Our work in Tanzania

Overview

Tanzania gained independence in 1961 and has remained a fairly peaceful and stable nation. The nation contributes peacekeepers to UN missions, engages in trade with other countries in the region, has vast natural resources and upholds democratic institutions.

However, lack of access to basic services (particularly in rural areas), poor infrastructure, and epidemics such as HIV, have stalled development in the country and millions of people remain in poverty.

Corruption and the misuse of public funds is a critical issue that Tanzania needs to address to allow successful development and progress.

The church’s work in Tanzania is widely respected and utilised as it provides public services –  particularly health, education and other development initiatives. It has an extensive presence and well-established networks at both national and local levels.

Our work in Tanzania

Tearfund has supported local Christian partners in Tanzania since 1969. All of our partners are focusing on transforming communities through the Church and Community Mobilisation process. This involves working with local churches to empower the community to lift themselves out of poverty. The church also equips community members to form self-help groups – small scale community savings schemes which also offer broader mutual support to members. These groups (known as Pamoja in Tanzania) increase people’s resilience to hardship and disaster, particularly for the poorest and most marginalised.

Church and Community Transformation

Tearfund is working with Msalato Theological College to train church leaders to see the gospel as something that affects every area of people’s lives – encouraging the healing of people’s relationships with God, each other, and creation.

We are collaborating with Compassion International and Msalato Theological College to support 20 local churches in setting up children’s centres. Our collaborative aim is to provide children from poor families with opportunities and a safe space to play and learn, so that every child can fulfil their potential.

Advocacy work 

Our local partners are speaking out and raising awareness on the issues of female genital mutilation or cutting (FGM/C), HIV, environmental issues and government transparency.

A substantial number of church leaders in Tanzania have the capacity and the willingness to speak out on issues of injustice. Communities are learning how to defend their rights through the Pamoja process and unjust policies, practices and structures are being changed at both local and national levels.