Tanzania, Dar es Salaam , Serengeti , Ngorongoro , Mikumi , Zanzibar

Volunteer - Tanzania - The Experience of a Lifetime

2010-10-01T06:44:00.001-07:00

There are a number of charities that provide first class "volunteer Tanzania" opportunities. Set up to fight poverty and working mainly in rural Tanzania, they offer volunteers the chance to build and renovate schools, work on school farms, teach English and a lot more!

There is a strong reason to volunteer. Tanzania is one of the poorest countries in Africa and the majority of people live on far less than $1 per day. Tanzania is also a safe and politically stable country, united by the common language of Swahili, and populated by welcoming people who are keen to develop themselves and their communities.

Typically, small development charities will work directly on the ground in rural communities, helping those communities meet the development challenges that the communities themselves have identified.

A popular area for support that many communities identify is education. Schools tend to be a hub in their communities, and a charity that builds and renovates community schools can have a big impact. Of course, education is a key requirement for any country to develop, and having a proper classroom for the students to learn attentively is essential.

Self-help is an important factor in a well run charity programme. Going back to our school building example, typically a community would have to contribute to the work in a pre-agreed manner, e.g. dig foundations or make bricks. The charity then provides the cement, steel, wood etc and the finance to put local labour to work thus ensuring the money gets to where it is most needed. This where participants in a Volunteer Tanzania programme often first get to work!

But the construction of schools and classrooms is only a part of a communities needs. Many charities also offer a number of other opportunities for volunteers to get involved.

Some typical activities include:

- English language courses for the teachers

- HIV / AIDS awareness programmes (8% of pop. HIV positive);

- Hygiene and wellbeing courses

- Developing local income generation schemes...

- Developing school farms and school feeding programmes...

For those interested in "Volunteer Tanzania!" programmes, here are a few questions you should ask that will help you find volunteering opportunities that are well thought out and designed to benefit the communities as well as the volunteer.

1. Has the charity undertaken any baseline surveys to measure the impact of their work?

2. Does the charity provide its volunteers with a specific project to complete in the time they are in Tanzania?

3. Does the charity properly brief and supervise its volunteers?

4. Do previous volunteers have anything positive to say about their experiences?

If you can answer these questions to your satisfaction and find a good charity to volunteer with, you'll have the joy of seeing how your hard earned contribution is spent to the betterment of a community.

With the right volunteer Tanzania programme, you'll find yourself working alongside individuals as part of a team, as well as interacting with children and the wider community. You'll be helping them practice their English, playing football and netball and exposing them to the wider world. In return they will teach you Swahili, drumming and dancing and provide you with lifelong and positive lessons that you will never forget.

We are Livingstone Tanzania Trust! If you want to "Volunteer Tanzania!" why not sign up for our FREE newsletter? Watch our video at http://www.livingstonetanzaniatrust.com/index.php?page=volunteeringintanzania to see how you can make a difference!

New Personal Income Tax Rates Tanzania

2010-08-02T02:50:00.000-07:00

Tanzania Revenue Authority released the New Personal Income Tax Rates for Individuals applicable effective 1st of July, 2010. The new rates as TRA claims will reduce the lowest tax rate for resident individuals from 15% to 14 %.

The new rates are as follow:-

Dar es Salaam to host 20th World Economic Forum on Africa

2010-05-02T08:11:00.000-07:00

Dar es Salaam is all set to host the 20th World Economic Forum on Africa from 5th to 7th of May, 2010. A record number of participants from 85 countries will be participating in this event. The event will be held at the famous Milimani City Conference Centre.

This is a huge opportunity for Tanzania to showcase their immense resources and lure foreign investors to this country.

The event will be co-chaired by:
Ajai Chowdhry, Founder, HCL; Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, HCL Infosystems, India
Kuseni Douglas Dlamini, Chief Executive Officer, Old Mutual, South Africa
Pat Davies, Chief Executive, Sasol, South Africa
Joergen Ole Haslestad, President and Chief Executive Officer, Yara International ASA, Norway
Anna Tibaijuka, Undersecretary-General and Executive Director, United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-HABITAT), Nairobi

Subtitled, Rethinking Africa's Growth Strategy, the agenda for the meet will discuss key issues like; Building Effective Institutions and Governance Structures, Fostering Sustainable Growth and Development, Managing Risk as Opportunity, Fostering and Empowerment Mindset.

For more information on the event please visit World Economic Forum Website at http://www.weforum.org

Television and Radio Stations in Tanzania

2010-04-29T07:58:00.001-07:00

The electronic media scenario in Tanzania is at a very infant stage in comparison to the world scenario. There are various factors to it. Competencies, skilled people, freedom of press, lack of training institutions are some of them. However, there are quite a number of television & radio stations in Tanzania.

Notable of them in TV stations are; Star TV, ITV, TBC 1 the State television, Channel 10 who have a National presence. TBC is considered to have the most coverage in the country, followed closely by Star TV. ITV, Channel 10 are considered to have a lower coverage. With the introduction of various DTH (Direct to Home) services like DSTV the scenario is fast changing in the urban areas.

Unlike in other countries where individual agencies are there to measure effectiveness of TV & Radio stations for advertisers, Tanzania falls way behind. Synovate, the erstwhile Steadman, comes up with TAMPS (Tanzania All Media ------- Survey) every year. The report however does not cover all aspect of a Media survey. It's more of a snapshot of the overall scenario of TV, Radio, Outdoor & Print media. GRPs & TRPs are not available for TV. Hence, media planners rely heavily on the TAMPS for their media buying.

In Radio stations, there are quite a number of them. Notable are RFA (Radio Free Africa), Radio One, Clouds FM, EA Radio, Times FM, Kiss FM, TBC Taifa, TBC FM, Magic FM, Uhuru FM, Triple A, Sauti ya Tanzania Zanzibar and numerous community radio stations. The big players in the national scenario are RFA (Radio Free Africa), TBC Taifa, TBC FM, Kiss FM, Radio One.

House Rent in Dar es Salaam

2010-04-24T13:33:00.000-07:00

Since I wrote last about Cost of Living in Dar es Salaam, things have changed. House rents have shot up in Dar. A fully furnished 2 BHK apartment will cost you about $1800 to $3000 in and around the city. Rents are however lower in the semi urban areas, but be prepared to spend most of your time inside your car in traffic jams. Another issue would be safety. Apartments are that way much safer. But, there are no major safety issues in Dar. There are several high rises coming up in the City Centre, but to surprise, rents are still not competetive.

If budget is not a constraint for you,, Oyster Bay, Msasani Peninsula area should be a good choice. Most Foreign Embassies are located in this area. Budget $3000 to $6000 approx.

The other way is to take an old house and get it renovated yourself. But be sure to check out the overall condition of the house before you sign a contract. In most cases contracts are signed for a year or more and contract amounts are advance rent for a year.

The best way to get a house is to contact a real estate agent or an freelance agent. Generally they will charge you for their service to show you the apartments or houses. The charges can vary from $5 to $30 for a visit. Once you sign a contract through the agent, you will pay a further commission of one month's rent to the agent.

Here are some online resources which might be of help to find a house in Dar es Salaam

Tanzania Music

2009-03-15T02:57:00.000-07:00

Tanzanian Music is greatly influenced by a mix of African music and that of ancient eastern trading routes like Middle East.

The influence of African music and Middle East music in Tanzanian music can be seen in their use of various musical instruments that are used by many Tanzanian, especially in the coastal areas of Zanzibar. It is believed that Taarab, which is sung in the coastal regions of Tanzania, is a perfect example of Middle East and African Music marriage.

If You Would Like To Know More About Tanzania Music Click Here To Buy A Book On Tanzania Music

Of late Bongo Flava a new genre music is becoming more and more popular nowadays. A form of hip hop, Bonga Flava this Tanzanian Music is a combination of Kswahilli and English in the lyrics. One can listen to the domination of this form of music on Radio, TV and Music shops across Tanzania. Several Bonga Flava performing groups are active in various parts of Tanzania. Some very well known Bongo Flava artists in Tanzania music platform are the famous Juma Nature, Professor Jay and Dully Sykes. Various younger bands have also started offering new Bongo Flava songs recently.

As mentioned earlier “Taarab” is another famous Tanzanian Music form. This form of Tanzanian music is very popular in the coastal regions of Tanzania like Zanzibar. Taarab is highly influenced by various cultures down history. Mostly sung by females, a Taarab song is sung for a lengthier time. With the rise in Bongo Flava music there are active groups involved to support and protect this indigenous form of Tanzanian music.

In addition there are other traditional Tanzanian music which are performed by various tribes and people.

Listen to Taarab Music
Listen to Bongo Flava

What are the Income Tax Rates in Tanzania ? | Tanzania Income Tax Rates

2008-12-17T02:06:00.000-08:00

For all those who are looking for Income Tax Rates of Tanzania; here is the link.

Click Here for Current Income Tax Rates in Tanzania
report broken link

Personal Income Tax rates have changed effective 1st of July 2010, please click here for new rates.

