The death toll from the tragic building collapse in Dar es Salaam has risen to 20, according to President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
She announced the updated figure during a visit to the disaster site on Wednesday.
The collapse occurred on Saturday at a four-story building in the bustling Kariakoo district.
The president, who had just returned from the G20 summit in Brazil, expressed her sorrow and concerns over the state of construction practices in the country.
“This tragedy serves as a clear warning,” said President Hassan, addressing shop owners and locals.
“The building’s structure, walls, and materials reflect gross negligence in its construction.”
During her inspection, Hassan observed clear signs of mismanagement in the building’s design.
She emphasized the importance of ensuring safety in all future construction projects, especially in densely populated areas like Kariakoo.
To investigate the causes behind the collapse, the president announced the formation of a 20-member commission.
She assured the public that its findings would be thoroughly reviewed, and necessary actions, including demolishing unsafe buildings, would be taken transparently.
The recovery operation continues, with efforts focused on retrieving bodies and belongings from the rubble.
President Hassan promised that the victims would be laid to rest with dignity, while their personal items would be safeguarded until rightful owners could claim them.
The ongoing cleanup remains a priority, as authorities search for any additional victims in the rubble.
The president’s commitment to swift action underscores the urgency of addressing safety in Tanzania’s growing urban centers.
