Alikiba, Mwakinyo join Kariakoo rescue efforts

Dar es Salaam. Renowned Bongo Flava artist Ali Saleh Kiba famously known as Alikiba and professional boxer Hassan Mwakinyo on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, joined the rescue operations at the Kariakoo Market.

The tragedy came following the catastrophic collapse of a building that claimed at least 16 lives and wounded thousands of other citizens.

The celebrities who arrived at the scene separately demonstrated their support by actively participating in rescue efforts alongside members of the emergency teams.

Their participation involved assisting emergency team members in breaking the walls to create exit points for individuals trapped beneath the rubble.

Alikiba, the Utu hitmaker, arrived at the scene on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at 2 a.m. to observe and support the ongoing rescue operations.

Speaking to journalists, Alikiba commended the rescue teams' tireless and stressful work, demonstrating a sense of humanity.

"The work being done here is enormous, heartbreaking, and commendable. Without proper training in rescue operations, especially this nature of disasters, we risk causing more harm,” he said.

“There are still civilians trapped beneath who have been communicating with rescuers. This is not a joke to go viral on social media. I went inside and saw the reality. This is a serious issue that requires national attention,” he added.

He lauded the government and emergency teams for their unrelenting efforts, noting that gas, water, and glucose provisions to survivors are a commendable intervention.

He was echoed by his boxing star counterpart, Mr Mwakinyo who emphasised the need for Tanzanians to join hands of support during disasters.

“People can donate different items such as water, food, or milk during disasters. However, those contributions alone are less impactful that is why I have decided to visit the scene and witness the reality,” he said.

He added that some victims, including those who have lost their lives, had played significant roles in his personal and professional journey, arguing public figures to step up and support the community during tragedies.

“Let us visit the scenes and support the victims. Difficult times like this are the right moment for us to unite and support one another as the situation is extremely challenging contrasting what is depicted on social media,” he shared.

The country’s professional boxer criticised celebrities who use such tragedies for personal gain.

“Celebrities shouldn’t use such incidents to photo shoot, rather they should genuinely contribute and take responsibility,” he insisted.

Joining the efforts, the upcoming Bongo Flava artist Abigail Chams also appeared at the scene to support victims and display a gesture of solidarity.

The tragic incident has left the nation in mourning, with efforts ongoing to assist survivors and recover those still trapped.