STAKEHOLDERS from various civil society organisations (CSOs) will next month meet in Arusha to discuss strategies needed for sustainable development, with preparations for Vision 2050 taking centre stage in discussions.

JUSTICE Rutenge, the Foundation for Civil Society (FCS) executive director, said at a press conference in Dar es Salaam yesterday that key areas of discussion will include efforts to mitigate the unemployment crisis in the country.

The event in the CSOs Week will similarly focus on expanding civic space in Tanzania, chiefly on the need to enhance citizens’ political efficacy and agency, he said, noting that participants will explore how to increase civic engagement in democratic governance processes.

Participation in the upcoming civic polls will be examined at length, he said, noting that the weeklong schedule is slated for September 9 to 13, bringing together over 500 civil society organisations, private and public firms, non-state actors, faith-based organisations, foundations, trusts and representatives of special groups such as youth, women and people with disabilities.

“The CSOs Week is for all Tanzanians, from grassroots activists to national business leaders to share insights and experiences, ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard in shaping the nation’s future,” he stated.

FCS has partnerships with a number of support organisations to improve the quality of education and digital skills for youth, women, girls and people with disabilities, he said, pointing at FCS partnership with Vodacom Tanzania Foundation.

This engagement is aimed at addressing the pressing unemployment crisis by equipping these groups with the necessary skills for the job market, while the health infrastructure and equity initiatives programme will target disparities in health services, he explained.

Marginalized communities need to receive equitable access to healthcare, he said, intimating that the CSOs’ shadow Vision 2050 will be launched as an alternative National Development Vision.

It is intended to underscore the importance of enhancing the quality of life for Tanzanians, in relation to food security, healthcare, access to energy, clean water supply, housing and sustainable urban development, he specified.

“The annual event, set against the backdrop of significant global and local shifts, seeks to recalibrate its focus and methodologies,” he said, explaining that the event recognises the pivotal role of democratic processes in shaping the nation’s future.

As the world approaches the midpoint of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) without substantial progress, the CSO Week will provide a platform for rethinking, refocusing and recharging efforts towards sustainable development, he further noted.

“Therefore, the CSO Week 2024 theme is guided by the principles of vision, voice and value, emphasising collaboration across civil society, government and the private sector for Tanzania’s progress and prosperity,” the director affirmed.

Nesia Mahenge, the chairperson of the CSOs Week steering committee and CBM International country director, an organisation geared for inclusion of those living with blindness, pointed at private sector engagement as a key feature of this year’s event.

Acknowledging that various organisations were supporting the activists’ bonanza, she said that the civil society sector works closely with communities to implement interventions that support gender equity, the inclusion of people with disabilities, democracy, youth participation, peace, and social cohesion. 

Private sector support for CSO Week reflects a commitment to social justice, sustainable development, and community empowerment, making it a strategic investment in Tanzania's future, she said.

It demonstrates a dedication to nurturing an inclusive, equitable and resilient society, thus the partnerships is crucial for addressing complex societal challenges. Private firms play a vital role in driving meaningful change and sustainable development, she said.

Focusing on delivering tangible benefits to Tanzanians, the ‘value’ theme seeks to identify actions that make a difference in people’s lives through collective efforts. It emphasises commitment to practical outcomes that uplift and empower every citizen, the director added.