On the morning of May 23, 2024, an unexpected explosion rocked the Mtibwa Sugar Factory in the Morogoro region of Tanzania, East Africa, resulting in the death of 11 workers. The blast was triggered by an electrical short in a new heating system that caused a steam pipe to rupture, as the technical team was getting the machinery ready for the day’s operations, as reported by regional police chief Alex Mkama.
The fatalities included employees from Kenya, Brazil, and India, emphasizing the factory’s global workforce. Two workers were injured and initially received treatment at Morogoro Hospital before being transferred to Dodoma, the capital city of Tanzania, for more comprehensive medical attention.
“The explosion happened so suddenly,” Mkama shared. “The team was getting ready to start production when the steam pipe burst.”
As a significant sugar producer in Tanzania, the Mtibwa Sugar Factory generates at least 154,324 pounds of sugar annually. In light of the explosion, which occurred around 1:30 AM local time, the factory has halted all operations pending an investigation. The blast caught the technical crew by surprise in the control room.
Dr. David Ruchamisa, who provided initial medical aid to the injured workers, classified their condition as critical. “They have injuries to the face, chest, abdomen, legs, and hands. Their condition required immediate transfer to a better-equipped facility in Dodoma,” he explained.
This incident has deeply affected the factory, with Factory Workers’ Association representative Nicolaus Ngowi expressing profound grief. “This tragedy deeply saddens the association and the workers. We urge everyone to cooperate during this difficult time and prioritize safety in the workplace,” he stated.
In response to this tragedy, the Mtibwa Sugar Factory declared three days of mourning and committed to covering all funeral expenses for the deceased. The factory’s Board of Directors Chairman, Seif Seif, affirmed the company’s pledge to support the victims’ families and take preventive measures to avert future incidents.
“Our hearts go out to the families of those who lost their lives. We will do everything we can to support them during this difficult period,” Seif said. “We are taking immediate steps to review and enhance our safety protocols.”
This incident has highlighted the essential need for rigorous safety procedures in industrial settings. The factory’s decision to cease production underlines the seriousness of addressing the incident and its subsequent effects.
Juma Palamba, an electrician and survivor of the explosion, narrowly avoided the blast as he had stepped out of the control room to take a phone call. “It was a matter of seconds. If I hadn’t left the room, I wouldn’t be here today,” Palamba recounted.
The bodies of the deceased have been transported to the factory’s hospital mortuary, pending further arrangements. The deceased foreign nationals will be moved to Dar es Salaam, with assistance from their respective embassies for repatriation.
