THE State's side has disclosed that more than 100 witnesses are lined up to testify in the manslaughter case against six businesspeople over the collapse of a multi-storey building on November 16, 2024, at the junction of Mchikichi and Kongo streets in Kariakoo, Dar es Salaam.

When the case came up today at the Kisutu Resident Magistrate’s Court for the reading of witness statements and exhibits to the accused, the Republic’s side informed the court that preparations were not yet complete.

Senior State Attorney Clemence Kato said although the case is expected to feature over 100 witnesses, only half of the statements have so far been processed.

“Your Worships, we request another date to read the witness statements and exhibits to the accused since preparations are still ongoing,” Kato submitted before Senior Resident Magistrate Geofrey Mhini.

The court granted the request, with Magistrate Mhini adjourning the case until October 9, 2025.

According to the Republic’s side, the accused in the case are Lendela Mdete (Mbezi), Zenabu Islam alias Zaibanu (Kariakoo), Ashour Ashour (Ilala), Soster Nziku and Stephen Nziku (Mbezi Beach), and Aloyce Sangawe (Sinza).

They stand charged with causing deaths by negligence after the building linked to them collapsed, killing residents and workers inside.

The Republic’s side further noted that work is still underway to finalize the witness statements before forwarding the case to the High Court for further proceedings, given the seriousness of the charges.