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By The Respondent Reporter
A misleading statement has been circulating on social media, featuring a photo of the Deputy Chairman of the Chadema party, John Heche, addressing the public in Mbeya.
During his speech, he falsely claimed that Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) had been handed over to the people of Oman. This information is completely inaccurate and should be dismissed.
The Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA) would like to set the record straight and inform the public that Kilimanjaro International Airport is fully under the management and supervision of TAA.
This arrangement has been in place since the airport was officially transferred from the former operating company, Kilimanjaro Airports Development Company (KADCO), on November 11, 2023.
This baseless claim appears to be a deliberate attempt to mislead the public. TAA urges political leaders, who are trusted by the people, to ensure they communicate with the public using accurate and verified information.
According to TAA, all operations at Kilimanjaro International Airport are directly managed by the Government of Tanzania, with no changes in ownership or control.
The airport was handed over to TAA to facilitate its development and improve aviation services for the benefit of Tanzanians and the national economy. There is no truth to the claim that Oman now controls the airport.
The Tanzania Airports Authority strongly condemns the spread of false information, which can cause confusion and undermine public trust.
At a time when misinformation can spread quickly, political leaders have a responsibility to provide their followers with truthful information.
Citizens rely on their leaders for accurate guidance, particularly on national issues that affect their daily lives and the country's progress.
TAA also appeals to the media, journalists, and the public at large to be careful and refrain from spreading unverified and misleading information.
Social media has become a powerful platform for news and information, but it also carries the risk of misinformation.
TAA emphasizes the importance of collaborating with the media to prevent the spread of false claims and ensure the public receives accurate news.
Furthermore, TAA reassures the public that it will continue to manage and improve the country’s airports, including Kilimanjaro International Airport.
The authority is dedicated to maintaining international standards of safety, service, and infrastructure, which contribute significantly to the country's economy through the aviation sector.
It is crucial that both political leaders and the public prioritize truth and transparency when communicating.
False claims, such as the one regarding Kilimanjaro International Airport, should be outright rejected, as they only serve to create confusion and erode public trust.
The Tanzania Airports Authority remains committed to ensuring that Tanzania's airports play a vital role in the country’s development, providing essential services to the people of Tanzania.