Tanzania set for national household budget survey

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania is gearing up for the launch of the next integrated Household Budget Survey, with preparations finalised ahead of its January commencement, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

The year-long survey, which will target 16,480 households across the mainland and Zanzibar, aims to provide critical insights into poverty levels, food security and economic growth.

Officials say the data will be key in shaping policies to enhance national development and improve citizens’ well-being. At a preparatory meeting with government officials and development partners, NBS director general Dr Albina Chuwa described the initiative as “fundamental” to evidence-based policymaking.

“The survey will provide crucial household income, expenditure and living conditions data. It will assess the state of poverty, economic growth and food security, ensuring that our strategies are aligned with the country’s development goals,” she said.

The survey will span 29 modules, addressing issues ranging from food security and health to overall household welfare.

Dr Chuwa highlighted its importance in evaluating progress towards Tanzania’s Vision 2025 and global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly the eradication of poverty and hunger.

Dr Chuwa also noted that data collected would give a clearer picture of food production across the country, allowing the government to determine whether Tanzania maintains a surplus for export alongside meeting domestic needs.

With field training set to begin in December, Dr Chuwa urged selected households to participate fully and provide accurate information.

She assured the public that all data collected would remain confidential and be used solely for statistical purposes, as stipulated under the Statistics Act.

“This is a national responsibility. Accurate information from households will ensure that the survey reflects the true state of our economy and society,” she said.

Regions with larger populations, including Dar es Salaam, Mwanza, Arusha, and Mbeya, will have proportionately higher numbers of sampled households to ensure comprehensive representation.

Zanzibar’s chief statistician, Mr Salumu Kassimu, confirmed that preparations on the islands, including Unguja and Pemba, were complete. He announced that 1,368 field officers would be involved, with training to begin in December.

“We call on all residents of Zanzibar, especially those in selected areas, to support this important exercise by cooperating with the officers who visit them,” he said.

The survey is expected to offer policymakers the tools they need to track the nation’s progress, design effective interventions and allocate resources where they are most needed.