passion were just palpable.

From left Shaban Mugado andAckley Mwalusumba
executives of ASEDVA sharing a
few words at the launch of their new offices.
It is a good thing that the local community in Kinondoni can see their peers going to work successfully as artists of various disciplines; for there’s prevailing myths that the arts are just a ‘hobby’ or worse yet some voodoo stints. It was Anette Otilie Pettersen from the Embassy of Norway that summed it up nicely “From the embassies side this is a really proud moment...The Norwegian Embassy in Dar esSalaam we support the Nafasi Artspace they are nurturing new talents for artists to grow, Asedeva has been trained and hosted by Nafasi. And today you are opening your own space so this is a whole circle of support unity and trust and I’m really proud of you.” You can follow up on the events of Asedeva IG by visiting their social media pages.

Article written by Caroline Uliwa  photos taken by Gitano I. Nyirabu

 n.b. this article was first published in the EastAfrican Newspaper 

Challenges of accessing good textbooks for Primary & Sec students in Tanzania

Written & Initially published in April 2019

The education system for pre-primary, primary to secondary public schools in Tanzania has seen significant changes in recent years, in particular the passing of the ‘Education Circular Letter No. 4 in 2014’. As well the introduction of the free education policy by our current President Dr John P. Magufuli, through ‘educations circular letter no 5 in 2015’. 

The changes in particular from Circular no 4 include; the eradication of several subjects for grade 1-3 narrowing them to the subjects’ reading, writing, arithmetic’ as well ‘art and games’. The eradication of multiple textbooks per subjects previously published by the private sector and regulated by EMAC, under the Ministry of Education.

To now Tanzania Institute of Education (TIE) being the sole publishers of a core ‘textbook’ per subject, with supplementary books and teaching aids supplied by private publishers with the vetting of the same done by TIE. As well other grades have seen significant changes to their syllabus.

This move however was met with apprehension from critics who felt that it would limit the diversity of sources of knowledge and the learners would have to deal with a reduction in intellectual diversity, especially in the event that the books have errors.

In a bid to find out how effective some of these changes have been in the last few years, visitations were made to eleven public schools (secondary and primary) from Iringa, Arusha and Dar es Salaam; where interviews were had with 36 teachers, who have recently taught in 13 public schools in regions to include Tanga and Kigoma in Tanzania.

Education

TAMISEMI 2017 indicates that pre-primary school enrollment has increased by 38%, primary school by 47% secondary school enrollment has risen to 80%+ of the chosen students, all this compared to years before the enactment of education circular no 5.

Still in the schools visited here teaching aids like computers, poster charts/maps and or projector screens didn’t exist. Most of the teachers have to be innovative in how they teach thus it’s the vital they receive textbooks and other affordable teaching aids for themselves and their students to be able to impart knowledge effectively. However in speaking with head teachers and teachers here they admit that they are facing serious challenges in this area. 

“When I taught in Ilala district since 2015, back then we received the new syllabus but for years weren’t getting any new books or teaching aids. We therefore taught using books and teaching aids from the old syllabus. When the inspectors came, they understood as they knew we weren’t sent appropriate teaching aids. To get a textbook at least for us teachers we’d buy from our own pockets. Even here at Mapambano we’ve received books but not for all the subjects. I know many teachers who then buy a copy from their own pockets,” shared Josefina S, Std 2 teacher, Kiswahili, Civics & English Mapambano primary school, Dar es Salaam.

“With regards to Pure Advance Mathematics we’ve not received any TIE textbook since 2015 for A level grades except for Basic Applied Mathematics. However last year they were returned following the mistakes found in them, “said Mfaume Jumanne A’ level teacher for Mathematics at Iringa Girls secondary school.

 “At Lugufu Boys Sec School since 2015 we received two batches of books from TIE. The first batch came with books mostly for O’ level in sets of two. We went through them and noticed several mistakes especially for English paper two. For instance in the form 2 history books, in the syllabus there’s a sub topic on ‘the slave model of production’ the textbook doesn’t cover it. There were many examples like this in that batch.

