I want to be in political kitchen to serve people-Jackline

ARUSHA: IN the heart of Arumeru East, where the majestic Mount Meru casts its towering shadow, a new kind of political energy is stirring — one led by Jackline Kimambo.

She is a determined woman who says she’s ready to cook up real change where it matters most: In the political kitchen.

Ms Kimambo, Chama cha Ukombozi wa Umma (CHAUMMA) parliamentary candidate, is the only woman vying for the seat in this expansive, geographically diverse constituency.

She says she isn’t just running for office — she’s running with purpose, courage and a vision of justice and transformation.

“I believe politics is the kitchen where everything is cooked,” she says with conviction. “And I want to be in that kitchen to serve the people of Arumeru East with dignity and professionalism.”

Kimambo’s entry into politics is more than just a campaign — it’s a statement. She says her inspiration stems from the ongoing national call by President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who has encouraged more women to step into leadership roles. For Kimambo, that call hit home.

“I’m answering the President’s call. We, as women, must rise — not just to be seen, but to lead and bring solutions,” she states.

Though she admits Arumeru East remains deeply influenced by patriarchal norms and is geographically challenging, Kimambo says she has already won the trust of key community groups, including youth, women, elders and even traditional leaders.

“This acceptance shows me that change is possible — and that our people are ready for it,” she says.

With a Diploma in Journalism from Fanikiwa Journalism School (formerly Arusha Journalism School), Ms Kimambo has long understood the power of voice and visibility. But her passion now lies in amplifying the needs of her constituents.

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Top on her agenda is the water crisis. Despite being the source of 99 per cent of Arusha Region’s water — thanks to the springs of Mount Meru — residents of Arumeru East still suffer from limited access to clean and safe water. “It’s unfair,” she says firmly. “If we are protecting the source, then we should be the first to benefit.”

The state of roads is another sore point. According to Kimambo, most rural roads are pitted with gullies and potholes, making transportation a nightmare — especially during the rainy season.

“In the rains, they’re impassable. In the dry season, dust brings respiratory issues, especially for children and the elderly. I will push for proper rehabilitation and gravel compaction to make them passable year-round,” she pledges.

She also brings a strong background in finance, having worked for three years at Brac Financial Institution within the constituency.

That experience, she says, opened her eyes to the imbalance in land ownership and usage in the area.

“There are vast tracts of land held by absentee investors who do nothing with it,” she notes. “This land should be reclaimed and returned to the people for farming and other productive ventures.”

She doesn’t mince words about her intentions if elected: “I will advise the President to revoke ownership of undeveloped land, because the law is clear — use it or lose it.”

Another growing concern for Kimambo is the frequent encroachment of wild animals from the nearby Arusha National Park into human settlements. Residents — including schoolchildren — often face danger from such encounters.

“We understand the park brings in national revenue, but so do our people contribute to this nation. There must be a policy that balances conservation with the safety of human life,” she emphasises.

Ms Kimambo isn’t just representing herself — she’s part of a growing movement of women leaders within CHAUMMA. As the party’s Arusha Regional Secretary, she proudly highlights that women are contesting parliamentary seats in Arumeru East, Arumeru West, Karatu and Longido. Even the party’s presidential running mate, Devotha Minja, is a woman.

“CHAUMMA walks the talk. We don’t just speak about gender equality — we practice it,” she asserts. “This is why I believe CHAUMMA is the party of the future. It has visionary policies, inclusive leadership, and real solutions.”

As elections draw nearer, Kimambo urges the people of Arumeru East and the broader Arusha Region to vote for change — not just for the sake of change, but for a better future grounded in equity, opportunity and action.

“CHAUMMA is here to liberate the people,” she says passionately. “We are not just another party. We are the alternative Tanzania needs — and I am ready to serve.”