Call for African Narratives and the Impact of Technology Dominates Civil Society Day in Arusha

Francis Kiwanga, the Director of The Foundation for Civil Society, proudly exhibited the award presented to him by the organizing committee of Civil Society Week 2023, acknowledging his five-year tenure and his substantial con tributions to the institution.

During the peak celebration of Civil Society Day in Arusha on October 27, 2023, the President of the Foundation for Civil Society, Dr. Stigmata Tenga, urged Africans to document the positive narratives and stories about the continent, emphasizing that relying on external perspectives for these narratives isn't sufficient. 

She stressed that if Africans do not share their own stories and information, they'll continue being represented by those who are not African, as is presently the case. 

She underlined the rich diversity of Africa beyond just the color of its people's skin, stating that in the next 80 years, Africa is projected to hold a significant portion of the world's workforce, highlighting the continent's growth potential.

"Although our skin color is black, our continent embodies myriad colors... and in 80 years, it's said we'll be dominating global employment as the fastest-growing continent," reiterated Dr. Tenga.

She urged everyone to speak about the changes happening in their communities to ensure the world hears their voices.

The Civil Society Week was used by participants to deliberate on how technological advancements could enhance productivity, expand market reach, and ultimately increase income for Tanzanians.

Harold Sungusia, the President of the Tanganyika Law Society (TLS), highlighted that technology would significantly assist lawyers in managing their tasks more effectively. They could access case updates or progress from their offices, saving time spent in courtrooms where proceedings might be delayed due to the absence of judges.

Furthermore, the organizing committee for Civil Society Week 2023 awarded a shield to Francis Kiwanga, the Director of the Foundation for Civil Society, acknowledging his significant contributions to the organization. In an emotionally charged speech, Kiwanga expressed surprise and gratitude for the unexpected recognition, thanking the committee and the civil society organizations he had closely collaborated with over the years.

Aida Eyakuze, Director of Twaweza, described Kiwanga as a resilient individual, having worked together since their youth in the sector, affirming her belief in his capacity to excel wherever he goes

Ahmed Alfan, the Registrar of Civil Society Organizations from the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar, highlighted that these organizations had executed development projects worth 49 billion Tanzanian Shillings, channeled through the accounts of various civil society entities operating nationwide

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