DAR ES SALAAM, Oct. 28 -- AS the sun casts its golden glow over the busy neighbourhoods of Kimara, the air buzzed with anticipation and civic energy.

From Baruti to Korogwe, Kimara Mwisho and Stopover, residents stepped out in large numbers to check their names on the posted voters lists, a crucial exercise as the nation prepares for the upcoming general elections.

At Msewe Primary School, the display centre for Kimara Baruti, residents began arriving as early as 8am.

Sheets listing hundreds of voters names covered the walls and wooden boards. Some leaned in closely, scanning line by line; others smiled in satisfaction upon spotting their names.

“I wanted to confirm my name before the crowd grows,” said Anna Mushi, a food ...