The Vice President of the United Republic of Tanzania has ordered the immediate commencement of a special operation to identify and arrest individuals inciting conflicts between farmers and herders in Tunduru District, Ruvuma Region. She further requested a report on the actions taken before the conclusion of her visit to the region.
Speaking at a public rally with the residents of Tunduru, the Vice President stated that the government, led by President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, has heard the citizens’ grievances regarding these conflicts—which have resulted in the deaths of civilians, leaders, and security personnel—and that the time has come to take decisive action to restore peace.
She directed the Ruvuma Regional Commissioner, the Tunduru District Commissioner, and the respective Defense and Security Committees to take action against anyone found to be inciting these conflicts, regardless of their status, position, or political affiliation.
The Vice President noted that some village leaders are allegedly involved in the sale of land and the unauthorized settlement of herders in restricted areas—a situation that fuels recurring conflicts between farmers and herders.
She emphasized that the use of village land must adhere to the law and involve the participation of the local community, rather than being determined by a few individuals pursuing their own personal interests. He explained that the Government continues to seek a permanent solution through a national team and the relevant ministries; however, these efforts must be accompanied by immediate action against those who incite conflicts.
The Deputy Minister for Home Affairs, Hon. Mahmoud, stated that the Government has received these directives and that the Police Force will collaborate with other authorities to ensure that all those found to be involved face legal action.
He noted that approximately 12 people have lost their lives due to these conflicts, while more than 20 police units are currently conducting operations to remove livestock herders from areas where grazing is prohibited under land-use planning schemes.
Separately, the Vice President has ordered strengthened oversight of the project to construct a 220-kilovolt (kV) power transmission line—stretching from Songea through Tunduru and Masasi to Mahumbika—and has directed that the project manager be replaced, citing dissatisfaction with the pace of implementation.
He stated that the Government has already disbursed over 42 billion shillings to the contractor; therefore, there is no justification for the project to continue lagging, especially given that the residents of Tunduru, as well as the Lindi and Mtwara regions, require a reliable power supply for their economic activities. Regarding development in Tunduru District, the Vice President has directed that a request for the construction of a modern market be followed up. The Minister responsible for the President’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG) stated that preparations for the project have reached the stage where a proposal has been submitted to the Planning Commission, with the Government anticipating the commencement of construction in the 2027/2028 financial year.
The Minister further noted that, following an initial assessment, processes are underway to address a request to subdivide the Tunduru District Council into two separate councils.
The Vice President concluded her visit to the Ruvuma Region by assuring the residents that the Government will continue to oversee the implementation of development projects, while simultaneously ensuring the restoration of peace and security, so that citizens may engage in their economic activities without fear.
Issued by
The Office of the Vice President
11 November 2026
Tunduru – Ruvuma.
