SINCE 2007, the interfaith approach to development led by the Norwegian Church Aid (NCA) in collaboration with the Interfaith Standing Committee on Economic Justice and Integrity of Creation (ISCEJIC) has empowered Tanzania community through research, advocacy and economic justice.

 ISCEJIC is a faith-based committee in Tanzania that is made up of the Christian Council of Tanzania (CCT), the Tanzania Episcopal Conference (TEC), and the Muslim Council of Tanzania (BAKWATA).

The interfaith approach to development is important because it unites diverse religious communities to address pressing social and economic issues in a collaborative and culturally resonant way.

Religious organizations often have deep roots within communities, allowing interfaith initiatives to reach a wide audience, including marginalized groups. 

Interfaith groups bring a strong ethical perspective, emphasizing values like justice, peace, compassion, and accountability. By prioritizing ethics, they champion a form of development that considers not only economic growth but also social fairness and human dignity.

They often advocate for structural change, including tax justice, environmental sustainability and equitable health policies. Their collective voice adds weight to these issues, influencing policy decisions and fostering reform at local, national, and even international levels.

Recently, NCA hosted a special forum with partners to celebrate the achievements and lessons of the interfaith approach, strengthening civil society; exploring its current and future potentials and reflect on the relevance and significance of   interfaith approaches for development.

Addressing social injustices in the society and be a voice for voiceless was among the important issues which were discussed and emphasised during the forum. Religious leaders were reminded to work on the since they are among their duties.

Retired ISCEJIC Chairman, Bishop Stephen Munga, shared reflections on interfaith efforts in Tanzania, highlighting their commitment to justice and truth. “We stood up for justice and let the truth speak without harming or glorifying anyone,” he stated, attributing this dedication to the success they celebrate today.

Bishop Munga emphasized that the honour of interfaith work lies in driving changes that positively impact lives. He stressed the importance of ethics as a fundamental pillar in addressing social injustices to achieve positive outcomes.

Sheikh Nuru Mruma, Secretary General of the Muslim Council of Tanzania (BAKWATA), added that interfaith collaboration has led to significant changes in areas like health and mining. 

“With support from NCA, interfaith efforts continue to provide education to raise awareness, enabling people to recognize and exercise their basic rights, including active participation in election issues,” Sheikh Nuru explained.

At the conference, Canon Rev. Dr Moses Matonya from the Christian Council of Tanzania (CCT) expressed concerns that, despite interfaith efforts, some community members still suffer from injustices. He called on development stakeholders to join hands to reach more people and ensure they receive their rights. 

Rev. Canon Matonya noted that interfaith leaders conduct research and consult experts before taking action, ensuring impactful outcomes for the community.

In his presentation on the role of interfaith work in strengthening Tanzanian civil society, Dr Camilius Kasala from the Tanzania Episcopal Conference (TEC) underscored that religious leaders should emphasize development through obedience to God, hard work, and strategic planning. He challenged civil society organizations (CSOs) to be known for upholding justice, peace, and love in their work.

Father Dr Charles Kitima, TEC’s General Secretary, noted that the interfaith coalition's structure is core strength. He assured that their work aligns with Tanzania’s constitution, providing a voice for Tanzanians who may feel unheard. 

Father Kitima also expressed concern over low civic awareness and stressed the need for more education to help citizens understand their rights and hold authorities accountable. He pointed to Tanzania’s history of overcoming challenges through dialogue and urged this legacy to continue in driving positive change.

Bishop Nelson Kisare of the Mennonite Church of Tanzania and Chairman of the Interfaith Council reminded those in positions of influence to act justly, serve the voiceless, and speak out against injustice. 

“We must condemn societal injustices and not remain silent when bad things happen. Silence enables harmful practices,” he declared.

The interfaith coalition has tackled critical issues such as tax justice, health policy, and environmental governance. Their publications, including Golden Opportunity (2008), Gold or Our People (2010), One Billion Dollar Question (2012), and Make it Possible – How Tax Commitments Can Move Tanzania Towards Universal Health Insurance for All (2018), reflect these efforts.

Led by religious leaders, the interfaith coalition’s advocacy extends to both regional and global levels, addressing issues like tax justice, debt relief, and calling for a UN Tax Convention to establish fair global tax standards. 

The coalition’s efforts have been supported by partners such as the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Tanzania, Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (NORAD), United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). Their contributions have played an essential role in advancing these goals.