Diva and Niffer arrested over unauthorised fundraising for Kariakoo building tragedy
What you need to know:
- Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa, speaking on November 18, 2024, clarified that the government had not authorised any private fundraising efforts related to the incident.
Dar es Salaam. Radio personality Diva Malinzi, 36, and socialite Jenifer Jovin, 25, aka Niffer, are currently in police custody in Dar es Salaam for questioning regarding allegations of unauthorised fundraising for victims of the recent building collapse in Kariakoo.
The arrest was confirmed by Dar es Salaam Special Zone Police Commander, Jumanne Muliro, in a statement issued on Tuesday, November 19, 2024.
"Two suspects have been arrested and are being thoroughly questioned," the statement said.
"The arrested individuals are Diva Gissele Malinzi, 36, a resident of Mikocheni, who was arrested in Dar es Salaam, and Jenifer Jovin, 25, a resident of Salasala, Kinondoni, who was arrested in Dodoma and brought back to Dar es Salaam."
The police added that they would collaborate with other legal authorities to determine the next steps in the investigation.
The four- storey building in Kariakoo collapsed on Saturday, November 16, 2024, causing the deaths of 16 people and injuring more than 80 others.
Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa, speaking on November 18, 2024, clarified that the government had not authorised any private fundraising efforts related to the incident.
He stressed that all donations should be directed to an account set up by the Disaster Management Committee under the Prime Minister's Office.
Majaliwa specifically referenced businesswoman Jenifer Jovin, known as Niffer, who had reportedly raised more than Sh37 million for the victims.
He demanded an explanation from Niffer regarding the legitimacy of her fundraising activities.
“She must account for the funds she has raised, explain how they were used, and confirm whether she had authorisation to collect donations,” Majaliwa stated.
The government has called for all donations to be made through the official National Relief Fund (Account No. 9921159801) at the Bank of Tanzania to ensure transparency and proper management of the funds.
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the matter, and further actions will be taken as more information comes to light.
The government says its focus is to ensure that aid reaches the victims of the Kariakoo building collapse in a transparent and accountable manner.