The second batch came with many A’ level books for paper one but subjects like geography for paper two; we had not received any textbooks till I left last year. For science subjects there were a few books made available but some schools in Kigoma didn’t get any...I think it’s good that we have these TIE books as core textbooks however the supplementary books are crucial. Here I have not seen enough textbooks,” said Mussa Bakari, A’ level & O’ level History teacher formerly at Lugufu Boys Secondary in Kigoma now at Salma Kikwete Sec School in Dar es Salaam.

“For grade six and seven since 2015 we haven’t received any new books, we are still using the old books as their syllabus hasn’t changed. It’s tricky as I use up to six books per subject to ensure I cover all that’s in the syllabus. I teach mathematics, the allocated textbook is this one ‘Hisabati kwa vitendo’ but it doesn’t cover all what’s in the syllabus. We don’t have enough books for the students at all, in the end it’s for us teachers to get a few copies. So we borrow from neighbouring private schools photocopy them either through school funds or our own then return.”-Dorah M. Mayagila Gangilonga Primary School Std 7 Math teacher, Iringa.

“Biology textbooks from TIE haven’t arrived since 2015, in 2017 we received chemistry textbooks, but last year they were taken back for their mistakes but then recently returned as is. Where we were told to use them but if we see mistakes then the teachers are to correct the same and teach accordingly, “- Furaha Myota, Chemistry & Biology teacher for O’level and A level grades at Iringa Sec School.


These schools are also grappling with under-staffing following the 2016 ‘fake certificates’ scandal that rocked the public servants sector and saw a good number of teachers fired. Not to mention that research also indicates that 7,743 teachers are reaching retirement age in 2018-19. Here teachers at Osunyai Primary School in Arusha recommend the addition of teachers; many of them are dealing with 130-147 students per stream.

A Std 2 teacher here for instance has to teach a stream of 147 students teaching all four subjects. The teachers added that the designated 30 minutes per class was too short, taking into account doing a physical class like home and hygiene. Where experiments and or sports are required just getting the students outside with props, ate more than half of allotted time.

Another suggestion the teachers gave was to look at older books those of ‘Juma na Rosa, Abunuasi’ sharing that these were appropriate and can be used by publishers in making new books. Unbeknowst they are recommending what the government has banned which is allowing private publishers to publish core textbooks. An increase in pay to match their workload was also expressed as a key issue for the teachers.

On the Single Text Book policy per subject

Welna an English teacher at Mugabe Sec School Dar es Salaam, felt that the single- textbook per subject policy was a very good idea. “In the past one school would take this book, the next this one, yet we’re all quizzed by one exam. This was cumbersome. To teach the new syllabuses some of us got training and taught others; also times when inspectors come they reinforce these teachings.”

Her sentiments were echoed by another English teacher Fatima M from Salma Kikwete Secondary, Dar es Salaam who felt that having one core textbook per subject, allowed teachers to ensure they gave their students what they would certainly be tested by in the final exams, 

The core textbook policy has also helped decrease the workload for the teachers. “In the past as teachers we would scourge various books to teach the content in the syllabus. It followed this school would use that book and the other that book. During the exams, some schools would pass more than others. At times you’d wonder did the examiners use the books that those schools which passed used or? With one core textbook that query is put to bed,said Tumwagile Mbughi A’ level Chemistry Teacher Iringa Girls Sec School, Iringa.

The reduction of subjects in the lower grades was also a welcomed move by the teachers interviewed in these schools. “They’re visible benefits to this new syllabus, the KKK (reading writing & arithmetic in Kiswahili) subjects have helped the lower grades reduce their subject workload. Allowing them to concentrate and get better results in their fundamental reading & math skills.” shared Rebecca Shoo, Std 1 teacher, Osunyai Primary School, Arusha.