Tanzania Embassies / High Commissions/ Consulates / Offices Abroad

2008-12-16T02:30:00.000-08:00

Here is a list of Tanzania Embassies / High Commissions / Consulates / Offices abroad.

Tanzanian Consulate in Luanda, Angola
Consulate of Tanzania in Angola

City: Luanda
Phone: +244-2-331831
Email: 104663.1074@compuserve.com

Tanzanian Consulate in Perth, Australia

Consulate of Tanzania in Australia
c/o Murcia and Associates, Barristers and Solocitors, Level 25, QVI Building
250 St Feorge's Terrace
City: Perth
Phone: +61-8-9322-6223
Fax: +61-8-9322-6522

Tanzanian Consulate in Sydney, Australia

Consulate of Tanzania in Australia
c/o Denes Ebner Lawyers, 32A Oxford Street
City: Sydney
Phone: +61-2-9332-4944
Fax: +61-2-9332-3902

Tanzanian Consulate in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Consulate of Tanzania in Bangladesh
53/2 dit Extension ROAD, Naya Polton, Dhaka 1000
City: Dhaka
Phone: (+880-2)-83-6203 / 41-9299 / 41-3997
Email: Interact@bangla.net

Tanzanian Embassy in Brussels, Belgium

Embassy of Tanzania in Belgium
363 Avenue Louise,
1050 Brussels, Belgium
City: Brussels
Phone: (32-2) 640- 6500, 640- 6527, 647-6749
Fax: (27-12) 646-8026

Tanzanian Embassy in Ottawa, Canada

Embassy of Tanzania in Canada
50 Range Road
Ottawa, Ontario KIN 8J4, Canada
City: Ottawa
Phone: (613) 232 1500 /232-1509
Fax: (613) 232 5184
Email: tzottawa@synapse.net

Tanzanian Embassy in Beijing, China

Embassy of Tanzania in China
No. 53 Dong Liu Jie
Beijing, China
City: Beijing
Phone: (86-1) 532-1419 532-1491, 532-1719

Tanzanian Embassy in Kinshasa, Congo-Democratic Republic of

Embassy of Tanzania in Congo
142 Boulevard 30 Jin B. P. 1612
City: Kinshasa
Fax: (0982) 21400

Tanzanian Consulate in Otterup, Denmark

Consulate of Tanzania in Denmark
Klintebjerg vej 105
City: Otterup
Phone: +45-64822702
Fax: +45-64822157
Email: anni@post7.tele.dk

Tanzanian Embassy in Cairo, Egypt

Embassy of Tanzania in Egypt
9, Abdel Hamid Loutfy, Street
Dokki-Cairo, Arab Republic
City: Cairo
Phone: (20-2) 3374286, 704446, 346017
Fax: (20-2) 704446
Email: tanrepcairo@infinity.com.eg

Tanzanian Embassy in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Embassy of Tanzania in Ethiopia
P. O. Box 1077, Addis Ababa,
City: Addis Ababa
Phone: (251-1) 511063, 612904, 518155

Tanzanian Embassy in Paris, France

Embassy of Tanzania in France
13 Avenue Raymond, Pointcare,
75116 Paris, France
City: Paris
Phone: (+33) 1 53 70 63 66
Fax: (+33) 1 47 55 05 46
Web Site: http:// www.amb-tanzanie.fr
Email: ambtanzanie@wanadoo.fr
Office Hours: The Visa Department is opened Mondays to Fridays from 10H00 to 13H00.

Tanzanian Embassy in Berlin, Germany

Embassy of the United Republic of Tanzania in Berlin, Germany
11 14050 Berlin
(Charlottenburg, westend) Germany
P.O. Box 191226 14002 Berlin
City: Berlin
Phone: (+49) 0228-358051
Web Site: http://www.tanzania-gov.de/

Tanzanian Embassy in New Delhi, India

Embassy of Tanzania in India
10/1 Sarv Priya Vihar,
New Delhi 110016, India
City: New Delhi
Phone: (91-11) 6853046-7, 6968409, 6968406-7
Fax: (91-11) 6968410
Email: tanzrep@del2.vsnl.net.in

Tanzanian Embassy in Rome, Italy

Embassy of Tanzania in Italy
Viale Cortina d' Ampezzo, 18
City: Rome
Phone: +39-6-33485801
Fax: +39-6-33485828
Email: info@embassyoftanzania.it

Tanzanian Consulate in Rome, Italy

Consulate of Tanzania in Italy
Via Cesare, Beccaria 88
City: Rome
Phone: +39-6-36005234 / +39-6-32651471
Fax: +39-6-3216611
Email: tanzarep@pcg.it

Tanzanian Consulate in Milan, Italy

Consulate of Tanzania in Italy
Via Santa Sofia 12
City: Milan
Phone: +39-2-58307534 / +39-2-258307126
Fax: +39-2-58307499

Tanzanian Embassy in Tokyo, Japan

Embassy of Tanzania in Japan
21-9, Kamiyoga 4, Chome Setagaya - Ku
Tokyo 158, Japan
City: Tokyo
Phone: (03) 425 4531/3
Fax: (008133) 425 7844

Tanzanian Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya

Embassy of Tanzania in Kenya
Taifa Road Re-insurance Plaza, 9th Floor
City: Nairobi
Phone: (+254-2)-331056 / 331057 / 331104
Fax: +254-2-218269
Email: tanzania@user.africaonline.co.ke

Tanzanian Embassy in Maputo, Mozambique

Embassy of Tanzania inMozambique
Ujamaa House, P. O . Box 4515, Maputo, Mozambique
City: Maputo
Phone: 263-4) 721870, 722627,882265
Fax: (263-4) 724172
Email: safina@zebra.uem.mz

Tanzanian Consulate in Amsterdam, Netherlands

Consulate of Tanzania in Netherlands
H.A. Van Karnebeeklaan 46
City: Amsterdam
Phone: +31-20-6416060
Fax: +31-20-180319158

Tanzanian Consulate in Abuja, Nigeria

High Commission of Tanzania in Abuja, Nigeria
15, Yedseram Street, Maitama
PMB 5125, Wuse
Abuja
Nigeria
City: Abuja
Phone: (+234) 9 4132313/12
Fax: (+234) 9 4132314
Email: tanabuja@lycos.com

Tanzanian Embassy in Lagos, Nigeria

Embassy of Tanzania in Nigeria
8 Agoro Odiyan Street, Victoria Island
City: Lagos
Phone: +234-1-613604
Fax: +234-1-610016 / +234-1-618908

Tanzanian Consulate in Seoul, North Korea

Consulate of Tanzania in North Korea
C/O Hyundai Corporation, Hyundai Building 2F 140-2, Kye - dong Chrongro-ku
City: Seoul
Phone: +82-2-7446-1172
Fax: +82-2-746-1093

Tanzanian Consulate in Ruwi, Oman

Consulate of Tanzania in Oman

City: Ruwi
Phone: +968-607055
Fax: +968-600970

Tanzanian Consulate in Manila, Philippines

Consulate of Tanzania in Philippines
c/o Inter- Travel & Tour,Inc, 657 San Andres Street Malate
City: Manila
Phone: +63-2-2532207
Fax: +63-2-5216498

Tanzanian Embassy in Moscow, Russia

Embassy of Tanzania in Russia
Pyatnitskaya, Ulitsa 33
Moscow, Russia
City: Moscow
Phone: 231 8126, 231 5431
Email: tanmos@wm.west-call.com

Tanzanian Embassy in Kigali, Rwanda

Embassy of Tanzania in Rwanda
15 avenue Paul VI, B.P. 3973,
City: Kigali
Email: tanmos@wm.west-call.com

Tanzanian Embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Embassy of Tanzania in Saudi Arabia
P. O. Box 94320, Riyadh 11693,
City: Riyadh
Phone: 4542839,
Fax: 00 9661 454 9660

Tanzanian Embassy in Pretoria, South Africa

Embassy of Tanzania in Souh Africa
845 Goont Avenue
City: Pretoria
Phone: (+27-12)-3424371 / 3424393 / 3426378
Fax: +27-12-4304383
Email: tanzania@cis.co.za

Tanzanian Consulate in Seoul, South Korea

Consulate of Tanzania in South Korea
C/O Hyundai Corporation, Hyundai Building 2F, 140-2, Kye - dong Chrongro-ku
City: Seoul
Phone: +82-2-74461172
Fax: +82-2-7461093

Tanzanian Embassy in Stockholm, Sweden

Embassy of Tanzania in Sweden
Wallingatan 11
Box 7255
111 60, Stockholm
City: Stockholm
Phone: 46 8 503 206 00/1
Fax: 46 8 503 206 02
Web Site: http://www.tanemb.se/
Email: mailbox@tanemb.se

Tanzanian Embassy in Geneva, Switzerland

Embassy of Tanzania in Switzerland
47 Avenue Blanc, CH
1202 Geneva
City: Geneva
Phone: (004122) 731 8920
Fax: (4122) 732 8255
Email: mission.tanzania@itu.ch

