Vodacom Tanzania, MCL lead call for unity to transform future

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania is navigating an era of rapid change, from climate challenges to digital transformation and shifting social dynamics. Experts say addressing these issues requires collaboration across all sectors of society.

This was the central message at a virtual dialogue held on August 14 under the theme “Catalysing Impact Collaboration for People, Planet, and Prosperity,” jointly organised by Vodacom Tanzania Plc and Mwananchi Communications Limited (MCL).

Vodacom Tanzania’s External Affairs Director, Zuweina Farah, stressed the role of inclusive digital transformation.

“When deploying a site in rural Tanzania, we also need grid electricity, roads, and supporting infrastructure. Transformation is not possible without people. If citizens are not involved in design and access, then 25 years from now we will still be discussing the same issues,” she said.

Ms Farah added that technology cuts across all sectors, from agriculture to education and healthcare.

“At Vodacom, we are committed to including marginalised groups in everything we do, from digital financial services to cybersecurity and data protection,” she said.

She pointed to Tanzania’s globally recognised mobile money ecosystem as an example of transformative impact, but cautioned that access alone is not enough without digital literacy and affordability.

MCL Managing Director Rosalynn Mndolwa-Mworia emphasised the importance of purpose-driven partnerships.

“Tanzania, like many nations, is undergoing a rapid digital transformation while facing climate vulnerabilities and changing social dynamics. These challenges cannot be addressed in silos,” she said, noting that sustainable development is a collective responsibility.

National Planning Commission official Dr Crispin Ryakitimbo underscored the role of policy in shaping the country’s future.

“Policies on free education, healthcare expansion, and gender equity must align with Vision 2050. Reforms in areas such as local government laws could also empower municipalities to enter into partnerships with private investors and NGOs,” he said.

He further highlighted the potential of public-private partnerships to drive industrialisation, trade, and value chain development through special economic zones and industrial parks.

Foundation for Civil Society Executive Director Justice Rutenge said trust and citizen participation are the foundation of sustainable development.

“Trust grows when partners feel secure to propose ideas, even when competing interests exist. Strengthening local government systems to be transparent and participatory is essential,” he said.

CEO Roundtable of Tanzania Executive Director Santina Majengo called for stronger collaboration between the private sector, academia, and youth.

“There can be no real business sustainability without contributing to sustainability overall. Our talent must look beyond Tanzania to regional and global opportunities,” she said, urging greater recognition of vocational training.

The dialogue concluded with a consensus that long-term partnerships built on trust, inclusivity, and shared purpose are critical to securing Tanzania’s future, protecting the planet, and ensuring prosperity for all.