The Mbeya District Council has described the election of its Chairperson, Aida Haule, as Vice Chairperson of the Association of Local Authorities of Tanzania (ALAT) for Mbeya Region as a major gain for citizens and local development.
Haule, who is also the Councillor for Utengule Usongwe Ward, won the position during an election held on January 27, 2026, defeating the Chairperson of Chunya District Council, Kelvin Shishi.
Her victory has been welcomed by council leaders and residents as a step that will strengthen service delivery and representation of citizens’ interests.
Speaking to journalists, Mbeya District Executive Director (DED), Ms. Erica Yegella, congratulated Haule and said her election will help the council push forward development projects that directly benefit wananchi.
“As a council, we are very proud of Hon. Aida. Her election is a big encouragement to us and to the people we serve. ALAT plays a key role in supporting local governments to improve financial management, implement development projects and address citizens’ needs. Having our chairperson in this leadership position is an opportunity for Mbeya District to move faster in development,” said Yegella.
She explained that the council is implementing projects in important sectors such as water supply, health services and education, and strong leadership at the regional ALAT level will help ensure these projects respond to real community priorities.
“I am proud to work with a knowledgeable and committed chairperson. In Mbeya Region, she is the only female council chairperson among the seven councils. Winning this position is not only personal success but also an honour to our council. As the accounting officer, I will continue to work with discipline and integrity to support her leadership for the benefit of citizens,” Yegella added.
The newly elected ALAT Vice Chairperson for Mbeya Region, Hon. Aida Haule, said she will use the position to strengthen cooperation among councillors from all seven councils in the region, with a clear focus on improving services to the people.
“This position gives us a strong platform to present council challenges and priorities from the district level up to the national level. I have taken this responsibility seriously. I will work closely with all councillors and with our Regional ALAT Chairperson, Dour Mohamed, who is also the Mayor of Mbeya City, to ensure wananchi benefit from our decisions,” said Haule.
Citizens have also expressed optimism about her election. Elizabeth John, a resident of Mbalizi, said Hon. Haule’s success brings pride to Mbeya District and inspires women across the region.
“This is a big honour for us. She has represented women well. Being the only female chairperson in the region and now becoming Vice Chairperson of ALAT Region shows progress. We also have a hardworking female district director, so we believe our council leadership is strong and focused on development,” she said.
Residents expect Haule’s new role to strengthen Mbeya District Council’s voice in regional and national discussions and to translate leadership decisions into better services and improved livelihoods for citizens.