Tanzanian Consulate in Bangkok, Thailand

Consulate of Tanzania in Thailand
S.L.D. Condominium, 3rdFL., 501 Saladaeng 1, Rama IV Road
City: Bangkok
Phone: +66-2-2358282 / +66-2-2358283
Fax: +66-2-2361977

Tanzanian Consulate in Istambul, Turkey

Consulate of Tanzania in Turkey
Min Kemal Oke CADDESI No. 10/4, 80 200 Nisantasi
City: Istambul
Phone: (+90-212)-2466142 / 2477261 / 2345679
Fax: +90-212-2345679

Tanzanian Embassy in Kampala, Uganda

Embassy of Tanzania in Uganda
6 Kagera Road, P. O. 5750, Kampala, Uganda
City: Kampala
Phone: (41) 257357, 242815, 256272
Fax: (041) 242890

Tanzanian Embassy in Kampala, Uganda

Embassy of Tanzania in Uganda
6 Kagera Road
City: Kampala
Phone: (+256-41) 256272 / 257357 / 342306
Fax: +256-41-343973 / +256-41-075-787838
Email: tzrepkla@imul.com

Tanzanian Embassy in Khalidiya, United Arab Emirates

Embassy of Tanzania in United Arab Emirates
No. 56 AL Nasr Street
City: Khalidiya
Phone: +971-2-6650226
Fax: +971-2-6661613
Email: tanrep@emirates.ne.ae

Tanzanian Consulate in Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Consulate of Tanzania in United Arab Emirates

City: Dubai
Phone: +971-4-2957770 / +971-4-2957600
Fax: +971-4-2957266

Tanzanian Consulate in London, United Kingdom

High Commission of the United Republic of Tanzania in London, United Kingdom
3 Stratford Place
London W1C 1AS
City: London
Phone: 004420 7569 1470
Fax: 004420 7495 8817
Web Site: http://www.tanzania-online.gov.uk/
Email: tanzarep@tanzania-online.gov.uk

Tanzanian Embassy in Washington, D.C., United States

Embassy of The United Republic of Tanzania in United States of America
2139 R Street, NW
Washington, DC 20008
United States
City: Washington, D.C.
Phone: +1 (202) 939 6125/7
+1 (202) 884 1080
Fax: +1 (202) 797 7408
Web Site: http://www.tanzaniaembassy-us.org
Email: Ubalozi@tanzaniaembassy-us.org
Office Hours: Monday to Friday 9AM - 5PM

Tanzanian Embassy in Lusaka, Zambia

Embassy of Tanzania in Zambia
Ujamaa House, No,5200, United Nations Avenue,
P. O. Box 31219, 10101 Lusaka, Zambia
City: Lusaka
Phone: 227698/227702
Fax: 260 01 254861
Email: tzreplsk@zamnet.zm

Tanzanian Embassy in Lusaka, Zambia

Embassy of Tanzania in Zambia
Ujamaa House, No. 4200, United Nations Avenue
City: Lusaka
Phone: +260-1-243222 / 243224 / 250826
Fax: +260-01-254861
Email: tzreplsk@zamnet.zm

Tanzanian Embassy in Harare, Zimbabwe

Embassy of Tanzania in Zimbabwe
Ujamaa House, 23 Baines Avenue
Harare, Zimbabwe
City: Harare
Phone: (263-4) 721870, 722627, 882265
Fax: (263-4) 724172
Email: tanrep@icon.co.zw

All info were correct at the time of publishing. Please check for any updates.

Tanzania Visa

2008-12-16T02:04:00.000-08:00

Travelers to Tanzania will require a Valid Passport or a valid travel document to enter Tanzania. In addition to a valid passport or travel document, foreigners have to carry a return ticket.

Do I need a Tanzania Visa?
Visitors from Non-Commonwealth countries are required to have a valid visa unless their countries have visa abolition agreement with Tanzania. However there are exceptions: Citizens of Commonwealth countries are not required to obtain visa, unless they are citizens of the United Kingdom, Canada, Nigeria, India, Pakistan or The Republic of South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. Please check this from time to time.

There are five classes of Tanzania visa:
1. Ordinary Visa.
2. CTA Visa.
3. Multiple Entry Visa.
4. Referred Visa.
5. Transit Visa.

Tanzania Visa can be obtained from anyone of the following places / offices:

1.The office of the Director of Immigration services, Dar es Salaam
2.Office of the Assistant Director of Immigration Services Zanzibar.
3.Tanzania Missions abroad
4.Any of the entry points to the United Republic of Tanzania, i.e. Namanga, Tunduma,
Sirari, Horohoro, Kigoma Port, Julius.K. Nyerere International Airport (JKNIA),Kilimanjaro International Airport, Zanzibar Harbour and Zanzibar International Airport (ZIA) and other gazetted entry points.

Tanzania Visa Fees
The current rate of Tanzania Visa fee are as follow:
a) Holiday and Ordinary visa is US $. 50 except for Pakistan (US $.200)
b) Multiple visa 6 months to 1 year is US $ 100, while 3 months multiple visa fee is US $.50.

Tanzania Visa Application Forms
Download Word Version
Download PDF version

Cost of Living Dar es Salaam Tanzania.

2008-11-16T04:50:00.000-08:00

Dar es Salaam is the commercial capital of Tanzania. Seen as the Mecca of Tanzania, Dar es Salaam attracts a lot of population from all over Tanzania. Most Company HQ's are located in Dar es Salaam because of its commercial importance and convenience. The biggest port is also located in Dar es Salaam, making business houses, importers and others to select this place convenient for their operations.

As I mentioned earlier, its the most populated city in Tanzania, making it costlier than other cities in Tanzania. A big expatriate population also resides in this city which I feel is responsible for high cost of living in Dar es Salaam, to some extent. However, its a lovely place and I have enjoyed staying here.

For those who plan to come here on work or otherwise, I can give you a rough idea on Cost of Living in Dar es Salaam.

1. A Tsh. 100,000 ($78) Pre-Paid electricity card lasts for about 35 days in a 3 bedroom air conditioned apartment.
2. Cost of a Gas cylinder, Tsh. 40,000 ($29)
3. Water is mostly provided by the Landlord (please check yours)
4. School fees will depend on what type of school. International schools will cost more, about $4000 to $15,000 per year. Some good schools are Agh Khan Nursery, Primary & Secondary, International School of Tanganyika, Indian School, Delhi Public School, Dar es Salaam International School, Laureate International School, Heaven of Peace etc.
5. Cost of a bread $1 approx.
6. A decent meal $10-$15 approx.
7. A burger $ 2.5
8. A pizza $4-5
9. House Rent depends on locality, $500-$4000 (lately shot up check House Rent in Dar es Salaam)

I have tried to give an estimate, personal choices vary, hence do costs. Happy staying in Dar es Salaam.

Last updated on 02nd May 2010

Map of Tanzania

2008-04-04T05:03:00.000-07:00

Looking for a Map of Tanzania?

I find a lot of people looking for a Map of Tanzania. Tanzania is an East African Country located between longitude 29 degree and 41 degree East, Latitude 1o and 12o South. You can find a Map of Tanzania here.

View Larger Map

I also managed to get a Google Map for Tanzania.

Traffic in Dar es Salaam

2008-03-31T22:45:00.000-07:00

Traffic congestion in Dar es Salaam is getting worse day by day. With the recent rains the situation further worsened with water logging. Adding to the problem is the widening of several roads. On one such Thursday I happened to pass by the Mwenge Road. We had to take the other side of the road as the left road was flooded. Trucks and cars were stranded on both sides of the road. "Smart" drivers were trying to cut across other cars making it difficult for everyone. I sometimes wonder why some drivers think they are "great". After moving at a snails pace for about one and half hour we finally reached the Mwenge Junction where all hell broke. It was a chaos at the site. Nobody new where they were going. Everyone was just trying to sneak and find their way. We were stranded there for about 45 minutes. It was too much and I had to call a Radio station for them to announce that there is no Traffic police to help clear the chaos. It was raining non stop and I saw two or three guys trying to sort out the traffic maze. Poor guys! Meanwhile our driver became more enthusiastic after seeing all the other drivers trying to steer their way out, also started trying some tricks. After a few minutes two lady police arrived at the scene. I guess, it was due to the announcements that I requested over the radio, that the cops arrived. I was with one of my friend and on the way to a venue. With the delay we had to cancel our plans, wondering about other people, who may have cancelled their plans too, due to the chaos.

In such a situation I don't think any emergency rescue like an Ambulance or Fire Brigade would be able to make their way out. The same happened during the US President George W. Bush's visit to Tanzania. People were sitting for hours inside their cars, schools getting closed and entire Dar es Salaam was in chaos.

My views are that, why can't the Police department make plans well in advance and inform the public about the road blockades in such cases. In cases like heavy rains Police are not to be seen anywhere? What happens in case of a major disaster? Who clears the traffic?

Traffic in Dar es Salaam is as it is a nightmare, imagine is situations like above. Dar es Salaam desperately needs flyovers and scientific traffic management. Knock knock.

