Kagera Regional Commissioner Fatma Mwassa receives the Uhuru Torch to launch regional DRC.Photo: Courtesy
By Mutayoba Arbogast
Kagera-The Uhuru Torch Rally officially kicked off September 22, 2024, in Kagera region, led by Regional Commissioner Fatma Mwassa in Kalenge village, Biharamulo district. The rally is set to cover 1,191 kilometers across eight district councils in the Kagera region, including Biharamulo, Muleba, Bukoba, Missenyi, Kyerwa, Ngara, Karagwe, and Bukoba municipal.
During the launch, Mwassa expressed gratitude to President Samia Suluhu Hassan for the numerous development projects in the region that the Uhuru Torch will visit. She praised the rally team for their commendable efforts and wished them a successful stay in Kagera.
The torch will lead the inspection and evaluation of 55 projects, including laying foundation stones, with a total value exceeding 54.7 billion Tanzanian shillings funded by the government and development partners. In Biharamulo District Council alone, the torch inspected seven development projects, two of which involved laying foundation stones, amounting to a combined value of 1.761 billion shillings.
The event symbolizes unity and development as the torch travels across Kagera, bringing attention to ongoing projects and community engagement. Mwassa's leadership and enthusiasm set the tone for a rally that promises to inspire and uplift the local communities throughout the region.
Godfrey Eliakimu Mnzava, head of the Uhuru Torch races, along with five national runners, is promoting the 2024 theme that encourages Tanzanians to conserve the environment and actively participate in local government elections for a sustainable future.
As well, the rally has been disseminating important messages on various social issues, including corruption, HIV/AIDS, malaria, drug use, and nutrition. Nighttime celebrations are taking place at CCM grounds in Biharamulo town, bringing the community together to engage in these critical discussions.