Residents of Masonga Village in Rorya District have regained ownership of their primary school following the resolution of a long-running dispute with the Catholic Church, in a move expected to strengthen community involvement in the management of local education services.
The settlement was reached during a public meeting attended by Rorya District Commissioner Stanslaus Shing’oma Mabula, who was on a tour of development projects in Tai and Bukula wards in Nyancha Division.
Mr Mabula thanked the Catholic Church for agreeing to return Masonga Primary School to the community, describing the decision as an important step towards strengthening cooperation between religious institutions and residents.
The dispute had remained unresolved for a long time, making its settlement a significant development for the village.
However, the district commissioner's visit also exposed continuing demands for improved social services, including healthcare and reliable water supply, with the government pledging support for projects intended to address some of the challenges.
In Bukula Ward, Mr Mabula inspected the construction of Bubombi Dispensary, a community-driven project that requires approximately TZS50 million to complete.
He assured residents that the government would support efforts to finish the facility, which is expected to improve access to basic healthcare services once operational.
The project highlights the role of community contributions in expanding social infrastructure, although its completion will depend on the mobilisation of the remaining funds.
Mr Mabula also inspected the TZS3.6 billion Bubombi water project, implemented by the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (Ruwasa), which had reached 75 per cent completion.
Upon completion, the project is expected to provide clean and safe water to more than five wards and at least 12 villages.
The scale of the project makes its timely completion important for households that continue to face challenges accessing reliable water services.
Mr Mabula directed government officials responsible for supervising development projects to strengthen monitoring and ensure that construction work is completed within the planned timelines.
In Masonga Village, Tai Ward, he also inspected a fish farming initiative involving cage fish farming, fingerling production, fish egg production and the manufacture of fish feed.
The initiative is intended to support aquaculture activities, while creating opportunities for income generation among residents. He also visited the Masonga Marine Centre.
During a public meeting in Tabache Village, Bukula Ward, Mr Mabula listened to residents' concerns and addressed issues raised by the community.
He urged residents to work with security authorities to maintain peace and safety, take precautions against heavy rains associated with El Niño conditions and observe environmental cleanliness.
He also encouraged residents to enrol in the Universal Health Coverage system, saying health insurance would help protect households from the financial burden of medical treatment.
Mr Mabula said the government, under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, remained committed to addressing development challenges in Rorya through cooperation with elected representatives and local communities.