RENOWNED Tanzanian businessman Rostam Aziz has sparked a vital conversation about empowering small-scale entrepreneurs, calling for the establishment of regional seminars aimed at teaching Tanzanians how to run successful businesses, secure loans, and expand their ventures.

Speaking in Dar es Salaam during a “Roundtable” meeting with Tanzanian investors and businesspeople, Rostam emphasised that the responsibility of uplifting small-scale entrepreneurs is not solely the government’s.

 “The government formulates good policies, but we, as the private sector, must collaborate to guide our fellow Tanzanians towards successful business ventures.”

Rostam shared his personal journey as evidence that anyone can succeed in business reavealing that he grew up in modest circumstances in Nzega, Tabora, and wore shoes for the first time at the age of nine while attending a village school.

“If I could make it, many Tanzanians can too,” he confidently stated.

In addition to advocating for seminars, Rostam emphasised the importance of revisiting the national curriculum to better align it with the modern demands of commerce and skills development.

 “I also insist on rethinking the national curriculum to make it suitable for today’s needs, especially in the areas of commerce and skills that support business,” he stated.

Rostam highlighted the crucial role the education system plays in preparing young Tanzanians for the business world. By integrating practical commerce and entrepreneurial skills into the curriculum, schools could empower students to be innovative and capable of running successful ventures.

Rostam further stressed the need for established businesspeople to collaborate with local entrepreneurs through training, mentorship, and providing access to business opportunities.

 He pointed out that many small-scale entrepreneurs face persistent challenges, such as a lack of knowledge about markets and credit, which often leads to bankruptcy before they achieve their goals.

“There is a need to equip them with knowledge and better business strategies so they can expand their activities without fearing bankruptcy. When we work together, we collectively build our nation’s economy,” Rostam asserted.

Rostam’s statement has sparked mixed reactions within the business sector. Many have praised his efforts to promote the empowerment of small-scale entrepreneurs, recognising that such initiatives could boost the local economy and alleviate poverty.

However, some have expressed concerns about the implementation of this idea, calling for careful planning and robust oversight to ensure these seminars and training sessions effectively reach their intended beneficiaries. 

Rostam Aziz’s message reflects a genuine commitment to transforming Tanzania’s business landscape. His personal story serves as an inspiring lesson for all Tanzanians that, with hard work and the right knowledge, anyone has the potential to succeed.

With the establishment of these seminars and reforms to the education system, Tanzania could see a rise in resilient small-scale entrepreneurs who will become key drivers in strengthening the country’s economy.

It is clear that collaboration between the government, the private sector, and citizens will remain the cornerstone of sustainable development.