“Some topics have been taken out of grade 4 like sexual reproduction now moved to grade 5 this is a good thing, it was introduced too early making it awkward for us teachers and parents. As well in STD six there’s now a topic on ARV’s, this is very timely as we have HIV victims in many of our classes. Where sadly many of them haven’t been given crucial information on their dosage; stemming from the taboo of the disease.” Hawa S.  Math, Kiswahili and Science teacher Mapambano Primary School, Dar es Salaam.

The major challenge for most teachers in the implementation of this once core textbook policy is the poor supply of these books and the errors being found in them, that have forced the government to recall some of them. Also prior to 2015 there was a fund sent to schools for the purchase of books, since the enactment of circular no 5 this was scrapped. It fetters that the schools visited here haven’t been able to purchase supplementary textbooks despite circular no 4 stipulating the supply of the same to schools.

In effect due to the irregularities with the effective implementation of the one core textbook policy some schools interviewed here, were surprised that they were supposed to use one core textbook per subject from TIE for their teaching. “We’re confused, there needs be a list on what is the core textbook for each subject many teachers still go buy the books that were ratified by EMAC… Let me just show you an example for Form 4 Kiswahili, the book we have from TIE is of the old syllabus. The book with the content from the new syllabus is from Oxford. It’s also true that if you ask me what is the core textbook for O’level English I will tell you it’s Oxford’s, as our school hasn’t received any from TIE,” shared Salome Nashengai, Kiswahili English teacher, Nshupo Sec School, Arusha.

Apart from paying out of pocket for the books they use, schools, like the case of Nshupo get supplementary textbooks through donors like USAID and Tumaini Children Foundation. Books from private publishers and older TIE textbooks (produced before 1992) are valued; “Thankfully we have a library I let students go and see the old books, many times they are the ones with better drawings or when you’re missing a topic from the new core textbooks, you find it in them,” Hawa S. Math, Kiswahili and Science teacher Mapambano Primary School, Dar es Salaam.

“The one textbook though helping the student and teacher in obtaining notes easily in the end it doesn’t help the teacher and student to make comparisons. Supplementary books used to help a student brush their analytical skills preparing them well for college. I think at the moment we’re concerned with quantities not quality in our education I say that because, even when they’re many books available at school.

A lot of students think it’s a waste of time to read them they’d prefer something straight forward giving them answers to exams. We’re forgetting to nourish their love for reading by perpetuating this spoon feeding culture. So they pass exams on the outside the system looks to be doing well but now when they get to university they’ll find it difficult. For they’d think they can take one book and write their research paper on that one alone!”shared the Head Master, Mugabe Sec School, Dar es Salaam.

Response from Private Publishers

Private publishers have fared great financial losses from these changes in policy. As since the enactment of circular no 4 of 2014, they have not received any tender from the government to publish supplementary books.

“These last few years have left many private publishers, booksellers in doldrums; we haven’t gotten any procurement from the government for books which were a major supplier… Many of us have had to lay off staff, give up bigger rental spaces squeeze ourselves in smaller corners times working at the warehouse. We are in hibernation but  we’re still pushing to get our books authenticated by TIE as books are made for years. There are at times 20 people involved in one textbook, something TIE is perhaps now appreciating as they’ve ventured into publishing, ”said Gabriel Kitua, head of Publishers Association of Tanzania (PATA) and CEO of GDY publicationscompany ltd.

“I worked at TIE for 12 years then I joined private publishing full time …when in 1991 the policy allowed for private publishers to publish textbooks as TIE was overwhelmed; there was a shortage of textbooks in the country. I remember in 1992 they brought us private publishers experts from Canada through CIDA. They stayed until 1999 monitoring and guiding our processes giving us advice until we were strong. Today the circular no 4, says our books are just supplementary even when they comply with the syllabus. Now for time immemorial the government has never bought supplementary books and true to form we haven’t gotten a tender to supply our books since 2014.

Yet I know of six or seven private publishers including myself who have over 40 years experience in publishing not just experience but training. ..[we] are adequately trained to publish yet our hands are tied,” shared Elibariki Moshi of MturePublishers . He has worked in education since the early 70’s helping to author a favored English textbook while he was with the TIE.

