THE 2025 Uhuru Torch race will shine a spotlight on development projects worth over 10 billion across Babati Town Council and Babati District Council, reinforcing the government’s commitment to grassroots service delivery.

Speaking at a press briefing, Babati District Commissioner Emmanuela Kaganda said the Uhuru Torch will arrive in the region on July 14, inspecting projects in key sectors including health, education, water infrastructure, road construction, and economic empowerment programmes targeting women and youth.

The empowerment initiatives are supported by the statutory allocation of 10 percent of local government revenue, provided as interest-free loans to women, youth, and persons with disabilities.

Kaganda encouraged local residents to turn out in large numbers to welcome the torch and participate in the festivities. The torch will begin its tour in Babati District Council on July 14, before proceeding to Babati Town Council on July 15.

During its tour, the torch will inaugurate, inspect, and lay foundation stones for new, ongoing, and completed projects, assessing their quality, impact, and sustainability.

“The Uhuru Torch is a powerful national symbol that promotes peace, unity, accountability, and development,” said Kaganda. “It reminds us of our shared responsibility in building a prosperous and inclusive Tanzania. We urge citizens to engage with the showcased projects and take ownership of local development.”

She added that the 2025 Uhuru Torch theme is: “Come forward and participate peacefully and calmly in the 2025 General Election”, emphasising civic participation and national unity ahead of the polls.

Anna Bayo, a Babati resident, appealed to government leaders to ensure the projects launched during the torch's visit are monitored beyond the event.

“Too often, after the Uhuru Torch passes, leaders don’t return to follow up on the projects,” she said. “We urge the government to ensure continuous oversight so the intended benefits reach the people.”

The Uhuru Torch, a legacy of Tanzania’s independence, continues to serve as a symbol of national unity and a driver of transparency, accountability, and social progress across the country.