By Adonis Byemelwa
ACT-Wazalendo Secretary-General Ado Shaibu has raised a red flag over the
embezzlement of funds intended for the Tanzania Social Action Fund (Tasaf), a
program designed to uplift impoverished households across the country.
Tasaf, the Tanzania Social Action Fund, is a critical initiative aimed at
alleviating poverty and enhancing the living conditions of Tanzania’s most
vulnerable communities. It provides direct cash transfers, material support,
and funding for community-driven development projects, including infrastructure
improvements, agricultural support, and social services.
By involving local communities in planning and execution, Tasaf ensures
that projects address actual needs and foster a sense of ownership. The program
also acts as a safety net during economic hardships, helping families maintain
basic living standards. As well, Tasaf monitors and evaluates its interventions
to ensure effectiveness and proper utilization of funds.
Addressing a crowd on August 7, 2024, in Rwamishenye ward, Bukoba
Municipality, Shaibu called on the government to initiate a thorough
investigation into the misuse of these essential funds, which are crucial for
the survival of Tanzania's most vulnerable citizens.
Shaibu, who has been touring various regions, noted with dismay that the
problem of Tasaf funds being siphoned off by corrupt officials is widespread,
not just in Bukoba but across the nation. He emphasized that the Tasaf program,
meant to alleviate poverty, has been hijacked by those in power, depriving the
intended beneficiaries of their rightful support.
"The poverty in Kagera, despite its rich resources, is astonishing.
The region should not continue to rank among the poorest in the country,"
Shaibu stated, questioning the effectiveness of the current leadership in
addressing these critical issues. He underlined the urgent need for
accountability and transparency in the management of public funds.
Leaders from ACT-Wazalendo in Bukoba echoed Shaibu’s concerns,
highlighting that corruption within the Tasaf program is only one of many
challenges facing the region. Evodiu Justinian, the regional chairman, pointed
out other pressing issues, including political favoritism in voter
registration, exorbitant taxes on small businesses, excessive roadblocks, and
mismanagement of Tasaf-funded development projects.
The fraudulent activities surrounding Tasaf funds have raised alarms not
only among the opposition but also among the general public, who are
increasingly disillusioned with the government's commitment to fighting
corruption.
While Prime Minister Kassim
Majaliwa has spoken out against corruption, critics argue that his efforts have
been undermined by a lack of decisive action, particularly from President Samia
Suluhu Hassan.
The phrase "kula kwa urefu wa
kamba yako" (eat according to the length of your rope), reportedly uttered
by the President, has been interpreted by some as tacit approval for officials
to engage in corrupt practices, as long as they do so discreetly.
This perception has had a crippling effect on the Prime Minister's
anti-corruption campaign, leaving many Tanzanians questioning the sincerity of
the government's stance on eradicating graft. The situation in Bukoba and other
regions demands a more aggressive approach from the opposition, with Shaibu and
his party leading the charge to demand accountability from the highest levels
of government.
As the 2025 elections approach, the fight against corruption is set to
become a defining issue that could determine the future direction of the
nation.
The opposition's resolve to hold the government accountable will play a
crucial role in shaping Tanzania’s political landscape, and the stakes could
not be higher. The question remains: Will the government take the necessary
steps to protect the most vulnerable, or will the culture of impunity continue
to thrive unchecked?