50bn/- fund to boost creative youths

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Government of Tanzania, through the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, has announced the establishment of a 50bn/- fund aimed at empowering young people working in the creative industry.

The initiative targets a wide range of creative professionals, including content creators, artists, musicians, actors, journalists, influencers and other individuals involved in media, arts and cultural production.

Speaking recently in Arusha, the Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Paul Makonda, said the fund is part of the government’s broader efforts to promote youth economic empowerment through the development of media, arts and creative industries.

Makonda explained that the ministry was initially allocated 20bn/- for the initiative. However, following consultations with CRDB Bank, the amount was increased to 50bn/- in order to expand support to a larger number of young beneficiaries.

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“The ministry is now awaiting the official launch date, after which the funds will be disbursed to young people across the media, arts and creative sectors to support the growth of their work and contribute to national economic development,” he said.

He noted that the initiative reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to creating economic opportunities for young people and encouraging them to use their talents as a driver of Tanzania’s development.

According to Makonda, the fund will play an important role in strengthening the creative industry, which is increasingly emerging as a significant contributor to the national economy.

“Supporting artists, content creators and other creatives not only promote professional growth within the sector but also stimulates innovation and cultural expression,” he said.

Makonda added that projects supported through the initiative could also help preserve and promote Tanzanian cultural heritage while showcasing it to wider local and international audiences.

“This exposure has the potential to boost tourism, increase media exports and generate additional revenue streams, further contributing to economic development,” he said.