Samia says acts of sabotage behind Kariakoo calamities
What you need to know:
- The President made these remarks during a luncheon with the rescuers who were involved in the life-saving efforts following the collapse of a four-story commercial building on November 16, 2024.
Dar es Salaam. President Samia Suluhu Hassan has suggested that the recurring fires and building collapses at Kariakoo may not be mere accidents but acts of sabotage by unscrupulous traders attempting to evade taxation.
Speaking yesterday, President Hassan said that some businesspeople resorted to setting markets ablaze after authorities uncovered discrepancies in their financial declarations.
Her remarks seemed to reference the 2021 fire that gutted sections of Kariakoo Market, resulting in significant financial losses. “I have been to Kariakoo more than once. I have visited and given directives regarding issues with market leadership. Two days later after my first visit, the market was set on fire to destroy evidence, but with determination, we rebuilt it,” she said.
The President made these remarks during a luncheon with the rescuers who were involved in the life-saving efforts following the collapse of a four-story commercial building on November 16, 2024.
The tragedy claimed 31 lives and left 88 others injured. On the collapsed building, President Samia revealed that investigations found the structure was designed to support only 250 tonnes of cargo but was overloaded with 800 tonnes, raising suspicions that the excess goods may have been untaxed.
“The incident has been an eye-opener. One thing I quickly noticed was the ongoing dispute among Kariakoo traders regarding hidden, untaxed goods. When the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) sent inspectors to check warehouses, the building collapse exposed many irregularities,” she said.
The President emphasised that the government had drawn key lessons from the incident, particularly regarding emergency response systems and business operations in Kariakoo. She assured that long-term plans are in place to equip the country with better disaster management resources and expertise.
She commended the private sector’s role in rescue efforts and assured that the government will continue strengthening disaster response mechanisms.
Addressing traders' concerns over foreign businesses operating in spaces meant for Tanzanians, President Hassan directed the minister of Industry to resolve the issue. She also urged the TRA to ensure fair taxation for all businesses.
To tackle congestion in Kariakoo, exacerbated by small-scale traders occupying road spaces, the government plans to build a new market at Jangwani area. Some traders will be relocated there to improve traffic flow, and she called for cooperation from business operators.
Investigation findings
Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa disclosed that the investigation committee has completed its report and was finalising procedures to submit it to the President. During the inspection of the collapsed building, authorities discovered 850 tonnes of clothing, over Sh100 million in cash hidden in sand, and foreign currencies, including $48,498, KSh6,920, and 631 Chinese Yuan.
He confirmed that all recovered items had been returned to their rightful owners. “We appreciate everyone who played a role in the rescue efforts, and we thank you for standing with those affected,” he said.
Business community concerns
Kariakoo Business Community Chairman, Mr Severine Mushi, said that one of the major challenges during the building collapse was the difficulty of reaching the site due to narrow roads. While acknowledging progress in resolving various challenges in Kariakoo, he stressed that unfair competition between local traders and foreign businessmen remains a serious issue, threatening business growth and discouraging new investors.
