President orders airport scanners repaired quickly

Dar es Salaam. President John Magufuli yesterday ordered Ministry for Works, Transport and Communication in collaboration with security organs to immediately fix security scanning machines at Julius Nyerere International Airport, Terminal One.

According to a statement released by acting head of the State House Directorate of Communication Gerson Msigwa, the Head of State gave the order after conducting an impromptu visit at the terminal upon his arrival from Uganda. At least two machines for scanning passengers and cargo were defective. The officials at the terminal failed to give clear clarifications on the situation until the President ordered them to reveal the truth.

“I don’t like people who tell lies, I have decided to come here because I know something is wrong; can’t you ask yourself that question ?” said President Magufuli. Earlier, one of the officials had maintained that only one machine was out of use, but a colleague subsequently revealed that both machines were not working.

President Magufuli said the the sector ministry must collaborate with security organs to fix the situation as soon as possible. “Given this situation, it means if I arrive with a private jet, I could pass through here with minerals, illicit drugs or elephant tusks without any problem,” he said. While in Kampala, President Magufuli congratulated President Yoweli Museveni for being sworn-in for the fifth term. He advised his host to apply ‘design and construct method’ in the construction of oil pipeline from Hoima in Uganda to Tanga. The construction is set to cover a total of 1410 kilometres.

He said the project should involve between five and six contractors so as to be completed on time.