"Unsafe buildings to be demolished" - Tanzania's President

By Osoro Nyawangah, DAR ES SALAAM Tanzania

Tanzania’s President, Samia Hassan has ordered all unsafe buildings in the economic hub of Dar es Salaam to be demolished if investigations reveal structural flaws or negligence in observing construction regulations.

Inspecting the site of the collapsed building in Kariakoo area in the city yesterday, the president reiterated that the government will not hesitate to take decisive action if gross negligence or non-compliance with safety standards is confirmed.

 “As of 9 a.m. today, we have lost 20 of our people. The government, in collaboration with the affected families, is ensuring that the victims are laid to rest with dignity.” She said.

Paying gratitude to the spirit of solidarity displayed by wide sections of the public in the wake of the tragedy, she said that the incident has touched all Tanzanians and is a blow to the entire nation.

The president, who was attending the G20 summit in the Brazilian citadel of Rio de Janeiro, returned to Dar es Salaam and went directly to the scene of the disaster.

 “I was following the developments closely while abroad, and I appreciate the unity and support Tanzanians have shown throughout this incident. We have come together as one nation in this moment of sorrow,” she stated.

Acknowledging the tireless efforts of the government and rescue teams, she regretted that even with the vast efforts of rescuers a number of people lost their lives.

The president reassured the public of the government’s commitment to uncovering the facts behind the incident, pledging that a comprehensive report would be released, with clear intentions to take strong follow up action after that.

Highlighting shortcomings in regulatory oversight, she said that the building had not undergone a full inspection during its construction—a critical lapse that may have contributed to the tragedy.

“This incident has exposed gaps in our regulatory system. I urge our institutions to strengthen construction and safety regulations to prevent future disasters,” she said.

While still in Brazil, President Samia had already issued several directives related to the collapse and following the site visit, she proceeded to the Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH) to meet with survivors, offer support and assess their recovery progress.

The four-storey building, within the bustling Kariakoo commercial district, collapsed early Saturday, claiming 20 lives as of Wednesday afternoon.

The area was soon cordoned off to facilitate rescue operations and allow experts to investigate the site.