TANZANIA to join the rest of the world in commemorating International Youth Day 2024 to be held nationally in Dodoma on 12th August 2024, bringing together over 3000 youth.

Deputy Minister of State, Prime Minister’s Office, Labour, Youth, Employment and Disabled, Patrobas Katambi said this year’s IYD commemoration will take place in Dodoma, considering that there will be a representation of all young people in Tanzania, so having it in Dodoma it will easy the coordination since the geographical position of the city will make it comfortable for all the participants.

 He said the national theme, “Youth and Digital Technology Use for Sustainable Development” emphasizes the international community to link youth with digital opportunities because the world is under full use of technology like phones and artificial intelligence, among others.

Addressing a press conference in Dodoma yesterday, Katambi expressed the government’s commitment to supporting youth in the country through different opportunities.

He said the event will be preceded by a youth conference today, 10th August 2024, and tomorrow at the Jakaya Kikwete Convention Centre whereby at least 3000 youths from Zanzibar and the mainland are expected to attend.

“Through the conference, youth shall get the opportunity to discuss different topics including giving their views on National Vision 2050, youth, and the use of digital technology, mental health, and youth psychology.

 He added that on 12th August 2024, the IYD, youth, and different stakeholders will participate in the event to be officiated by Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa.

According to the United Nations, young people are leading the charge in digital adoption and innovation, with three-quarters of those aged 15 to 24 using the internet in 2022, a rate higher than other age groups.

However, disparities persist, particularly in low-income countries and among young women, who often have less access to the internet and digital skills compared to their male counterparts.

While there is an urgent need to enhance digital inclusion, youth are largely recognized as “digital natives,” using technology to drive change and create solutions. As the 2030 deadline for the SDGs approaches, the role of young people in digital innovation is essential for addressing global issues.

International Youth Day is celebrated annually on 12 August. Since 1999 when the United Nations General Assembly endorsed the recommendation by the World Conference of Ministers of Youth to declare this day, it has served as a powerful reminder of the significant role young people play in shaping a sustainable future.

This year, the theme is “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development,” focusing on how young people drive digital technologies to advance progress toward achieving the SDGs.