Moshi/Arusha. A mystery that is causing headaches for many people in the northern regions of Tanzania, is why sugar is still being sold at inflated prices, despite being available in the market.
There are several possible explanations for the shortage, including smuggling to neighboring countries, hoarding by businesses, or its use in industrial applications.
The Regional Commissioner of Kilimanjaro, Nurdin Babu, has warned that businesses that are found to be hoarding sugar will be prosecuted.
The price of sugar in the three northern regions of Kilimanjaro, Arusha, and Manyara is currently between Sh3,500 and Sh4,000 per kilogram.
Mwajuma Jumanne, a resident of Msaranga in Moshi Municipal Council, said she does not understand what the problem is, but she has heard that TPC Sugar Factory is producing sugar and supplying it to the market. She called on security forces to investigate.
“I am told that our neighbors are facing a shortage of sugar. Of the 15 factories they have, only three are currently operating. The price is not less than Sh5,000 per kilogram. That is where the problem starts,” said Mwajuma.
TPC Sugar Factory Managing Director Jaffary Ally said he is not sure why sugar is in short supply in the northern regions, despite the factory being in operation.
“What I know is that we have sold the sugar to distributors, who are responsible for distributing it. I think they are the ones who should be asked. We have fulfilled our obligations and the price at the factory is not even Sh2,100 per kilogram,” said Jaffary.
“The daily demand for the three regions of Kilimanjaro, Arusha, and Manyara is 8,100 tons and we have supplied 8,200 tons. So, what is causing the shortage? I urge an investigation to be conducted to find out where the sugar is going,” he emphasized.
Some residents believe that sugar is being smuggled to neighboring countries.
“I think this is happening and I urge the authorities to help us. I am worried about two things. One, there are some factories that are using this sugar instead of the white sugar. Two, some of the sugar is being smuggled to neighboring countries,” said Marysiana Charles.
