The Tanga City Council has allocated 100m/- for the renovation of the historic Ngamiani Market, following public outcry over leaking structures captured in a viral video circulating on social media.

Acting City Director Lusajo Gwakisa confirmed the funding during a briefing to Tanga Regional Commissioner, Ambassador Dr Batilda Burian, who made an impromptu site visit to the market to assess the situation firsthand.

The viral video, which showed water leaking through damaged portions of the market's roof during recent rains, prompted swift attention from regional leaders. 

According to Gwakisa, the renovation project had already been initiated but faced temporary delays due to requests from traders who preferred to continue operations uninterrupted during the Eid al-Fitr and Easter holiday periods.

“After the holidays, the rains began, and the areas we had scheduled for renovation started leaking — as seen in the video,” Gwakisa said, noting that the work is being handled by Spacetec Corporation Limited, the contractor awarded the project.

His statement was echoed by Shaban Ramadhan, Chairperson of the Ngamiani Market Traders Association, who defended the city council’s efforts and assured that traders are cooperating to address ongoing infrastructure challenges, especially roof leakages.

Ramadhan also criticized the viral video, saying the accompanying audio commentary was misleading and falsely portrayed a lack of action on the part of local authorities.

“We have been working with the city council and understand the situation. The video’s message gave the wrong impression,” he added.

Fellow trader Jonathan Mpanduka voiced frustration over individuals spreading what he described as inaccurate and harmful narratives. He urged the public to recognize the government’s visible efforts, in collaboration with traders, to improve market conditions.

Providing technical insight, Acting City Engineer Jumaa Jumanne said the renovation scope includes replacing deteriorated roofing sheets and gutters, installing more durable materials, and upgrading the market’s drainage system to improve resilience against weather conditions.

During her visit, Ambassador Dr. Burian directed the city leadership to work closely with the contractor to ensure that the renovation continues without displacing traders. 

She also called for speeding up the work and, if necessary, increasing the workforce to complete the project in a timely manner.

“The government is committed to upgrading market infrastructure for both traders and consumers,” she emphasized. “This aligns with the priorities of President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration.”

She assured Ngamiani traders that their concerns are being addressed with urgency and accountability.Ambassador Dr. Burian was accompanied by Tanga District Commissioner Jafari Kubecha and District Administrative Secretary Dalmia Mikaya during the visit.