Tanzania:DC Mtatiro Addresses Compensation Controversy for Airport Expansion in Ibadakuli Ward

By Adonis Byemelwa

In Shinyanga, Tanzania, on April 5, 2024, District Commissioner Julius Mtatiro took a decisive step in addressing a growing controversy surrounding compensation issues at the Shinyanga Regional Airport site.

During a public meeting held in the Ibadakuli ward, Mtatiro heard firsthand accounts from residents who claimed they had been unfairly compensated for land acquired by the government for the expansion of the airport.

In a recent development in Shinyanga, a resident of Ibadakuli ward found herself at the center of a compensation debacle that has stirred considerable controversy. Initially offered a mere Sh600,000 for her sizable seven-acre plot to make room for the expansion of the airport, the resident raised objections upon realizing she was being shortchanged. Shockingly, subsequent correspondence from the director revealed that she was entitled to over three million shillings.

"This situation is deeply concerning and cannot be ignored. The relevant authorities must act swiftly and justly to rectify this injustice," emphasized District Commissioner Julius Mtatiro, underlining the need for fairness and accountability in compensation procedures.

Mtatiro's call for urgent action highlights the gravity of the situation and accentuates the importance of ensuring that citizens receive fair and adequate compensation for their land. The revelation of such discrepancies has further fueled public outcry, prompting demands for transparency and accountability in the compensation process.

"Often when citizens come for compensation after assessment, they are initially threatened. Officials treat them as ignorant and powerless. This is unfair. Our President, Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan wants justice to prevail. Change. Follow the law and procedures," Mtatiro emphasized, reflecting on the grievances expressed by the residents.

In response to grievances voiced by residents like Joyce Bala Lukale, who received inadequate compensation for her seven-acre land, District Commissioner Mtatiro has vowed to tackle compensation discrepancies head-on.

 Lukale's disappointment echoed that of many others who felt similarly shortchanged by the compensation process, alleging that the government's offers did not reflect the true value of their land or adequately compensate them for the disruption to their lives.

Mtatiro's commitment to justice and accountability struck a chord with residents who have long felt marginalized by government authorities. His pledge to address the compensation issue underscores the urgency of ensuring fairness in land acquisition processes.

This commitment aligns with Tanzania's legal framework, where the Land Act of 1999 ensures individuals receive full, fair, and prompt compensation for revoked land rights under Section 3(1)(g). Similarly, Article 24 of the Constitution reinforces property rights protection, emphasizing lawful procedures in land acquisition.

Compensation mechanisms, as outlined in the Land Acquisition Act of 1967, mandate fair compensation through compulsory acquisition by the government. Notably, Section 12 safeguards against unjust compensation for improvements made on acquired land.

In addition to addressing compensation issues, Mtatiro also voiced his concerns about the performance of the Rural and Urban Roads Agency (Tarura) in Shinyanga District. He criticized Tarura for delays and inefficiencies in the execution of road projects, citing numerous instances where contractors were absent from project sites.

"Among the areas that I am not satisfied with since I came here as the District Commissioner is the performance of Tarura," Mtatiro lamented. "If they continue like this, we will inform the Director-General because these contractors who have been given the money, which is taxpayers' money, our country's money, to carry out maintenance of various Shinyanga roads, should be seen on-site."

The district boss’ frustration with Tarura's lackluster performance highlighted his commitment to holding government agencies accountable for their actions and ensuring that public funds are used responsibly.

As the meeting progressed, Mtatiro reiterated his commitment to transparency and accountability in local governance. He urged residents to actively engage with their local councils and hold them accountable for addressing their concerns.

"Where were you burying your relatives before? Wasn't everyone burying them in their land? Then continue doing the same," Mtatiro urged, emphasizing the importance of citizen empowerment in local decision-making processes.

In the days following the public meeting, Mtatiro wasted no time taking concrete action to address the compensation issue. He directed the Shinyanga Municipality Council to establish a special camp to handle citizens’ complaints and vowed to oversee a thorough investigation into the matter.

"As the investigation unfolds and corrective measures are implemented, residents remain hopeful for a resolution that upholds their rights and promotes transparency in public service delivery," Mtatiro assured the residents.

The dynamic expansion project underway at Shinyanga Airport, valued at a staggering Sh55.9 billion and generously funded by the European Investment Bank (EIB) in conjunction with the Tanzanian government, has ignited intrigue with its recent amendments amid escalating costs, as highlighted by former Deputy Minister for Works Godfrey Kasekenya.

 As an integral part of a monumental € 50 million initiative, this ambitious endeavor is set to revolutionize infrastructure across five key airports, Shinyanga included, over a visionary 20-year period, as meticulously documented by the Tanzania airports database.

Led by SMEC and CHICO, the project seeks to elevate infrastructure standards, facilitate all-weather operations, and accommodate growing passenger traffic. Meanwhile, District Commissioner Mtatiro's unwavering commitment to resolving compensation issues sets a precedent for local governance accountability, underscoring his dedication to the people of Shinyanga and their welfare.