KOROGWE District Council in Tanga Region has approved a proposal to divide Korogwe Rural Constituency into two, a move aimed at improving service delivery and addressing challenges posed by the constituency’s large population and challenging geography.

The proposal, presented by Seif Hillal, Councillor for Mashewa Ward, was discussed at the second-quarter council meeting held this week at the new district council headquarters in Makuyuni Village, Makuyuni Ward, Mombo Division.

 Hillal’s proposal was met with widespread support, as councillors expressed concern over the difficulty residents face in accessing essential services due to the vastness of the constituency.

 Amati Ngerera, Councillor for Kalalani Ward, highlighted the difficulties of travelling long distances to reach the district headquarters, noting that the 153-kilometre journey often results in delays for both residents and civil servants.

 He further emphasized that the distance to the district hospital creates a significant barrier to healthcare access, suggesting that the division could make it possible to establish a district-level hospital closer to the people.

 Korogwe District Council Chairman, Sadick Kallaghe, acknowledged the importance of the proposal but also noted that approval at higher levels would be a separate challenge.

 He agreed with other councillors that not only should the constituency be divided, but expansive wards within it should also be split to enhance service delivery.

 Kallaghe additionally referenced ongoing discussions to create a new region from Tanga, with Korogwe as its capital.

 “Requesting is one thing, but getting approval is another. However, as leaders, it is our responsibility to advocate for the interests of the people,” he said.

 He added: “If the proposal for dividing the constituency and certain wards is approved, it will be a major step forward for our community.”

 Hillal explained that the current size of the constituency makes it challenging for the elected representative, MP Timotheo Mnzava, to effectively serve all the residents.

The motion will go through several stages of approval, starting with the council, followed by the District Advisory Committee (DCC), the Regional Administrative Secretary (RAS) before proceeding to the Independent National Electoral Commission.

 Hillal outlined key criteria for the division, including population distribution, communication access and geographical conditions.

 Korogwe Rural Constituency was initially allocated 3,544 square kilometres and Hillal proposed that the area be split into two constituencies: Korogwe West and Korogwe East. The proposed Korogwe West would include Mkomazi, Mkalamo, Magamba-Kwalukonge, Mkumbara, Mazinde, Mombo, Chekelei, Makuyuni, Magila-Gereza, Lutindi, Lewa, and Mlungui wards while Korogwe East would comprise Dindira, Mpale, Mgwashi, Kwashemshi, Mashewa, Kalalani, Hale, Kwagunda, Mnyuzi, Folofolo, Kizara, Bungu, Magoma, Kerenge and Makumba wards.