Blast at Tanzanian Sugar Factory Claims 11 Lives

By Caroline Ameh 

A sugar factory in Tanzania’s eastern district of Mvomero witnessed an explosion that claimed the lives of eleven individuals and left two others injured. The incident occurred when a heavy-duty steam pipe burst during the commencement of production on Wednesday night, according to statements from the fire and rescue team.

Among the casualties are nationals from Brazil, India, China, and Kenya, in addition to Tanzanians, highlighting the international scope of the tragedy. Regional police commander Alex Mkama confirmed that investigations into the cause of the explosion are underway.

The blast occurred around 01:00 local time on Thursday, at a facility operated by Mtibwa Sugar Estates Limited, a prominent sugar manufacturer in Tanzania.

All the victims were identified as electrical and machine staff who were present in the control room at the time of the incident.

In response to the tragedy, Mtibwa Sugar Company has halted all production activities at the affected factory.

The bodies of the deceased have been transferred to the factory’s hospital mortuary as authorities continue to probe the circumstances surrounding the explosion.