Tanzania Roundup: Diabetes crisis, drones in farming, life under US raids

Tanzania battles soaring diabetes

Tanzania is facing a sharp rise in diabetes cases, with uneven access to insulin worsening the burden on patients, especially in rural areas. Data from the National Health Information System (DHIS2) show the number of people living with diabetes climbed from 680,445 in 2021 to 863,741 in 2025, a 27 percent increase. Speaking at the International Conference on Access and Distribution of Insulin (ACCISS) in Unguja, Zanzibar, Vice President Hemed Suleiman Abdulla said equitable access to insulin remains critical. “Diabetes is a global health challenge… ensuring equitable access to life-saving insulin remains essential,” he said. More than 2.9 million Tanzanians live with diabetes, with over 10,000 relying on insulin to survive.

Samia pushes Africa-Caribbean cooperation

President Samia Suluhu Hassan has advanced Tanzania’s economic diplomacy at the World Governments Summit in Dubai, holding talks with Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne and UN Tourism leadership. Discussions focused on strengthening Africa-Caribbean ties, expanding trade, investment, aviation connectivity, tourism, and security cooperation. Prime Minister Browne praised Tanzania’s handling of recent post-election security issues, noting that the formation of an independent Commission of Inquiry reflected “commitment to accountability and constitutional order.” President Samia also highlighted ongoing reconciliation and constitutional reform efforts.  

Drone technology in agriculture

Tanzania has officially introduced drones as part of efforts to modernise agriculture and increase productivity. Prime Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba launched the initiative in Dar es Salaam at the African Conference on Sustainable Use of Agricultural Tools. Officials said the drones can spray up to 3.5 acres in just 10 minutes and carry up to 60 litres or 60 kilograms of agricultural inputs. The drones will be operated through partnerships involving the Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI), the Cashew Board and crop regulatory authorities.  

Routine US immigration raids

Tanzanian communities in the United States are increasingly living under fear as immigration enforcement operations intensify. What were once sporadic arrests have become routine daytime raids in workplaces, transport hubs and streets. Many Tanzanians have withdrawn from public life, stopped posting online, or avoided community gatherings. “I just feel like they could track me online,” said a Tanzanian resident in New York. In Minnesota, several Tanzanians have reportedly been detained and transferred to a Texas deportation camp, while others describe frequent ID checks. Community members note ICE restrictions, including the requirement for a judicial warrant to enter private homes.

Uganda secures $6.3m meteorological upgrade

Uganda has secured a $6.3 million UN-backed grant to modernise its weather infrastructure through the Systematic Observation Financing Facility (SOFF). The project will improve forecasting, expand compliance with global observation standards, and strengthen nowcasting capacity for extreme weather alerts. Officials said shifting rainfall patterns and rising temperatures underscore the urgency of stronger climate resilience across the region.