DODOMA – Tanzania’s youth are being called upon to become the driving force behind the nation's future, with senior government officials urging them to embrace discipline, hard work, and innovation. At a national event held in Dodoma to mark International Youth Day on August 12, 2025, Deputy Permanent Secretary Zuhura Yunus declared that the country's development hinges on the active participation of its young population.

"Your contribution is proof that the Tanzania of today and tomorrow is being built by the efforts of its youth," Ms. Yunus affirmed, underscoring the government's commitment to empowering this vital demographic.

With the 2022 census revealing that young people account for a staggering 34.4 percent of the population—more than 20 million individuals—their potential is an invaluable resource for achieving the ambitious goals outlined in the newly launched National Development Vision 2050. The government has already laid the groundwork to nurture this talent, with a multi-pronged approach that includes policy reform, educational enhancements, and direct financial support.

Ms. Yunus highlighted several key initiatives aimed at creating an enabling environment for young people. These include the implementation of the National Youth Development Policy and the Employment Policy, as well as a dedicated focus on strengthening the education system. By prioritizing quality learning from primary school to higher education and vocational training (VETA), the government is ensuring that youth are equipped with the skills needed to compete in a rapidly evolving job market.

Beyond education, the government is also providing tangible support to help young entrepreneurs get off the ground. Empowerment programs such as the Youth Development Fund (YDF) and local government allocations are making capital more accessible. However, Director of Youth Development, Suleiman Mvunye, noted a critical challenge: a significant number of YDF loan recipients have failed to repay, which "delays access for other youth." He urged all young people to pursue their ambitions responsibly and through lawful means.

The officials also emphasized the importance of technology and peace. With the updated National Youth Development Policy highlighting the importance of ICT, Ms. Yunus encouraged youth to leverage technology for learning, self-employment, and innovation. Furthermore, with this year being a general election year, she called on all young people to participate peacefully and act as guardians of the nation's security and harmony.

This year's International Youth Day theme, "Youth Workforce for Sustainable Development," perfectly aligned with the UN's call for "Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond." The message from Dodoma was clear: Tanzania's youth are not just beneficiaries of development—they are its architects. By applying discipline and hard work to the opportunities presented by the government, they have the power to transform both their own lives and the prosperity of the nation.

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