DAR ES SALAAM: SOME 204 residents from Yombo Dovya in Temeke District, Dar es Salaam, have suffered severe skin burns after reportedly using toxic cooking oil.
The victims, many of whom first experienced intense headaches, sought medical treatment at a local health centre.
Temeke District Commissioner Sixtus Mapunda confirmed the troubling incident and revealed that authorities are investigating the source of the dangerous oil, which was being sold in bulk.
Upon investigating a local business owned by Ally Mpemba, officials found 99 unsealed containers of the cooking oil.
When questioned about the unsealed containers, Mr Mpemba explained that the seals were removed during transportation to prevent damage, a practice that raised suspicions.
As a result, the containers were confiscated, and Mr Mpemba was detained for further questioning. The Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) is currently analysing the cooking oil to determine its safety, with results expected after the investigation concludes.
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Local government eader Denis Moyo shared his swift response after receiving reports of the skin burns. Mr Moyo conducted a door-todoor survey across the subvillage, quickly identifying 204 affected individuals.
He personally escorted many residents to the health centre for treatment. One victim, Fatma Juma, recounted her harrowing experience after using the toxic oil for her business.
“I ate two pieces of chapati, but by 3 pm, my body started to change drastically,” she said.
“My head and neck stiffened, and sores developed in my mouth.” Another victim, Muhamed Jongo, began experiencing severe headaches and vomiting, later suspecting that the cooking oil was the cause of his symptoms.
A local vendor, identified as Kamau or Mangi, admitted to selling the toxic oil, stating that he had initially sold 20 containers.
After receiving complaints from customers, he stopped selling the oil and replaced the remaining stock with new supplies.
However, more complaints soon followed. As authorities continue their investigation, the situation highlights the need for tighter regulation of food products.
