TANGA: DEVELOPMENT projects worth more than 27.7bn/- will be inspected, inaugurated and launched during the 2026 Uhuru Torch race in Tanga Region, which begins today as the national torch enters the region from Morogoro.
A total of 73 projects will be visited during the 12-day relay, including 34 projects where foundation stones will be laid, 26 projects to be officially opened or launched, 11 youth economic empowerment projects to be inspected and two water sector projects.
Speaking to journalists on Monday, Tanga Regional Commissioner Ambassador Dr Batilda Burian said the projects have a combined value of 27.76bn/-, with funding provided by wananchi, local government authorities, the central government and development partners.
According to her, wananchi contributed more than 300m/-, local councils 1.28bn/-, the central government 10.7bn/- and development partners 15.48bn/-.
Dr Burian said the inspection of 11 youth economic empowerment projects will highlight the region’s efforts to address unemployment by creating opportunities for young people through entrepreneurship and productive economic activities.
The Uhuru Torch was received yesterday at Mji Mpya Primary School grounds in Mtoro Village, Tunguli Ward, Kilindi District, before traversing all 11 local government authorities in the region. T
he torch will cover a total distance of 1,340 kilometres before being handed over to Kilimanjaro Region on June 28 at Hedaru Primary School grounds.
She said this year’s relay will also place special emphasis on public participation in line with the 2026 theme, “Let Tanzanians Unite for Development; Peace, Unity and Solidarity Belong to Us All”.
Unlike previous years, residents from different groups, including government leaders, public servants, religious leaders, women, youths and persons with disabilities, will be given an opportunity to participate in carrying the Uhuru Torch.
“We want wananchi themselves to participate in carrying the torch as a practical demonstration of the unity and solidarity promoted by this year’s message,” Dr Burian said.
She added that the region has launched an extensive public awareness campaign through the media, village meetings and public notice boards to encourage mass participation.
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Apart from inspecting development projects, the Uhuru Torch will continue educating the public on the fight against corruption, malaria, HIV/AIDS, drug abuse and the importance of proper nutrition.
Dr Burian called on residents across the region to turn out in large numbers to welcome and accompany the torch at reception points, project sites and overnight events.
She said entertainment programmes involving musicians and cultural groups have also been organised to ensure communities actively participate in the celebrations.