Tanzania National Public Holidays 2008

2008-03-11T04:11:00.000-07:00

Tanzania National Public Holidays 2008

1st January - New Year Day
12th January - Zanzibar Revolution Day
21st* or 22nd* March - Maulid Day
21st March - Good Friday
24th March - Easter Monday
7th April - The Sheikh Abeid Amani Karume Day
26th April - Union Day
1st May - Workers' Day
7th July - Saba Saba (International Trade Fair)
8th August - Peasants Day
3rd* & 4th* October - Idd-El-Fitri
14th October - The Mwalimu Nyerere Day and Climax of the Uhuru Torch Race
9th December - Republic Day
10th* or 11th* December - Idd-El-Hadj
25th December - Christmas Day
26th December - Boxing Day

* These holidays will depend upon the appearance of the new moon.

Tanzania National Public Holidays 2008

Dar es Salaam 12th Dirtiest City in the World: Forbes

2008-03-06T05:57:00.000-08:00

Dar es Salaam 12th Dirtiest city in the World

A recent announcement by Forbes on the TOP 25 dirtiest cities in the world revealed that Dar es Salaam was the 12th dirtiest city in the world! Forbes announced this based on a study by Mercer Health and Sanitation.

From the list it was seen that most of the cities were from Asia and Africa continents. Aren't there any dirty cities in any other parts of the world!

Dar residents come on lets make the city clean.

View of Mount Meru

2008-02-08T00:27:00.000-08:00

Tanzania Links

2008-02-05T10:48:00.000-08:00

Fair rooms in Duesseldorf

Lodging service is a service-company that offers an accommodation service (Messezimmer) for all fair visitors and businessmen in Hannover, Frankfurt, Duesseldorf and Cologne. Of course private
tourists are welcome, too.

The Recent Political Turmoil In Kenya

2008-01-04T11:41:00.000-08:00

The Recent Political Turmoil In Kenya

What I saw in a Television News Channel yesterday on the present scenario in Kenya was unbelievable. After I saw the scene, I was wondering myself as to what's the difference between us and animals in this world. A helpless man being beaten to death in just in about two minutes. Its really sad that is happening in Kenya. It proves that when it comes to political power there is no mankind. Who's going to help the homeless, the children who have lost their parents, the old who lost their only hope in this world.

All this for the position of a President. Shame on this world. Hundreds have died, several hundred are being rendered homeless. Just imagine, people being burnt inside a church, where they were taking shelter fearing death. Here is how ordinary people are dying, they fail to understand that there are people who are taking advantage of them. Are these leaders coming out in the open and standing by their side when they are protesting. They are safe is some corner of the city with bullet proof cars, hundred of guards. The remote control is with them. Let's try and understand this, there are other ways to protest. At least not by killing our own.

For God's sake please stop this killing!

Christmas Is Around

2007-12-23T10:02:00.001-08:00

Along with the entire world Tanzania will also be celebrating Christmas. Tanzania has a Christian population of about 30% (CIA World Factbook) . Some of the places you can spend this Christmas at Dar es Salaam are at Slipway, Hotel Golden Tulip, Sea Cliff, White Sand Hotel & Resorts, New Africa Hotel, South Beach Hotel and Resorts, Sunrise Hotel and Resorts, Beach Comber Hotel, Jangwani SeaBreeze Resort. At most of these venues there will be DJ music, A la Carte menu, buffet dinner and other performances. At Mediterraneo Hotel & Restaurant, you can enjoy a Buffet Dinner for Tsh. 50,000 ($42) per person with 1 bottle of wine per couple. There will be a cracker show too.

Experience Precision Air in Tanzania

2007-09-04T00:10:00.000-07:00

This time on my way back from Arusha to Dar es Salaam, I opted for Precision Air. It was a Sunday and I thought of spending the day with my family at Dar. The flight was scheduled to depart Kilimanjaro International Airport at 7:30 am. A shuttle service from the Arusha to Kilimanjaro International Airport is available for both Precision Air and Air Tanzania. It takes about one hour from Arusha City to Kilimanjaro International Airport. The shuttle arrived at around 5:15 to Hotel Impala. I was tensed as I did not have the opportunity to reconfirm my return tickets as I was travelling upcountry. Arriving Arusha at 7:00pm from upcountry the previous day, I went to their office to find out that they had already closed for the day. I called up my travel agent who gave me a number and asked me to call and reconfirm my journey. I called the number to learn that networks were down since noon and there was no way to reconfirm at that moment.

The bus shuttle arrive KIA at around 6:00 am. I was probably the second person to check-in. I asked for an emergency row seat, usually I prefer this place because of the leg place it offers. The only annoying factor is the emergency exit briefing by the crew. I went straight towards the departure gate carrying only a hand baggage. The security personal asked me to open my bag and remove my deodorant, bottle of water and my hair Gel. I asked him if I can put this baggage as a registered baggage. He said that it can be done. I went back to the check-in counter and put my baggage as a registered baggage. I came back to the departure gate.

I went to the restaurant at the departure hall to have a cup of Tea. As I was sipping my tea, I noticed two white people walking towards the restaurant. They asked the restaurant manager if he had Whiskey. I said to myself Whiskey at this hour in the morning. Another person joined them and all three walked away with glass of Whiskey in their hands with Club Soda and Coke. I started wondering, how one can drink Whiskey at this hour of the day.

As I was talking to myself it was time for boarding the flight. As I boarded the plane, a lady crew welcomed me. I could see on her face, that she was tired of her job. Towards the Cockpit I was shown my seat by a young steward. As I took my seat, to my surprise there was no emergency exit briefing on this flight. It was an ATR aircraft. I am an ex-airline employee and know a little about Aircraft's and Airlines.

We waited as the engine started one by one. As the engine started I noticed there were mosquitoes inside the aircraft. A gentleman sitting in front of me was actually trying to kill mosquitoes by clapping the mosquitoes in between his hands. I was wondering how can there be mosquitoes inside an passenger aircraft. The steward had noticed the man clapping his hands to kill the mosquitoes, but did not utter a word. I thought of complaining but left it at that point. After the flight took off we were offered Breakfast. The breakfast box contained a bun with boiled egg sandwiched, a cup of yogurt and a Green Apple. I took a few bites of the Green Apple and asked for a cup of tea. I would have paid for a nice breakfast if they had sold it inside the aircraft.

As we approached Dar es Salaam, I was thinking as to how Precision Air has been operating. Travelers’ were happy killing mosquitoes inside the aircraft. With many such thoughts in my mind the aircraft touched the runway and taxied towards the arrivals.

This was my experience with Precision Air.

Getting More Fish

2007-09-03T23:11:00.000-07:00

As decided earlier, this Sunday I went to Ruva to get some fish along with our friends Pranab and his wife Dina and Mandal. I had to go alone as my wife and son had to go for a School picnic.

We started at around 11am. On our way one of the fisherman called up Pranab and informed that he has kept some fish for him and he should come to collect. Pranab told him that we were on the way to Ruva. I was really excited to hear this. Pranab told him to keep those fish, fearing they would roast it.
These fish vendors usually roast all fish once they are caught. We reached Ruvu around 12:15. On reaching we saw that he had kept 3 fish which he roasted. This really annoyed me. The vendor said they are expecting some more fish to come in the afternoon at around 3 pm. All of us decided to wait till then. It was a long wait.

Dina decided we walk through the tall grasslands by the bank of River Ruvu. They had gone there before. As we walked down and reached a construction site of the new Ruvu Bridge, we asked one person to show us the way to the River. A lady happen to pass by us to collect water from the river. We were asked to follow the lady. She was carrying a bucket and a mug with a stick attached to it, so that she can scoop water to fill her bucket. We reached the place and it was quite steep to the water level. Sitting there and talking for a while we walked back to the construction site. One of us spotted a fishing net near a makeshift campsite in a container. We wanted to try our hands on it. When we asked if we can use it, the guard said he needs to take permission from his boss. The boss agreed to lend us the net. Excited we marched towards the river. Pranab and myself positioned ourselves for a good catch. The net was set and there we pulled it out from the water. One small fish and we thought we will get more of them. The second time we got two more of them, after that it was bad luck. Too much excitement.....We tried changing places but no luck. We walked backed to the market to find that some fish has arrived, but there were very few of them and we had four families to share. So we decided to wait for some more time.

There was a small shop nearby,
where we all managed to get some shade and place to sit enjoying Pepsi, Watermelon and Coconut water. That was our lunch for the day.

After some gossip, we saw a small crowd gathering near the fish market. Pranab was aware that more fish had arrived. We went to see that only Catfish was available. After negotiating for the cost, we got a bucket of Catfish. I saw a big one, I have never seen such a big catfish in my life. But, we opted for smaller one. The fisherman cleaned all the fish for us. All the Catfish were alive.We waited for some more time hoping that more fish would come. It was 4:30 and we decided to come back to Dar es Salaam. We also did some Pumpkin, Sugarcane and Watermelon shopping from the market.

That was almost a whole day waiting for fish. Great!

