CSOs deny foreign influence claims of tarnishing Tanzania

Dar es Salaam. Civil society organizations (CSOs) in Tanzania have denied allegations of being used by foreign donors to tarnish the country’s image.

A representative of CSOs in the country who is also a National Coordinator of the Tanzania Human Rights Defenders Coalition (THRDC), Onesmo Olengurumwa, dismissed such claims yesterday in Dar es Salaam, asserting that civil society has been instrumental in the country’s development, particularly in fostering democracy and advocating for human rights.

“We are not the puppets of donors. Since independence, and even during the transition to multiparty politics, CSOs have contributed significantly to the country’s progress—not just politically, but also socially and economically,” he said.

He went on to highlight the pivotal role of CSOs in elections, stating that they have been conducting internal election observation to promote transparency and accountability.

He noted, however, that challenges arose during the 2019 local government elections and the general elections in 2020, where many organizations faced restrictions and were denied permits, making it difficult to monitor the electoral process effectively.

“These constraints were deliberate, targeting major CSOs and creating an environment where financial instability hindered our ability to oversee the elections closely,” he added.

He further emphasised the importance of fair electoral processes in ensuring good governance, arguing that elections determine leaders who oversee the management of national and foreign resources.

“Elections are the foundation of good governance. If we get the process right, we can ensure leaders who utilise the country’s resources effectively and oversee foreign aid transparently without fears of corruption,” he explained.

Addressing the issue of foreign funding, he dismissed concerns about a lack of transparency in how CSOs handle donor funds.

He assured that financial contributions received by CSOs are openly declared and audited in compliance with Tanzanian laws.

“Our funds are transparent. Whenever we sign agreements with donors, we disclose them, and our accounts are regularly audited. The problem arises when we speak the truth, which some people find uncomfortable, leading to attempts to tarnish our reputation,” he said.

He refuted claims that CSOs work under the directives of foreign donors to carry out activities that undermine the nation.

Instead, he insisted that donors support projects that align with local priorities and initiatives aimed at societal improvement.

“No donor dictates what we should do to harm the nation. We create our projects, and if they see value in them, they support us. It’s not about pushing us to act against the country’s interests,” he clarified.

He further defended the role of CSOs in holding government and other institutions accountable, especially when citizens’ rights are violated.

“When someone violates citizens’ rights, we expose them. That’s not tarnishing the nation internationally—it’s about providing direction on what needs to be done for the good of the people,” he said.

He also called for a broader recognition of CSOs’ contributions beyond politics, noting that they actively support sectors such as health and education.

“If we can build schools and contribute to healthcare services, why can’t we be seen as key stakeholders in political matters, especially elections? Our role in elections ensures processes are conducted fairly and that citizens’ constitutional rights are protected,” he said.

He urged for greater collaboration between the government and CSOs to ensure that elections and governance processes are inclusive, transparent, and beneficial to the nation’s development.