Small-scale traders, popularly known as machinga, in Kinondoni District, Dar es Salaam, have reaffirmed their commitment to peace and national stability, stating that they will not participate in the planned demonstrations scheduled for July 7, 2026.
Speaking on June 15, 2026, the traders said their focus remains on protecting their businesses, livelihoods, and the peaceful environment that enables them to earn an income and support their families.
They also distanced themselves from what they described as online mobilisation efforts allegedly driven by individuals outside the country, warning that such campaigns could mislead young people and small traders into actions that may harm their economic activities and disrupt public order.
The statement was made by the Deputy Chairperson of Machinga in Kinondoni District, Ms. Palejia Michael Mushi, who emphasised that traders have chosen peace, unity, and responsible engagement over confrontation.
Ms. Mushi said machinga understand the importance of stability in their daily work and urged fellow traders across the country to avoid being influenced into activities that could jeopardise their livelihoods.
“We are encouraging all machinga in Kinondoni and Tanzania at large to remain focused on their businesses and avoid being misled into demonstrations that may end up affecting our income and peace,” she said.
She added that small traders acknowledge and appreciate the government’s continued engagement with their concerns, noting that President Samia Suluhu Hassan has remained open to dialogue with various social and economic groups, including informal traders.
According to her, this engagement has contributed to improved understanding between government and traders, allowing challenges to be addressed through consultation rather than confrontation.
“Our priority is peace and development. We believe in dialogue as the right way to solve challenges. We thank the government for listening to us and for continuing to support small traders,” she added.
The traders further called on their fellow machinga across Tanzania to remain vigilant and avoid being influenced by individuals or groups pursuing personal interests under the guise of activism.
They stressed that unity and cooperation are key to safeguarding both economic activities and national harmony.
They also encouraged young people to prioritise productive activities, entrepreneurship, and legal channels of engagement when addressing concerns, saying such approaches help build a stronger and more stable society.
The Kinondoni machinga concluded by reaffirming their commitment to peace, saying they will continue to support efforts aimed at maintaining stability and fostering development in their communities and the country at large.
