Religious leaders outline key issues for Tanzania’s Vision2050

Dar es Salaam.  Religious leaders have highlighted key priority areas for inclusion in Tanzania's Vision 2050, including good governance, education, healthcare, economic reforms, and family welfare.

They expressed the views during a meeting of the Interfaith Committees convened on Monday January 13, to review the draft of the country's Development Vision 2050.

The session took place at the Tanzania Episcopal Conference (TEC) hall in Kurasini, Dar es Salaam.

Kigoma Regional Sheikh, Mr Hassan Kiburwa, stressed the importance of freedom and inclusivity in the new national vision.

He argued that a vision lacking respect for individual freedoms would fail to inspire trust and confidence.

“If we want citizens to be confident, the vision must empower them to freely express their views without fear,” he said.

Sheikh Kiburwa highlighted concerns about individuals being constantly questioned about their nationality simply because they reside in border regions.

He emphasised the need for a vision that fosters a sense of security and confidence among citizens.

“When people are free to express their genuine opinions, they contribute meaningful ideas. Without this, we risk building a society of sycophants, which will ultimately harm the nation,” he added.

Deputy secretary general of the Supreme Council of Muslims in Tanzania (Bakwata), Sheikh Mohamed Khamis, called for a comprehensive review of challenges faced during the implementation of Vision 2025 to guide the preparation of Vision 2050.

One of the issues he highlighted was the lack of alignment between Vision 2025 and policies such as those of political parties, which led to an absence of consistent national priorities.

“Vision 2050 should ensure peace, security, and unity by promoting reconciliation, resilience and rebuilding efforts,” said Sheikh Khamis.

He also emphasised the need for constitutional reforms that address current needs and long-term national interests, proposing the adoption of enduring policies regardless of changes in government.

Human development

The director of development and advocacy programmes at the Christian Council of Tanzania (CCT), Mr Azgard Stephen, outlined poverty, ignorance and disease as the main challenges hindering human development.

He called for healthcare, social welfare, and quality education to be prioritised in the new vision.

“A hungry, uneducated and unhealthy individual cannot contribute to peace. We need strong foundations in health and education,” he said.

Mr Stephen also urged the government to simplify business regulations to enhance regional and international trade, pointing out that lengthy approval processes deter business growth.

“Vision 2050 should prioritise easing tax burdens and broadening the tax base with sustainable systems that encourage compliance,” he added.

Sheikh Khamis suggested incorporating economic data and statistics at the family level to inform decision-making and address issues such as gambling, which impoverishes young people.

In healthcare, he recommended establishing health centres in every village, reducing medical costs and promoting universal health insurance through dedicated funding from specific economic sectors.

In education, Sheikh Khamis urged policies that align with national goals, including job creation for graduates of new vocational curricula.

He also called for globally recognised education standards, particularly in ICT, finance, and business, while addressing historical disparities in marginalised areas.

“Improving teachers’ welfare will attract talented individuals to the profession,” he added.

TEC spokesperson, Dr Camilius Kasala, emphasised the critical role of families and youth in the country’s development.

“Youth need access to education, skills, and resources to actively participate in development by 2050,” said Dr Kasala.

He proposed creating stable income opportunities for young people through cooperatives, economic groups, and activities tailored to local conditions and climates.