 |
| Sungusungu were warned against ostracizing community members as a form of punishment. Photo: Courtesy |
By Adonis Byemelwa
Shinyanga Regional Commissioner, Anamringi Macha, has called upon the Sungusungu Traditional Security Force to adhere to the country's laws, regulations, and procedures while carrying out their duties. He emphasized the need to abandon practices such as ostracizing community members as a form of punishment.
Accompanied by Shinyanga Regional Administrative Secretary, CP Salum Hamduni, RC Macha delivered these remarks on September 28, 2024, during a gathering of approximately 1,000 people in Manyanda Village, Usanda Ward, Samuye Division in Shinyanga District Council.
The regional boss also urged the Sungusungu to take a proactive role in combating all forms of violence within the community and curbing moral decay among the youth.
"I urge the Sungusungu Traditional Security Force to ensure that they carry out their daily responsibilities under the country's laws and regulations. Stop the practice of ostracizing individuals as part of your punishments. Moreover, be at the forefront of fighting against the erosion of moral values among the youth and preventing any form of violence in our communities," said RC Macha.
He also stressed the importance of each Sungusungu member engaging in income-generating activities alongside their duties. Plans are underway to gather data on the Sungusungu members, their numbers, and their economic activities to facilitate their advancement.
A representative from the President’s Office and a political and social advisor to the President, Ambassador Rajabu Omary, also addressed the gathering, acknowledging President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s recognition and appreciation of the Sungusungu’s role in maintaining peace and security. He noted that under the current administration, the group has been revitalized within the community.
In his remarks, Tanzania's Social Groups Chairman, Idi Ame, revealed plans to introduce Sungusungu competitions at ward, district, and regional levels, to strengthen the force. The winner of these competitions will receive a grand prize, aimed at boosting the morale of the Sungusungu.
Speaking on behalf of Sungusungu members from Shinyanga, Tabora, Simiyu, and Mwanza regions, Shinyanga Sungusungu Coordinator and Commander John Kadama noted that the purpose of the gathering was to encourage more than 500 youth from Manyanda Village to join the force. By doing so, they would help safeguard citizens and their property, ultimately promoting peace, stability, and economic growth, as residents will feel secure at all times.
This gathering is part of an ongoing campaign that has already taken place in Nyamilama Village in Kwimba District, Mwanza; Malampaka in Maswa District, Simiyu; Busangi in Kahama District, Shinyanga; and Itunduru in Igunga District, Tabora. The initiative aims to inspire more youth to join the Sungusungu in the quest for community security and development.