Police strategize to curb crime risks amid growing DITF crowds


By Alfred Zacharia

As tens of thousands prepare to attend the 49th Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (DITF), the Tanzania Police Force has announced heightened security measures to prevent criminal activity during the popular annual exhibition.

Dar es Salaam Special Zone Police Commander Jumanne Muliro said the growing volume of people at the event, which attracts both local and international participants, creates potential openings for criminals. 

However, he stressed that the police are well-prepared and have already deployed several crime-prevention strategies.

“Crowds provide opportunity for offenders, but as law enforcement, we have anticipated that. Regular patrols will be conducted inside and outside the grounds, and every entrance and exit will be tightly monitored,” said Commander Muliro. 

He was speaking during a capacity-building seminar organized by the Tanzania Trade Development Authority (TanTrade) for DITF participants on June 26.

Muliro said that beyond enforcement, the Police Force will work to educate exhibitors and visitors on safety protocols, while ensuring coordinated control of movement around the fairgrounds. 

He urged all participants to report suspicious activities and to be cautious about carrying unfamiliar or unverified items into the venue, warning against any materials that could pose an explosive threat.

“Exhibitors and visitors must respect the exhibition’s rules and security guidelines issued by the organizers. Immediate alerts should be raised to security officers in case of any threat. We all have a role to play,” he said.

Commander Muliro highlighted crowded zones such as entrance gates and common areas as high-risk and said they would receive extra security attention. He reiterated the importance of individual responsibility in complementing the police effort.

“Each person must act as a guard for the other. We can only achieve collective security if everyone adheres to the law,” he added.

The Commander emphasized that national development relies on peace and security, noting that without safe environments, investment, quality education, healthcare, and reliable infrastructure cannot flourish.

“There’s no meaningful development without security. A safe environment is the foundation of everything, business, education, health, and life itself,” said Muliro.

On her part, TanTrade Director General Latifa Khamis said the trade fair has become a major platform attracting global interest and urged exhibitors to prepare their pavilions with precision and creativity.

“This is Tanzania’s business face to the world. The appearance of each booth reflects not just the company, but the country. Use colour, clear branding, videos, and modern displays to make your presentation compelling,” she said.

Khamis noted that the international pavilion is a key attraction and is usually designed with national symbols, colours, and tourism imagery, often in partnership with global exhibition professionals. 

She encouraged exhibitors to use interactive technologies like QR codes and video demos, and to offer branded giveaways to engage visitors.

“Arrange your products and services clearly and attractively. Let your booth speak before you do,” she said.

Environmental concerns were also raised during the seminar. Senior Engineer from the National Environment Management Council (NEMC), Haji Kiselu, cautioned exhibitors against creating noise pollution.

“Noise is not just disruptive—it’s a health hazard. Let’s manage the music and speaker volumes at our booths to protect both people and the environment,” said Kiselu.

The DITF, commonly known as Sabasaba, is one of the largest trade showcases in East Africa, drawing businesses, investors, and policy makers from across the continent and beyond. 

With crowds growing each year, this edition is expected to be the busiest yet, making security readiness not just a public safety priority but a prerequisite for the event’s success.

“The more secure the environment, the more vibrant the trade,” Muliro concluded. “Let us all contribute to a safe, productive, and successful exhibition.”

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