In a significant step toward youth empowerment, UNA Tanzania, in partnership with World Vision, hosted a transformative Youth Exposition on 29th August, at the United Nations House in Dar es Salaam. The event brought together 170 young people and key stakeholders from both the public and private sectors, providing them with the necessary skills and opportunities to drive change and foster development in their communities.
The event was kicked off by Mr. Ibrahim Bakari, Executive Director of UNA Tanzania, who welcomed participants and introduced the panelists. In his remarks, Mr. Bakari emphasized the organization’s ongoing efforts to champion youth empowerment through increasing Youth participation in Decision-making platforms. He also expressed gratitude to World Vision for their collaboration, noting that such partnerships are essential for equipping youth with the tools needed to thrive economically and socially.
Mr. Shigeki Komatsubara, UNDP Resident Representative, delivering a keynote address at the Youth Exposition towards embracing digital technology responsibly.
UNDP Resident Representative Mr. Shigeki Komatsubara delivered a keynote address, urging the youth to embrace digital technology responsibly. While acknowledging the potential benefits of digital tools, he warned against their misuse. Mr. Komatsubara also encouraged youth to explore opportunities in sectors such as agriculture and marine industries, which are vital for Tanzania’s economic growth. “Youth are the future, and their participation in the Summit of the Future is crucial,” he stated.
Representing the government, Mr. Masalinda Njashi, acting on behalf of the Regional Commissioner, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to youth development. He highlighted recent efforts to reintroduce Local Governments 10% Economic empowerment loans to Youths, Women, and People With Disabilities in various regions and spoke on amendments to the 2007 Youth Policy. Mr. Njashi called on organizations to continue collaborating with the government in creating meaningful programs, particularly in agriculture, that support youth development.
World Vision’s representative, Mr. Joseph Mhaiki, provided insights into the organization’s role in the Youth Exposition. He underscored World Vision’s dedication to nurturing young leaders through various initiatives. Mr. Mhaiki also facilitated a panel discussion aimed at helping youth understand how to utilize the available resources and opportunities for personal growth.
The event featured two key panel discussions. The first, led by Mr. Mhaiki, focused on the objectives of the Youth Exposition and its role in empowering youth. The second, moderated by Ms. Upendo Ngumba, Youth Development Officer from UNA Tanzania, connected youth with stakeholders from CRDB Foundation, Soko Huru, VETA, SIDO, and SUMA JKT. These organizations offered practical advice on education, business strategies, and access to funds, providing valuable information to help youth kickstart and sustain their entrepreneurial ventures.
Ms. Upendo Ngumba (First from right), moderating a pannel Discussion with stakeholders from CRDB Foundation, Soko Huru, VETA, SIDO, and SUMA JKT.
In the closing remarks, Mr. Mhaiki thanked all the event partners, including UNA Tanzania and UNDP, for their collaborative efforts. He expressed optimism about future events and initiatives that will continue to support youth development in Tanzania.
The Youth Exposition successfully showcased the importance of empowering young people with the skills and opportunities to lead change, while also reinforcing the role of collaboration between governments, organizations, and the youth themselves in shaping a brighter future for Tanzania.