Legendary Nelson Mandela

2007-08-31T02:20:00.001-07:00

Honoring Nelson Mandela by the British for his struggle against apartheid came as no surprise and I think was a long due to him. The person who has spent 27 valuable years of his life in prison fighting for his people itself proves his selflessness for a cause. Aged 89, Mr. Mandela looked frail but his face was bright and smiling as always. When I see at this person it reminds me of Mahatma Gandhi on whose footsteps Mr. Mandela carried out his struggle for apartheid. 27 valuable years of one's life in a prison will be painful for anyone, even for a person with the greatest willpower.

Britain honored this great man by unveiling a bronze statue of South Africa's first African black President alongside of statesmen like Winston Churchill and Abraham Lincoln. Mr. Mandela became the President of South Africa in 1994. I saw him for the first time then, when his story was flashed all over the TV channels. The statue stood 9 feet at London's Parliament Square.

Mr. Mandela recalled how he and fellow anti-apartheid leader Oliver Timbo visited London in 1962 and joked that they hoped to see a Black Person's statute beside South African Prime Minister Jan Smuts, which stands nearby. The idea of putting up this statue was first put forward by Donald Woods, the crusading South African anti-apartheid newspaper editor. After the death of Woods, Richard Attenborough, who made films like "Cry Freedom" took forward the project.

A revolutionary on his own, Mr. Mandela will be long long remembered by this world for his commitment, dedication, patience and peaceful struggle against apartheid.

All Fishy

2007-08-30T00:27:00.000-07:00

I love to eat a lot of fish and I like only fresh water fish. Last time I travelled to Morogoro in Tanzania, on the way near Ruvu river I saw some vendors selling roasted fish by the roadside. I have heard that one can get fish from the river nearby.I have friends who drive down over weekends and bring back fresh fish from this place. I asked my driver to stop the car and ask one of the vendors who was selling fish if he can get us fresh fish from the river. The driver went and got a vendor near our car. He was asking me what size I wanted. In excitement, I said any size. He said he can get when we return from Morogoro. We agreed. I was accompanied by one of my suppliers who too wanted if they can get the fish alive. He was an Islam and wanted to take only if he can Halal the fish. The fisherman said no problem.I was really excited at the thought of getting fresh fish from the river. It has been long I haven't tasted fresh water fish. I always find sea fish to be carrying a smell which I don't like.

We started our journey towards Morogoro once again. I have been to Morogoro several times before and I like the journey as the roads are very good and I enjoy the greenery on both sides of the road. On the way one can see vegetable vendors putting up their stalls to attract passing vehicles. Vegetables are cheap and fresh. I thought of picking up some on my way back.We reached Morogoro at around 1030 Hrs. I finished my official work by 1430 Hrs and went for lunch to Oasis Hotel. I like the food of this hotel. We finished our lunch by 1530 hrs.

Last time I visited Morogoro with my family to visit Mikumi, I drove towards a rock garden where there is a beautiful water fall. On my way to the water fall I saw some white people. That time I thought they must have come to work for some NGOs or mining. I asked one of our company representatives this time out of inquisitiveness I asked him who they are. Interestingly he mentioned that these people are Brazilian and have settled in Morogoro. The are into Hunting since then and are very wealthy.

We left Morogoro for Dar es Salaam at around 1545 Hrs. On my way back I bought some vegetables from the roadside vendors. Fresh and big these vegetables are very tempting. Quite cheap, I bought some in good quantities. Chances are that you get confused when number of vendors come running towards you to buy their stuff. We proceeded from there on. On the way we got a call from the fisherman that he managed to get some fish for us. I was really excited on hearing this. On reaching the place I was really upset because he managed to get big sized Cat Fish for us. I have tasted big Cat Fish earlier and did not like it. With no choice left I paid for a small sized Cat fish. He told me that he can arrange for fish with scales if I go there early in the morning.I really love fish

Believe me, my wife cooked the Cat fish for me and its taste was mind blowing. At first my wife was sceptical about the fish, once it was cooked and she tasted, she started cursing me for not getting more of them. Actually I was sceptical at the time of buying the fish.

I plan to go on a Sunday as of writing this post

My Travel to Arusha

2007-08-28T04:54:00.001-07:00

My travel to Arusha this time was marred with pathetic Customer Service at Hotel Impala. After having a tough journey from upcountry location, Karatu and Mbulu, I went into check-in Hotel Impala at around 6:30 pm in the evening. I had booked my room well in time. After waiting for about half an hour one of the check-in staff came and stood in front of me. She did not even bother to wish me. I wished her and told her that she needs to check me in. It seems everyone in the hotel were not in a mood to serve their guests. This was the third time I visited Hotel Impala in Arusha. I saw her struggling to find my booking flipping through a folder that had all the bookings. Even after pronouncing my name twice and spelling it for her, she kept on struggling. I pointed out my reservation form to her. I was checked in at last.

I was really angry at the way they were handling my check-in. I was really tired that evening because the roads were very bad towards Mbulu. After the check-in was over, there was no one to help me carry my luggage. In frustration I picked up my luggage and took the lift to my room. As if my (GRAND!) reception at the counter was not enough, I entered the room to see a small TV. I immediately called up the reception and complained about it. The receiver could not answer my questions and transferred the call without even requesting me to hold the call. The other person picked up the phone and started telling me that that was the only TV. When I told him that I had stayed there before, he became defensive and told me that he will check whether he had a big TV or not. I waited for his call, but the call never came.

Hotel Impala has about 170 rooms and I was wondering how they were running their business. It is one of the most visited Hotels in Arusha. Next morning at around 4:15 am I asked them to check me out. The person at the reception says that it's too early as my shuttle bus would come at 5 am. I thought to myself, that's none of his business.

When I came down to check-out, there was a gentleman who checked me out. A couple comes down to check-out after 10 minutes. From the time she came to the reception counter she started complaining of something which I could not hear. She was demanding a reduction in the room rent because they could not sleep due to some reasons and had to change their room. The staff at the reception kept on insisting that she pay the full amount. After lot of debate she refused to pay and walked out of the Hotel towards the gate cursing the hotel for their services. It seems they had faced lot of problems in the place. She was shouting at the top of her voice saying "you only know money and nothing else". No wonder, I said to myself. The staff instructed the guards at the Gate not to allow the couple to go out. The staff then offered them a $10 discount on the bills.

This is what unprofessionalism is when it comes to providing service to your customers are. If I happen to visit Arusha again, I will never like to stay there once more.

Nane Nane Rally88 2007 Arusha

2007-08-17T02:15:00.000-07:00

Sponsored by Tanzanite One,the Rally attracted Racers from Kenya, Uganda, Australia, Zambia and Tanzania this year. The rally was organised from the 10th of August to 12th of August,Here are some photographs of the rally. The winner took home Certified Tanzanite Jewellery worth $4000, runners up a Holiday package to valued at $2500 and a PC to the 3rd position.

Organised by the Arusha Motor Sports Club, the first leg of the rally covered Sheikh Amri Abeid Stadium, Col Middleton Road, Arusha to finish at Tanzanite One Mining Grounds, Merarani. The second leg start location was from Tanzanite One Mines to finish at Tanzanite One Mines. 36 entries were recorded for this year's rally.

This Rally will count for the following Titles:-

2007 - AAT National Rally Championship for Drivers / Co-Drivers

2007 - AAT Group N Championship for Drivers / Co-Drivers

2007 - AAT Rally Championship for 2 wheel Drive Cars - Drivers / Co-Drivers

2007 - AAT Rally Championship for 4 wheel Driver Cars - Drivers / C0-Drivers

Photographs of Nane Nane Rally88 2007

Top Ten Tanzania National Parks

2007-06-07T06:22:00.000-07:00

Top Ten Tanzania National Parks
By Ian Williamson

There is not enough room here to put a fully comprehensive list of information about each and every National Park in Tanzania; these descriptions of only ten of our National Parks serves to give a cross-section of what is on offer.

1. Katavi National Park: In 2001 the Serengeti had 100,000 visitors; in contrast the Katavi National Park in the remote and almost inaccessible west of Tanzania had only 83 visitors. The only other people you are likely to meet in this park are other guests and the staff at the one [tented] lodge in the one million hectares of this park. This is the personification of the term ‘well off the beaten track’. It is famed for its huge herds of buffalo up to four thousand in a single herd.

2. The Serengeti: As you stand on the southern grass plains, you experience the vastness of this park and witness one of the greatest concentrations of plains animals left on earth. The Grunmeti Western Corridor stretches almost to the shores of Lake Victoria, and is an important part of the migratory routes. Lobo Northern Woodland is where the wildebeest move from June-December to feed on the longer grasses that persist in the area. Seronera in the central Serengeti, with year-round water, this is perhaps the most reliable area in the park to view wildlife.

3. Ngorongoro Crater is a true marvel and I believe unique in Africa; it is located between the lake Manyara National Park and the Serengeti. It was formed from an ancient volcano that erupted and then collapsed into the crater we see today. The crater floor is spread across one hundred square miles and is home to many thousands of animals. Ngorongoro Crater enjoys a year round water supply and so nearly all animals remain here as permanent residents.

4. Tarangire National Park, deserves a closer look than in normally receives from visitors. It has a high Elephant population and an amazing bird life and anyone keen on bird watching will be well rewarded. In the dry season, many animals come to the Tarangire River as this river never dries and continually has water on offer to the thirsty.

