Shopkeepers’ Strike Extends to Second Day, Negotiations Stall Talks between shopkeepers and authorities have dragged on as the strike entered its second day, leaving businesses shuttered and shoppers frustrated. The strike was initiated by the Shopkeepers’ Association to protest against exorbitant taxes and alleged harassment by law enforcement. Shopkeepers have vowed to continue their protest until their demands are met. Negotiations between the association and government representatives took place on Sunday, but failed to yield a resolution. Both sides have reportedly hardened their positions, with the shopkeepers demanding immediate tax reductions and the government refusing to budge. As the strike continues, the impact on the local economy is becoming increasingly evident. The deserted streets and empty storefronts have led to a severe decline in foot traffic and potential sales. Retailers, particularly those in the non-essential sector, are facing significant losses. Meanwhile, shoppers have expressed their frustration with the prolonged strike. Many have been struggling to find essential items and have called on both parties to reach a compromise. “We understand the shopkeepers’ concerns, but it’s not fair to hold the entire community hostage,” said one local resident. “We need our businesses to be open so that we can continue our daily lives.” Authorities have appealed to the shopkeepers to end their protest, emphasizing the negative consequences it is having on the local economy. However, the association has remained defiant, stating that they will not back down until their demands are met. As the strike enters its second day, it remains unclear when or how it will be resolved. Both sides have dug in their heels, and there seems to be little room for compromise. The extended stalemate is likely to continue to hurt businesses and inconvenience residents until an agreement can be reached.Merchants’ Strike Continues, Optimism RemainsMerchants’ Strike Continues, Optimism Remains Several stores in Dar es Salaam remained closed on Tuesday as the merchants’ strike entered its second day. The strike began in response to alleged harassment by the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), which has been confiscating traders’ products. In Kariakoo, where the strike originated, some traders had closed their businesses since Monday to pressure the government to address their grievances. The strike has since spread to some areas of Mbeya, Dodoma, and Mwanza. Khamis Livembe, national president of traders, expressed optimism that ongoing negotiations with several government ministries will soon yield positive results. He stated that agreements have been reached on some issues, while others are still being discussed. Livembe urged traders to consider reopening their shops despite the ongoing negotiations, emphasizing the negative impact the strike has already had on customers. However, some merchants in Kariakoo maintained that they would continue their strike until their concerns are addressed. They expressed willingness to endure losses in order to send a message to the government. The strike has disrupted supply and demand in Kariakoo, leading to increased prices for some products. Customers have expressed frustration as they seek alternative sources for their purchases. The government has responded to the strike by suspending EFD inspections and electronic tax stamp activities in the Kariakoo revenue region. Minister of State Kitila Mkumbo announced that a revised procedure for these activities is being developed. Other demands of the traders include the consolidation of taxes into a single collection system, reduction of fines, and cessation of product confiscations and disputes over financial statements. Negotiations between trader representatives and government officials are ongoing, including meetings with the Prime Minister and Parliamentary Budget Committee. A statement on the agreed-upon resolutions is expected to be released following the conclusion of these talks.Talks between shopkeepers and government officials dragged on into the second day of a strike that has paralyzed businesses across the city. The strike began yesterday when shopkeepers closed their doors in protest of a new tax on small businesses. The government has refused to back down, saying the tax is necessary to fund essential services. As the strike continues, both sides remain entrenched in their positions. Shopkeepers say they are willing to stay on strike indefinitely until the government agrees to their demands. The government, on the other hand, says it will not tolerate illegal activity and will take action to ensure that businesses reopen. The strike has had a significant impact on the city’s economy. Many businesses have been forced to close, and those that remain open are reporting a sharp decline in sales. The strike has also led to shortages of some essential goods, such as food and medicine. The government has urged shopkeepers to return to work, saying that the strike is hurting the city’s economy. The shopkeepers, however, say they are determined to continue their strike until the government meets their demands. It is unclear how long the strike will continue. Both sides are dug in, and there is no sign of a compromise.