The decision to demolish a 200-year-old historic mosque in southern Tanzania has been reversed following public outcry.
Mbeya Regional Commissioner Juma Homera informed an AA reporter that the mosque, known as “Msikiti Mkongwe” or “Old Mosque,” will remain a tourism center.
Homera stated that the demolition decision for the mosque has been withdrawn and efforts to preserve it have begun. He noted that, given the area’s historical significance and the desire of local residents to protect it, the National Roads Agency has been instructed to safeguard the site.
He assured that the mosque will be preserved and that residents can continue to live in the area. Homera emphasized that the mosque is in good condition and will remain standing after renovations, declaring, “The mosque will not be demolished; it will remain a historical site. Visitors will be welcomed and guided by the mosque’s imams. We are working to promote this 198-year-old mosque further.”
The initial decision to partially demolish the historic mosque for road expansion had sparked significant backlash in the country.