5. Lake Manyara National Park is home to millions of flamingos, pelicans, storks and other bird life, as well as many hippos that can be observed at close range. Hot springs trickle into the shallow waters. Lake Manyara’s famous tree-climbing lions are another reason to pay this park a visit, along with the largest concentration of baboons in Tanzania.

6. Arusha National Park: This lovely park is set between the peaks of Mount Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro. Its area is only 53 square miles and therefore tiny when compared to the vast Serengeti or the huge Selous. The Park is as outstandingly beautiful as it is small and can be visited easily from the nearby town of Arusha. The highlands of this park are forested with the peak of Mount Meru rising above the forests to dominate the area.

7. Ruaha National Park is where eastern and southern African have met together and many species of fauna and flora overlap. In the dry season, July to November, the river is an excellent place for observing large numbers of game including lions, leopards, hunting dogs, giraffe, waterbuck, eland and warthogs. This park is remote, unspoiled, untamed and rarely visited. With few lodges and tourists in the park, each group on safari has the impression of having the whole of Africa to themselves.

8. Gombe Stream &The Mahale Mountains are a mixture of grass, woodlands and forest, although it is mostly forest with the majority of its mammals being primates. These forests are lush and green rising up to 15,000 meters above the waters of Lake Tanganyika. With over twenty years of research, the chimpanzees have become habituated to humans. However, this does not make it easy to find them. Trekking through the forest, which can be quite dense, with steep and often slippery sloping terrain, can be strenuous, dirty work. It is well worth it though to get to see the chimpanzee in their natural habitat. You must expect to walk for three or four hours per day in search of these primates.

9. Udzungwa Mountains: Also known as the Galapagos Island of Africa: this park was created primarily for the protection of flora rather than fauna. There are no roads in the park and you have to be prepared to do lots of hard hiking; indeed this is a hiker’s paradise. Many regard the Udzungwa forests to be among highest-ranking destinations for bird watching in Africa. The Udzungwa hosts animals that are found in most Tanzanian parks including elephants, buffaloes, lion and leopard; also including the African wild dog, which is only found in Southern Tanzania. However, most of these are not present in large numbers. A park ranger and/or guide must accompany all hikers.

10. Saadani is where the bush meets the sea. This colorful clash of ecosystems is found nowhere else along the coast of East Africa. Imagine this is the place where the hippopotamus compete with coral reefs, lions roar at the surf and baboons race along the beach. Your hotel room not only looks out over the African bush but it also has a sea view! Walking safaris are allowed in the forest and on returning from your walking safari to your hotel - take off your boots – and have a refreshing walk in the surf; this park also boasts a special night walk trail.

For more information on hiking in Tanzania and Tanzania’s National parks contact the Tanzania information Hub http://www.tanzania-info.co.uk and for tourist information http://www.betheladventure.co.uk remember that tourism can change lives - make sure your trip to Africa makes a difference.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ian_Williamson
http://EzineArticles.com/?Top-Ten-Tanzania-National-Parks&id=84159

Dar es Salaam "Slipway"

2007-03-28T22:41:00.000-07:00

A great place to relax yourself in Dar es Salaam. This activity center is located just at the tip of the peninsula of Indian Ocean in Tanzania.

The waterfront restaurant Mashua Bar is a place where you can enjoy a drink with Pizza's and variety of snacks. On Thursday's you will get the opportunity to have your drink with live music from renowned Tanzanian bands. Other restaurants there are Capt. Ali's Pub, Azuma a Japanese restaurant, the Terrace which overlooks the Indian ocean. The sunset scene from this place is fantastic.

Slipway also provides accommodation facilities. Studio apartments for long holidays and Souk rooms can be booked for a comfortable stay at Slipway. You can get further details at Slipway.

For your shopping needs, Slipway has a book store, Furniture centre, Supermarket for your daily needs, Mobile Phone shops, Jewelry Shop and a Traditional souk market selling Tanzania crafts and arts.

The facility of a children park inside Slipway delights kids. With an entry fee of approx. $1.5, on weekends kids can get a free tattoo done with water colours. Other playing equipments include a mary go round, sea saw, jumping castle etc. A Juice corner, ice cream parlour, pop corn and sugar candy vendors are there to attract kids.

Regular ferries to Bongoyo Marine Reserve and Shark's Lagoon operates from Slipway. Visitors with fishing interests can contact slipway for fishing adventures. These ferries depart at :
9:30
11:30
13:30
15:30

Zanzibar and Mini Skirts

2007-01-29T23:40:00.000-08:00

Today when I was on my way to the office and was listening to one of the radio stations, there was an interesting conversation that was taking place. It seems Zanzibar has taken strong exception to women wearing skirts above the knee level. Women found to be wearing such skirts will be tagged as prostitutes and will be arrested !

I have been to Zanzibar and have not seen any women wearing short skirts. Tourists who visit this place are well aware of the customs prevailing in the place. Zanzibar is a Islam dominated island and women are not allowed to expose their skin in public places.

For the ones who plan to visit this island, please adhere to the local customs in Zanzibar.

Expats to Tanzania Part I

2007-01-25T22:37:00.000-08:00

Fantastic ! So you have got an offer to work in Tanzania, East Africa. Relax. You must have heard a lot from your friends, searching over the internet bla bla.... Thank yourself for getting a job or assignment in Tanzania. To my knowledge this is the safest place that I have been. When I got my offer to work in Tanzania, the same happened to me. I am writing this post so that you don't have to search much. The biggest city in Tanzania is Dar es Salaam, followed by Arusha (tourist place), Mwanza, Mbeya, Morogoro and the famous Zanzibar.

Dar is just like any other city with food chains like Steers, Sub way and supermarkets like Game, Shoprite. Hotels groups like Movenpick and Kempinski are available. There is the Gymkhana Club just behind Movenpick. You will find leading banks Standard Chartered, Stanbic, Citibank,Bank of Baroda,Exim Bank,NBC,CRDB, Barclays Bank. ATMs are available in almost all places in the city. Most Credit Cards are widely accepted. The city has a multiscreen theatre on the Bagamoyo road. You can enjoy the latest Hollywood and Bollywood blockbusters. There are about 4-5 shopping malls in the city. Internet cafes are plenty and will allow you to make internation calls at very low rates. There are about 5 mobile operators namely Vodacom,Celtel,Zantel,TTCL and Tigo. The GSM frequency is 900/1800/400. Sim cards are available in retail stores and no documentation is required for pre paid-cards and comes with ISD facility. Broadband Internet services are available and there are host of ISP providers. Some of the leading providers are Raha, Afsat, Win Internet, CTV Internet, TTCL, Celtel, Zantel. Rates vary from ISP to ISP. Expensive compared to other parts of the world. The pre paid charges for a 30 day card is about $35. Numerous restaurants are available in this City. Some of them serving Indian, Italian, Chinese, Continental, Ethopian, Japanese and Egyptian cusines. I will be shortly posting one on the restaurants in Dar es Salaam.

Cost of Living: Though I will not be able to provide you with cost of Living Indexes, I will try to give you an idea.

Housing 2/3 BR - $1000

Petrol - $1

Rice - $1 / KG

Potatoes - 0.50 Cents

Bread - 0.60 Cents

Eating Out - $5 per meal in an average restaurant

Movies - $5

Cable TV - $20 per month

Internet - $35 per month

Schooling - Primary $400 annually

Maid - $40-50 per month

Taxi - $1.5 Town trip

Electricity - Pre paid cards are available, will depend on how you use.

Burger - $2.5

Pizza - $3

The above is just an idea.

More to come....

Dr. Morris Cerullo to visit Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

2007-01-25T13:25:00.000-08:00

Dr. Morris Cerullo of World Agape Ministries will be at Dar es Salaam from the 6th to 10th of February. Registrations are open to meet him at ATN Studios Mbezi Beach. Registration fee of Tsh. 1000//- applies. For further details contact semina@agape.co.tz or call +255 71 3432261.

Sarengeti Wildlife Videos

2007-01-25T00:45:00.000-08:00

Tanzanian Currency

2007-01-24T08:22:00.000-08:00

Tanzanian Currency is known as Tanzanian Shillings. To see the exchange rate of a TShilling against a $ Click Here. International Currency Code TZS

Denominations :-

Coins are available in =05, 10,20,50 cents 1/=, 5/=, 10/=, 20/=, 50/=, 100/= and 200/= TZS

Bank Notes are available in 500/=,1000/=,2000/=,5000/=,10000/= TZS

The central Bank is "Bank of Tanzania"

Tanzania Bank Note Samples

The Sunday Lunch

2007-01-22T05:42:00.000-08:00

Exploring new places for food has been me and my wife's passion. Sunday was a day to explore one of them. There are hundreds of restaurants in Dar es Salaam. We thought of trying one recommendation. A buffet lunch at a restaurant in Shoppers Plaza in Msasani on the Old Bagamoyo Road. Just $4.5 per buffet. Quite resonable ! I started with a carrot soup, yummy. For the price you pay you get too much. There were a variety of dishes. Hydrabadi Biryani, Chicken Biryani, Liver Fry, Salads, Chicken and Beef, Fish Salads, Chicken Curry, Vegetable Paneer, Nan, Chapatti, Mixed Veg, Chilli Paneer, Deserts and of course you can order for a Juice or a Soft Drink. The place needed some more space as I saw that it was packed with customers. I tried the chicken wings in sweet sauce. I don't like sweet, but I could guess it for someone who likes sweet, it would be delicious. My wife liked the Hydrabadi Biryani too much except for the solid cloves which she and my son chewed. I hate to chew that with food. To me it spoils the taste of your food. The aroma of these spices are good. All in all, the place was good and for the price you pay, it was more than enough.

