Tanzania: CSO Week to address democracy challenges, Vision 2050
The Foundation for Civil Society (FCS) executive director, Mr Justice Rutenge addresses a press conference on the upcoming Civil Society Organisations Week 2024 slated to take place in Arusha from September 9 to September 13, this year. PHOTO|ROSEMARY MIRONDO
What you need to know:
- The theme of CSO Week 2024 slated for September 9–13 is Voice, Vision, and Value
Dar es Salaam. Members of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) are set to address issues of democracy challenges and the Tanzania Vision 2050 in the CSO Week 2024.
The Foundation for Civil Society (FCS), Mr Justice Rutenge, told a press conference on Friday, August 23, 2024, that addressing challenges impeding democracy and prosperity was crucial as the country gears towards the forthcoming elections.
Tanzania is slated to hold civic polls on November 27, 2024, to elect village, hamlet, and neighbourhood leaders.
In October 2025, the country is expected to hold a general election to vote for the United Republic of Tanzania president, the president of Zanzibar, members of parliament, members of the representative council, and councillors.
During the event, Mr Rutenge said CSO Week 2024 is scheduled for September 9–13, themed: Voice, Vision, and Value.
"The focus of CSO Week is to align with the country's vision as we approach forthcoming elections. Voice, Vision, and Value will be central as we navigate this critical period,” he said.
He said as the country approaches upcoming elections, the people’s voices are crucial, adding that as the country prepares Vision 2050, which is a significant milestone in the next three decades, Tanzanians need to be visionary.
Mr Rutenge emphasised that the vision should reflect the voices of citizens rather than being shaped solely by what experts think.
"The vision should arise from the perspectives and aspirations of the people," Rutenge said.
"Voice is a crucial element, ensuring that opinions, regardless of differences in gender or ideology, are acknowledged," he added.
Furthermore, Mr Rutenge stressed the importance of "Value," which is often overlooked, insisting that effective implementation of plans should be put in place to reflect citizens' feedback.
"Value means how well plans are executed based on the vision set by the nation. During CSO Week, collaboration between different sectors—including government, multilateral organisations, and citizens—will be key to achieving development goals," he said.
CBM International Country Director Nesia Mahenge said the event will be the sixth consecutive CSO Week.
"We will address current challenges and explore ways to collaborate with the private, public, and CSO sectors to foster development in Tanzania," Mahenge said.
