Pemba set for Uhuru Torch race launch in Isles

ZANZIBAR: PREPARATIONS for the launch of the 2026 Uhuru Torch Race have gathered pace, with President of Zanzibar, Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, expected to officiate the event in Pemba. South Pemba Regional Commissioner (RC), Mr Rashid Hadidi Rashid, said the island stands ready to host the national event and called on residents to turn out in large numbers today.

“The Uhuru Torch race is a national tradition aimed at celebrating the country’s independence, promoting development, and strengthening peace, unity, and solidarity among Tanzanians. Every citizen has a duty to value and uphold the Uhuru Torch,” he said.

He said preparations have been completed, with the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar putting in place arrangements to ensure the event at Gombani Stadium in Chake-Chake proceeds smoothly.

Security agencies, mobilisation teams and cultural performers have also been organised to ensure safety and coordination during the event. Meanwhile, Liaison Officer from the Ministry of Education and Vocational Training in Pemba, Mohamed Nassor Salim, said the ministry continues to promote unity and cooperation through participation in Uhuru Torch activities.

“As the Ministry of Education, we have been providing full support to ensure effective participation in the national Uhuru Torch launch, which will take place at Gombani Sports Ground in Chake Chake, Pemba,” he said.

He added that the launch will be accompanied by inauguration of development projects across Pemba’s four districts, including foundation stone laying for Vitongoji Primary School in Chake Chake District, Mtambile Secondary School in Mkoani District, Kiungoni Primary School in Wete District and Karume Secondary School in Micheweni District.

Mr Salim said the torch will be received with enthusiasm, with students expected to stage mass cultural performances during the event. He added that arrangements have been made to transport teachers and students to Gombani Stadium to participate in the launch.

“We urge wananchi to come out in large numbers and fill Gombani Stadium during the launch of the Uhuru Torch Race, as a show of support to our President when he addresses the nation,” he said.

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Meanwhile in Unguja, preparations to receive the Uhuru Torch are also underway, with West ‘A’ District authorities organising a treeplanting exercise as part of pre-event activities.

Acting Administrative Secretary of West ‘A’ District, Ameir Ali Haji, said the initiative aims to promote environmental conservation, improve air quality and enhance the district’s landscape.

Municipal Director Mohammed Simba Hassan said tree planting requires sustained care and cooperation to ensure long-term benefits. He said about 3,000 tree seedlings, including coconut, teak, mango and almond trees, have been planted along road reserves in newly developed areas

. Mr Hassan also thanked the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources for providing the seedlings, as well as local leaders and youth groups for their participation.

West ‘A’ Mayor, Chumu Shuwari Machano, called for continued protection of the trees and urged residents to support environmental conservation efforts. “A green West ‘A’ is possible if we work together—it is even more achievable,” she said.