More than 500 participants from civil society organizations (CSOs), the private sector, government bodies, and development partners are expected to take part in the CSO Week 2024, which will be held from September 9 to 13 in Arusha.
The event will be officially opened by the Minister of State in the President’s Office for Planning and Investment, Prof. Kitila Mkumbo, who will engage in panel discussions rather than delivering a traditional opening speech.
Speaking at a press conference on September 8, 2024, in Arusha, the Executive Director of the Foundation for Civil Society (FCS), Justice Rutenge, highlighted that this year’s theme, "Voices, Vision, and Value," aligns with the nation’s ongoing and upcoming events, including the 2024 local elections, the 2025 general elections, and the preparation of the National Development Vision 2025-2050.
“We are at a critical moment in our country’s democracy. This year, we have local government elections, and next year, we have the general elections. Additionally, we are on the verge of launching the National Development Vision 2050, a rare opportunity that happens once in 25 years.
It is crucial that citizens' voices are heard, contributing their thoughts, opinions, and perspectives on the future of our nation,” said Rutenge.
He emphasized that the CSO Week will feature discussions on various issues concerning CSO activities, community development, and cooperation between civil society, the government, and the private sector.
“Despite our differences as Tanzanians, at the end of the day, the National Development Vision should reflect the views of the citizens,” added Rutenge.
He further stressed the importance of implementing the National Vision to achieve national development, noting that value will be created through collaboration across different sectors during the CSO Week.
“There will be participation from the government, the private sector, public entities, various local and international organizations, and citizens,” he stated.
Youth Engagement and Democracy
John Kalage, Executive Director of HakiElimu, pointed out that research shows limited youth participation in various spheres, particularly in matters of democracy.
He highlighted that CSO Week will offer young people the opportunity to voice their opinions on their engagement in national development.
“We will bring in young people to talk about their participation in democracy both inside and outside school settings through the youth forum. They have two roles—running for leadership positions and participating in the process of electing leaders they believe in,” said Kalage.
Women’s Voices in the 2050 Vision
Nesia Mahenge, Country Director of the International Christian Blind Mission (CBM) and chairperson of the CSO Week 2024 organizing committee, noted that preparations are complete and expressed gratitude to the sponsors and stakeholders who made the event possible.
Meanwhile, Lilian Liundi, Director of the Tanzania Gender Networking Programme (TGNP), stressed the importance of ensuring women's voices are heard, particularly regarding the 2050 National Development Vision and investment issues.
“This year, we want to make sure that the voices of various stakeholders, including women, are heard. Women must voice their opinions, especially regarding the 2050 Vision, and emphasize the importance of investment as a priority,” said Liundi.
CSO Week 2024 will be the 6th annual event since its inception in 2018.
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