If you would like to visit this place, take a taxi from any part of Dar es Salaam and ask him to take you to Shoppers Plaza. Its towards Msasani, Old Bagamoyo road.

Mikumi National Park, Tanzania

2007-01-20T11:57:00.000-08:00

Mikumi National Park is about 280 kms from Dar es Salaam, the commercial capital of Tanzania. One of the unexplored parks and comes under the southern circuit. This park is a home to variety of animals like Lions, Giraffe, Baboon,Zebra,Snakes,Boars,Deer,Buffaloes,Wild hunting dogs,elephants etc. The park is spread across 3230 sq.kms. If you plan to visit this park from Dar es Salaam, you have to take the Morogoro road. This road is one of the busiest road in Dar and traffic moves in inches. The drive towards Morogoro is a fantastic one with good roads.On the way you will come across a transit point, this is where the road on your right goes towards Arusha and Moshi, this place is called Chalienze. You can have a short break here and stretch you legs after the long traffic jams. As you stop your car, you can see hawkers running towards your car to sell cashewnuts and other snacks.

As you travel you will see lush green fields on both sides of the road. To my surprise, I thought Africa is all about Jungles. Further nearing Morogoro you will see plantations of Sisal on both sides of the road. Tanzania used to be one of the biggest exporters of Sisal to the European markets.The country has now lost its importance in the world market. Fibres are produced from this plant. Vehicles cruise at around 120-130 kms/hr on this highway. After Chalinze, Morogoro is the next big town. You can plan your stay here or can go down straight to any of the resorts in Mikumi. Morogoro is a small town with a population of about 227,921 (2002 census).

There is not much to see in Morogoro, one can visit the rock garden resort, about 3-4 kms from the city. As you enter the resort you can hear the gushing sound of a waterfall. Just pay a $1 and you are near the fall. Though the name says resort, it's typically a local restaurant.

As you drive down from Morogoro to Mukimi, you will see small hills on both sides of the road. The distance from Morogoro to Mikumi is about 85 kms. Roads are very good, this is the road that goes to Iringa and Mbeya.

Once you enter the park area, you will feel the excitement. Walking or parking your vehicle on the road is prohibitted in the 50 kms highway stretch along the park.After about 4-5 kms into the park you can sight numerous animals along the road side.Giraffe, Deer, Baboons, Wild Buffaloes, Wild Boar, Fouls, elephants are a common sight. You might have to struggle at first to have a glimpse of a lion. The best time to view animals is during the early morning hours. As the day becomes hotter, these animals retreat to the shades or their hideout. If you drive down about 6 kms crossing the exit gate if you are going from Dar es salaam, you can visit the Snake Park,a private snake park. It has a collection of some snakes, Nile crocodiles and Hinged Tortoise. It has a restaurant and a hotel, you can relax there with a cup of coffee.

Various tour operators are there from Dar es Salaam to Mikumi and other places. If you are looking for a cost effective travel to the park, then you should travel to Morogoro by a bus, there are many bus operators from Dar es Salaam to Morogoro. Stay a night at Morogoro. Decent hotels are available at Morogoro from $35-$50. Plan your trip to Morogoro so that you reach the place early. There are safari operators from Morogoro. Once you reach the hotel, contact the hotel staff to help you find a safari operator.Most of the time the hotels keep contacts of safari operators.Once you find out a safari operator, your chances are that you will find a shared safari jeep. This will be economical. If you hire a jeep for full day you can pay $100 and get it. There is a entrace fee at the Park gate. A guide is provided to you. Getting out of your vehicle inside the park is not allowed.You can come back the same day to Morogoro once you complete the park tour.

Useful resources

For Best Rate Guranteed Hotels
Hotel Oasis, Morogoro
Tour Operators

Safe Driving in Tanzania

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Be careful while driving in Tanzania. Specially on weekends you will see some police in brown uniform. As far as I know these policemen are suppose to take care of law and order. Don't be surprised if you are pulled up and asked for your credentials, your permit, visa etc. At times you may be lucky and they will ask you to leave. If you are unlucky on a day, they will say that you have violated a rule. If you ask the reason, it can vary, from you driving recklessly (you know you have not), taking a turn at high speed ,obstruction of traffic (if you are looking for a parking space) etc. If you try to clarify yourself they will say "oh you are competing with the police".They will threaten you of the police station. I sugguest you handle the situation very carefully and in a matured manner. Avoid going to the police stations and pay a fine against a receipt.

Otherwise people in Tanzania are "Gems". They are friendly, welcoming, helpful, I wonder what makes these policemen different from the population. Before you start driving on the roads of Tanzania you should be familar with some of the important Driving Rules in Tanzania.

1. Driving is on left hand.

3. Most saloon cars are automatic.

2. Seat belts are absolutely necessary atleast for the driver and the passenger seated on the front.Fines vary from $40-50.

3. Lane driving applies to almost all the cities. So plan your roads well before. You might be caught by the police for last minute lane changes.

4. Be confident while driving.

5. Obey traffic signals. At some traffic signals you might see the traffic police handling the traffic. In such situations obey the traffic police signals.

6. Designated turning points are there to switch to the other side of the road. Do not just turn from anywhere. It will violate traffic laws.

7. The traffic signals might be confusing sometimes. In such cases do not move ahead until you hear the car from behind hooting.

8. Please check that the car you are driving has a fire extinguisher and vehicle breakdown signal plates (called triangle). If don't carry these you are into trouble.

9. Check your car license, insurance, parking, registration and local parking ticket validity.

10. Parking fees varies from region to region and town to town.

Lucky driving.

Tanzania Public Holidays 2007

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January 1 New Year (Monday)
January 12 Zanzibar Revolution Day (Friday)
March 31 * Maulid Day (Tuesday/Wednesday)
April 6 Good Friday (Friday)
April 7 Karume Day (Saturday)
April 9 Easter Monday (Monday)
April 26 Union Day (Thursday)
May 1 Workers Day (Tuesday)
July 7 Saba Saba Day (Saturday)
August 8 Peasants' Day (Wednesday)
October 13* & 14* Idd-El-Fitri (Saturday & Sunday)
October 14 Nyerere Day (Sunday)
December 9 Independence Day (Sunday)
December 25 Christmas Day ( Tuesday)
December 26 Boxing Day (Wednesday)
*All Islamic Holidays subject to sighting of moon.

Arusha

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Arusha is the capital of the Arusha Region, located in the north of Tanzania. It has a population of 270,485 (2002 census). This city is located on a plateau in the Great Rift Valley amidst the Serengeti Plain, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, Olduvai Gorge, Tarangire National Park, and Mount Kilimanjaro National Park.

Geography and climate
Arusha is located by the foot of Mount Meru. Yearly, the temperature ranges from 13 degrees Celsius to 25 degrees Celsius, and the seasons between wet and dry seasons. Due to Arusha's altitude, dry air is prevalent. Arusha experiences an eastern prevailing wind from the Indian ocean, a couple of hundred miles east.

Modern history

Official documents ceding independence to Tanzania were signed by the United Kingdom at Arusha in 1961.The Arusha Declarations for Self Reliance in Tanzania were signed in 1967 in Arusha.The Arusha Accords were signed at Arusha on August 4, 1993 by representatives of competing factions in the Rwandan civil war.In 1994 the UN security council decided by its Resolution 955 of 8 November 1994 that Arusha should host the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda. The establishment of the tribunal with its employees has influenced the local economy of Arusha. The tribunal is expected to end its normal work in 2008 with two more subsequent years for appeals handling.
Arusha officially became a city on 1st July 2006 (Source: Arusha Times http://www.arushatimes.co.tz/2006/19)

Industry and economy

The primary industry of the region is agriculture, with large vegetable and flower producers sending high-quality produce to Europe. Small-scale agriculture was badly hit by the coffee crisis of recent years and is now largely subsistence farming. Arusha has several factories including a brewery, tyre and fibreboard plant, and a large pharmaceuticals maker.
One of the principal industries is tourism, with the city playing host to numerous safari companies, hotels and lodges.

Transport

Arusha is mostly served by Kilimanjaro International Airport for international travellers, some 60km East, approximately half-way to Moshi. The airport provides international and domestic flights. Arusha Airport is a smaller domestic airport in the West of the city.currently undergoing expansion. its serves more than 87,000 passengers yearly, amzingly for its size. It is surrounded by a beautiful drape of hills and lush savanna. There are no passenger train services to or from Arusha but there are regular coaches (buses) to Nairobi, Dodoma and Dar Es Salaam plus other local towns.

