In a swift and heartfelt response to the devastating mudslide that swept through Katesh township in Hanang District, Manyara Region, claiming over 60 lives and leaving 116 injured, the Tanzania Mobile Network Operators Association (Tamnoa) has extended a helping hand to the affected community. The association, comprising TTCL, Vodacom, Tigo, Halotel, and Airtel, rallied together to donate TZS 240 million to assist the government's efforts in providing relief to those affected by this tragic incident.
The generous donation facilitated the provision of essential supplies, including 2,000 blankets, vital drinking water, 100 sacks of rice and maize flour (each weighing 50 kilograms), and 50 sacks of beans, aiming to alleviate the immediate hardships faced by the affected individuals and families.
Mr. Nape Nnauye, the Minister for Information, Communication, and Information Technology, gratefully received the donation on behalf of the government in Dar es Salaam. He recalled President Samia Suluhu Hassan's directive to intensify rescue operations, restore infrastructure, and extend support to the victims, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts during such challenging times.
Expressing his gratitude for the prompt response from Tamnoa, Minister Nape praised their commitment and patriotism in aiding fellow Tanzanians confronting distressing situations. He assured that the donation, valued at over TZS 240 million, would be channeled through the Prime Minister's Office, responsible for managing disaster-related matters, ensuring its effective distribution to those in need.
Philip Besiimire, the Chairman of Tamnoa and Managing Director of Vodacom Tanzania, underscored the urgency for compassionate action in response to the tragedy that affected more than 5,600 citizens. He lauded the collective efforts of the mobile operators in mobilizing resources, stating that their combined contribution of over 240 million shillings demonstrated solidarity and immediate support for the affected community.
Besiimire highlighted the broader significance of this collaborative response, emphasizing the strength of unity within Tamnoa and the resilience showcased when individuals come together in times of crisis. He reassured ongoing efforts to maintain connectivity and support the affected families, expressing solidarity and extending heartfelt thoughts and prayers to those impacted by this distressing event.