MWE Correspondent
Authorities in Tanzania have confirmed that a body recovered from the Msimbazi River in Dar es Salaam has been identified as that of a missing college student, as police continue investigations into the circumstances surrounding the death.
According to a statement issued on May 3, 2026, by the Tanzania Police Force, the body was discovered floating near Kipawa in Ilala District on April 30 at approximately 3:00 p.m. Local residents alerted authorities after spotting the remains in the river.
The family of the deceased, identified as James Temba, confirmed the identification after visiting the mortuary at Kurasini police barracks, where the body had been taken for preservation and examination. Relatives said identification was made through physical features.
Speaking at the family home in Tabata Chang’ombe, the father, Rogers Temba, said his son went missing on April 29 after failing to return from college, which he described as unusual behaviour. Repeated attempts to contact him were unsuccessful, prompting concern among family members before the matter was reported to police.
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Police have since recorded statements from relatives as part of ongoing investigations into the incident. Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the circumstances leading to the death.
James Temba was a student at the Institute of Finance Management, where he was pursuing a degree in Economics and Finance.
Following identification, arrangements are being made for the transfer of the body to Kilimanjaro for burial.
Investigations are continuing as police work to establish the events leading up to the discovery of the body.
