Mbeya Approves Plan to Split Dr. Tulia’s Constituency

Mbeya Initiates Process to Split Dk Tulia's Constituency

Tuesday, March 11, 2025

Mbeya – The Mbeya City Council has officially proposed the division of the Mbeya Urban Constituency, currently represented by Speaker of the Tanzanian Parliament, Dr. Tulia Ackson, to create a new Uyole Constituency in preparation for the October 25, 2025 General Election.

If the process is completed and meets the necessary criteria, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will officially declare Uyole as a new electoral constituency. This move aligns with the long-standing demands of Mbeya Urban residents, who have sought better administrative and political representation due to the constituency's vast population and geographical size.

Background of the Proposal

On May 3, 2023, during a parliamentary session in Dodoma, Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Office (Policy, Parliament, and Coordination), Ummy Hamisi Nderiananga, revealed that Dr. Ackson was among the MPs who had submitted requests to split their constituencies. The justification for these requests was the rapid population growth and the extensive size of the current constituencies, which hinder effective governance and service delivery.

The issue was raised in Parliament by Special Seats MP Sophia Mwakagenda, who sought clarification on when the government would officially implement the division of Mbeya Urban.

City Council Approves the Initiative

During a special session of the Mbeya City Council on March 11, 2025, John Nchimbi, speaking on behalf of the City Executive Director, confirmed that the council had received a directive from INEC regarding the potential split.

According to Nicodemus Tindwa, Head of Human Resources and Administration, the proposal was carefully analyzed by city management, leading to the decision to separate Uyole from Mbeya Urban.

“Dividing this constituency will enhance political representation, ensuring efficient and prompt service delivery to citizens. We have assessed the demographic distribution and propose that Mbeya Urban will retain 600,000 residents, while the new Uyole Constituency will accommodate 400,000," Tindwa explained.

He further noted that Mbeya Urban currently has a population of approximately 682,264 people, excluding temporary residents engaged in economic and social activities.

Proposed Boundaries for Mbeya Urban and Uyole

With the proposed restructuring, Mbeya Urban will consist of 23 wards and a population of 254,746, while Uyole will be formed with 13 wards and 286,857 residents.

Mbeya Urban Wards

• Forest, Ghana, Iganzo, Isanga, Itagano, Itende, Itiji, Iwambi, Iyela, Iyunga, Iziwa, Kalobe, Maanga, Mabatini, Maendeleo, Majengo, Mbalizi Road, Nonde, Nsoho, Nzovwe, Ruanda, Sinde, Sisimba.

Uyole Wards

• Mwansenkwa, Ilemi, Ilomba, Mwakibete, Iduda, Iganjo, Igawilo, Isyesye, Itezi, Mwasanga, Nsalaga, Tembela, Uyole.

Local Leaders and Residents Welcome the Decision

The announcement was met with widespread approval among local leaders and residents. Nsalaga Ward Councilor, Daud Ngogo, emphasized that the demand for a new constituency had been an ongoing struggle since 2023.

"Creating this constituency will unlock new economic and development opportunities for the residents. It will also pave the way for an additional municipal council, ensuring easier access to essential services," Ngogo stated.

Special Seats Councilor, Agatha Ngole, echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the division would improve road infrastructure, healthcare facilities, water supply, and other essential services.

“We have long awaited this moment. The addition of another MP will enhance the efficiency of governance, ensuring citizens receive services more easily," Ngole added.

Expert Analysis on Political and Electoral Implications

Political analyst Chifu Mwaihojo Mwambipile welcomed the move but advised voters to prioritize competence over party affiliation when electing new leaders.

"Voters must focus on electing leaders with a vision for development rather than those who cater to specific interest groups. The government can work with anyone committed to driving positive change," Mwambipile emphasized.

As the proposal advances, residents and local authorities remain hopeful that the new Uyole Constituency will soon be formally recognized, allowing for more streamlined governance and improved service delivery in the region.