One of Tanzania’s most celebrated broadcast journalists, Baruan Muhuza, has officially entered the political arena by collecting nomination forms to contest the Kigoma Urban parliamentary seat under the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) in the upcoming General Election.
Muhuza, widely known for his distinguished career in media, picked up the forms this morning at the CCM District Office in Ujiji, marking a significant moment in the local political landscape as he seeks to translate decades of public engagement into legislative action.
His move comes shortly after CCM opened the nomination window for parliamentary, council, and representative seats across the country, ushering in a wave of aspirants aiming to serve under the party’s banner.
Speaking to reporters moments after completing the nomination process, Muhuza said his ambition is rooted in a desire to continue the positive trajectory of development in Kigoma Urban while introducing a new wave of ideas and energy.
“The outgoing MP has done commendable work, and I have nothing but respect for him,” Muhuza said. “However, everything evolves in stages. This is the moment for fresh thinking, renewed civic momentum, and greater citizen-centered engagement through the office of the MP.”he added
He emphasized that public service requires a deep sense of purpose, readiness, and acceptance by the people. “After observing from the sidelines for the past five years and giving others a chance, I believe it’s now time to contribute actively and push Kigoma Urban forward,” he noted.
Among his priorities, Muhuza highlighted youth empowerment, job creation, and economic transformation through better utilization of local resources especially Lake Tanganyika.
“We must begin to view Lake Tanganyika as an engine of economic opportunity. Through proper planning, we can unlock its potential to benefit our people, particularly the youth,” he said.
Muhuza also expressed strong support for the “Building a Better Tomorrow” (BBT) initiative championed by President Samia Suluhu Hassan, urging young people in Kigoma to embrace modern agriculture.
He pointed out that while many still associate the BBT program with test plots in Dodoma, it is now being mainstreamed nationwide through local authorities.
“Kigoma is rich in arable land Rwiche Valley is just one example. The region can thrive through smart agriculture and strategic planning,” he said.
In terms of economic diversification, Muhuza acknowledged the rapid infrastructural progress taking place in Kigoma, including the construction of a regional referral hospital, multiple technical colleges, and the establishment of manufacturing plants for cement, roofing sheets, and mattresses.
“These projects are not just signs of growth; they are opportunities. The question is, are we ready to take advantage of them?” he posed.
On infrastructure and transport, he praised government efforts to revitalize maritime transport across Lake Tanganyika, citing ongoing renovations of MV Liemba and MV Mwongozo, as well as the planned construction of a brand-new state-owned vessel.
“Logistics across the lake are improving. This means better access to markets and mobility for our people. We must position ourselves to benefit,” Muhuza stated.
He also turned his attention to the fishing sector, urging a shift from subsistence fishing to a more industrialized model.
“For too long, our fishermen have been associated with poverty. But fishing can be a highly profitable industry if we invest in modern tools and techniques,” he argued.
Citing the success of the now-defunct Yoro Group in the past, he called for renewed investment in the fisheries sector and pledged to mobilize forums that attract investors to Kigoma.
“Congo, Zambia, and Burundi are successfully exploiting their fishing zones. Kigoma has the same potential. We just need to be bold enough to seize it,” he added.
Muhuza’s entry into the race is already generating buzz, with many viewing his blend of grassroots connection, national recognition, and reformist agenda as a potentially powerful force in Kigoma Urban’s political future.
With a campaign anchored in continuity, innovation, and inclusive development, Baruan Muhuza says his vision is clear: “To serve with integrity, inspire hope, and open new frontiers of opportunity for the people of Kigoma.”