There is small rays of hope as earlier this year “TIE called us they sought to smooth the guidelines for accrediting education books. Something we’ve had issues with in the past. The process was very inclusive so we were happy as we have now produced a very good guideline for evaluating education books which starts from pre-school to tertiary education. The rest remains to be seen but this was a good step,” shared Elieshi Lema, director at E&D publishers Ltd.

From the Government

Efforts to speak to officials at The Tanzania Institute of Education (TIE) were futile. Initial contact was made with the Director General Dr Aneth Komba who briefly introduced us to Aisha Ghuhiya and Dr Jerome Machange both concerned with publishing of education books at TIE. Unfortunately she later cancelled further appointments, citing reasons beyond her control allowing for interviews only from July this year. Efforts to reach the ministry of education also hit a snag what with current offices change from Dar es Salaam to Dodoma region, resulting in difficult accessibility to its press office personnel.

Recommendations from Stakeholders

Several clear recommendations were made from the education stakeholders interviewed here to donor organizations, the government and general citizens. Many of the teachers expressed gratitude to this government for enforcing free education as they can see their communities valuing their work.

One teacher in particular commended the government for its on spot checks in schools, allowing for close follow ups ensuring education is administered . As well the introduction of youth education in schools to eradicate teen pregnancies; they recognized the efforts of newly constructed classrooms in many districts and are happy that their salaries’ are arriving on time.

Bearing in mind the last annual budget for education 2017/18 was 4.7 trillion Tshs (about 2 billion USD) a significant bump from the year 2015/16 whose budget was 101.3 billion Tshs (44 million USD). They wished to see more of this bump go to their own incentives. (More than half of the teacher’s interviewed here expressed no change in their salaries since 2015, despite inflation and an increase in their workload. Plus the work challenges they’re facing as outlined here).

To aid the ministry of education in saving costs, it was suggested that the ministry educates the education officers and their sub ordinates in each municipal where after they visit individual schools; so all the teachers are clearly informed of syllabus changes.

They also are pleading with the government that they be included in the discussions involving education policy adjustments; for they are the ones who implement the changes on the ground. Employment of more teachers and access to more resources is another issue; the teachers felt should be addressed urgently.

To avoid what they term as an epidemic of ‘parrot thinker’ citizens instead of ‘creative problem solvers’- characterized by students who only care about passing exams and not retaining knowledge. Private publishers and teachers have suggested allowing more textbooks into schools both accurate core textbooks and supplementary books. This call isn’t restricted to the government but as well private donors and parents. 

Teachers also expressed adding more relevant topics into the syllabus. Topics that are in tandem with industrialization as is the governments’ agenda. Here special education teachers’ for physically and mentally challenged students appealed for the return of ‘practical and theory education’ better known as ‘elimu ya nadharia na vitendo’. Which teaches practical skills like tailoring, cooking, agriculture, carpentry and or sculpting from primary school, “Special needs students would do so well with this type of education for even when they don’t get to university. Their education will be practical ensuring they won’t be a burden onto their families. Back in my time here in Iringa certain schools had different specialties, Utivile used to have a carpentry faculty while Kihesa was known for its tailoring wing.”said Nguvumali Rose, special education teacher Iringa Girls Sec, Iringa. 

Despite years since the implantation of these curriculum changes, it’s obvious that there still a lot to be done in terms of better integration between stakeholders both in the government and private sector to serve the best interest of the students. What’s more, it’s one of the major ways to meet the Tanzania’s Development vision 2025 which states that: “Education should be treated as a strategic agent for mind-set transformation and for the creation of a well-educated nation, sufficiently equipped with the knowledge needed to competently and competitively solve the development challenges which face the nation. In this light, the education system should be restructured and transformed qualitatively with a focus on promoting creativity and problems solving.”

Article written by Caroline Uliwa 

n.b. This article was first published on Swenga, with the sponsorship of a reporting grant from the Women in Media Network (WIMN) of the Graca Machel Trust.