Culture

Arusha being one of the most pleasant cities in the world, its exquisite location and beautiful countryside surrounding made it have a lively music scene, notably Tanzanian hip-hop, Mostly performed in Swahili, with various genres influenced by African American music, locally known as Bongo Flava. A good example of this genre is the band, X Plastaz, singers like Bushoke,Mr.Blue, TID etc.. Arusha is home to many of Tanzania's vivid festivals, the yearly fiesta is hosted by a few Tanzanian cooprate sponsors, that attract various artists from around the world. Artists like Shaggy, Ja rule are just a few of one of the world's most popular artists to perform in in the wonderous city of Arusha. Arusha also hosts The annual Arusha nane nane Agricultural show. Nane Nane is one of the many vibrant public holidays in Tanzania, held on August 8th(the 8th of the 8th month, nane nane means "eight eight" in sawhili). Nane Nane,is marked on August 8th every year where farmers and other stakeholders exchange knowledge and business. it attracts up to a half million people every year. Arusha is also known for its vibrant night life, with outstanding local night clubs like, colobus club and the Blue Tripple 'A'.

Independence

2006-11-07T05:20:00.000-08:00

In 1954, Julius Nyerere, a school teacher who was then one of only two Tanganyikans educated abroad at the university level, organized a political party--the Tanganyika African National Union (TANU). In May 1961, Tanganyika became autonomous, and Nyerere became Prime Minister under a new constitution. Full independence was achieved on December 9, 1961. Mr. Nyerere was elected President when Tanganyika became a republic within the Commonwealth a year after independence.

Zanzibar : An early Arab/Persian trading center, Zanzibar fell under Portuguese domination in the 16th and early 17th centuries but was retaken by Omani Arabs in the early 18th century. The height of Arab rule came during the reign of Sultan Seyyid Said, who encouraged the development of clove plantations, using the island's slave labor.

The Arabs established their own garrisons at Zanzibar, Pemba, and Kilwa and carried on a lucrative trade in slaves and ivory. By 1840, Said had transferred his capital from Muscat to Zanzibar and established a ruling Arab elite. The island's commerce fell increasingly into the hands of traders from the Indian subcontinent, whom Said encouraged to settle on the island.

Zanzibar's spices attracted ships from as far away as the U.S. A U.S. consulate was established on the island in 1837. The United Kingdom's early interest in Zanzibar was motivated by both commerce and the determination to end the slave trade. In 1822, the British signed the first of a series of treaties with Sultan Said to curb this trade, but not until 1876 was the sale of slaves finally prohibited.

The Heligoland-Zanzibar Treaty of 1890 made Zanzibar and Pemba a British protectorate, and the Caprivi Strip in Namibia became a German protectorate. British rule through a Sultan remained largely unchanged from the late 19th century until after World War II.

On April 26, 1964, Tanganyika united with Zanzibar to form the United Republic of Tanganyika and Zanzibar, this was renamed the United Republic of Tanzania on October 29, 1964.

United Republic of Tanzania

Zanzibar received its independence from the United Kingdom on December 19, 1963, as a constitutional monarchy under the sultan. On January 12, 1964, the African majority revolted against the sultan and a new government was formed with the ASP leader, Abeid Karume, as President of Zanzibar and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council. Under the terms of its political union with Tanganyika in April 1964, the Zanzibar Government retained considerable local autonomy.
To form a sole ruling party in both parts of the union Nyerere merged TANU with the Zanzibar ruling party, the Afro-Shirazi Party (ASP) of Zanzibar to form the CCM (Chama cha Mapinduzi-CCM Revolutionary Party), on February 5, 1977. The merger was reinforced by principles enunciated in the 1982 union constitution and reaffirmed in the constitution of 1984.

Colonialism

2006-11-07T05:17:00.000-08:00

German colonial interests were first advanced in 1884. Karl Peters, who formed the Society for German Colonization, concluded a series of treaties by which tribal chiefs in the interior accepted German "protection." Prince Otto von Bismarck's government backed Peters in the subsequent establishment of the German East Africa Company.

In 1886 and 1890, Anglo-German agreements were negotiated that delineated the British and German spheres of influence in the interior of East Africa and along the coastal strip previously claimed by the Omani sultan of Zanzibar. In 1891, the German Government took over direct administration of the territory from the German East Africa Company and appointed a governor with headquarters at Dar es Salaam.

While the German colonial administration brought cash crops, railroads, and roads to Tanganyika, European rule provoked African resistance. Between 1891 and 1894, the Hehe — lead by Chief Mkwawa — resisted German expansion, but were eventually defeated. After a period of guerrilla warfare, Mkwawa himself was cornered and committed suicide in 1898. The resistance culminated in the Maji Maji Rebellion of 1905–1907. The rebellion, which temporarily united a number of southern tribes and ended only after an estimated 120,000 Africans had died from fighting or starvation, is considered by most Tanzanians to have been one of the first stirrings of nationalism, although many historians dispute this conclusion. Research has shown that traditional hostilities played a large part in the rebellion.

During World War I, an invasion attempt by the British was thwarted by German General Paul von Lettow-Vorbeck at the Battle of Tanga, who, after the battle, mounted a drawn out guerrilla warfare campaign against the British.

German colonial domination of Tanganyika ended after World War I when control of most of the territory passed to the United Kingdom under a League of Nations mandate. Added to it was the west coast of Lake Victoria, which had previously been part of the German colonies of Rwanda and Burundi.

After World War II, Tanganyika became a UN trust territory under British control. Subsequent years witnessed Tanganyika moving gradually toward self-government and independence.

About Tanzania

2006-11-07T05:05:00.000-08:00

Tanzania : officially the United Republic of Tanzania (Jamhuri ya Muungano wa Tanzania in Swahili), is a country on the east coast of Africa. It is bordered by Kenya and Uganda on the north, Rwanda, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of the Congo on the west, and Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique on the south. To the east it borders the Indian Ocean. The country is named after Tanganyika, its mainland part, and the Zanzibar islands off its east coast. The country has been a member of the Commonwealth since gaining independence in 1961. In 1964, Tanganyika united with Zanzibar, forming the United Republic of Tanganyika and Zanzibar, later renamed to the United Republic of Tanzania. In 1996, Tanzania's capital was officially moved from Dar es Salaam to Dodoma, although many government offices still remain in the old capital.

History : Tanzania was an erstwhile colony and part of Germany from the 1880s to 1919. It was then a British colony from 1919 to 1961. After its independence, Tanganyika and Zanzibar merged to form the United Republic of Tanzania on April 26, 1964. Prior to 1995, one party rule was in force. Only after 1995 first multiparty democratic elections was held in the country since the 1970s.

Northern Tanganyika's famed Olduvai Gorge has provided rich evidence of the area's prehistory, including fossil remains of some of humanity's earliest ancestors. Discoveries suggest that East Africa may have been the site of human origin.
Little is known of the history of Tanganyika's interior during the early centuries. The area is believed to have been inhabited originally by ethnic groups using a click-tongue language similar to that of Southern Africa's Bushmen and Hottentots. Although remnants of these early tribes still exist, most were gradually displaced by Bantu farmers migrating from the west and south and by Nilotes and related northern peoples. Some of these groups had well-organized societies and controlled extensive areas by the time the Arab traders, European explorers, and missionaries penetrated the interior in the first half of the 19th century.
The coastal area first felt the impact of foreign influence as early as the first centuries of the current era. Rhapta, the southernmost marketplace of Azania, was familiar to merchants of the Roman period, which has been located at points from Tanga south to the delta of the Rufiji River.
Later, Arab traders established posts the coast, perhaps as early as the 8th century. By the 12th century, traders and immigrants came from as far away as Persia (now Iran) and India. The natives built a series of highly developed city and trading states along the coast, the principal one being Kibaha, a settlement that held ascendancy until the Portuguese destroyed it in the early 1500s.

The Portuguese navigator Vasco da Gama explored the East African coast in 1498 on his voyage to India. By 1506, the Portuguese claimed control over the entire coast. This control was nominal, however, because the Portuguese did not colonize the area or explore the interior. Assisted by Omani Arabs, the indigenous coastal dwellers succeeded in driving the Portuguese from the area north of the Ruvuma River by the early 18th century. Claiming the coastal strip, Omani Sultan Seyyid Said (l804-56) moved his capital to Zanzibar in 1832.

The interior regions were still largely unknown to Europeans. A part of the Great Lakes region the western shore of Lake Victoria consisted of many small kingdoms, most notably Karagwe and Buzinza, which were domainted by their more powerful neighbours Rwanda, Burundi, and Buganda. European exploration of the interior began in the mid-19th century. Two German missionaries reached Kilimanjaro in the 1840s. British explorers Richard Burton and John Speke crossed the interior to Lake Tanganyika in 1857. David Livingstone, the Scottish missionary-explorer who crusaded against the slave trade, established his last mission at Ujiji, where he was "found" by Henry Morton Stanley, an American journalist-explorer, who had been commissioned by the New York Herald to locate him.