Young voters enlightened to shape Tanzania’s democratic future

DAR ES SALAAM: AS Tanzanians prepare to cast their votes next week with a renewed sense of purpose, a new generation of first-time voters, many of them university students, have expressed optimism about exercising their civic right as a means of strengthening the country’s democracy.

Carrying the slogan “My Vote, My Voice,” these young citizens are championing a message that every ballot counts, underscoring the civic responsibility and collective power that shape the nation’s political destiny.

Their enthusiasm reflects a growing awareness that democracy is not merely about electing leaders, but about preserving peace, unity and accountability.

For candidates, campaigns have been about selling policies and promises, but for young people, the focus lies in participation, ensuring their voices influence decisions that affect their lives.

Speaking to the ‘Daily News’, the students opened up on what this election means to them and why they believe their votes matter.

Agrey Bwakila, a 21-year-old Public Relations and Advertising student at the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM), said it is vital for youth to take part in the electoral process since they represent a significant share of Tanzania’s population.

“Through our votes, we can help elect leaders who understand our needs and drive progress,” he said, expressing optimism and a strong sense of obligation to participate as a responsible citizen.

Second-year UDSM student Emiliana Obedi, 20, said that youth involvement in elections is the only way to get capable and visionary leaders.

“Participating in elections for the first time reflects the presence of democracy. This election will project our voices and aspirations as young voters,” she said.

Ms Obedi urged fellow youth to turn out in large numbers to cast their ballots, stressing that participation in elections is a crucial step towards shaping the country’s future.

For Dar es Salaam resident Nasma Juma, 20, elections are a vital democratic tool that allows citizens to choose who should lead them and how.

“For young people, participating in such a process is an opportunity to shape our future, because politics impacts every aspect of our lives,” she said.

“This general election is a chance for all Tanzanians, especially youth, to choose leaders who will bring about development for the next five years.”

She also noted that despite a perception that many young people are apathetic toward politics, they remain the country’s future.

“Even a single vote can bring about meaningful change,” she said, urging her peers to seize the opportunity.

For 21-year-old Holiness Mbise, the upcoming polls present an opportunity for young Tanzanians to influence the national agenda.

“This election means a lot to me. I’m still finding my way in life and I believe our leaders play a huge role in creating opportunities for us to thrive. I want to vote for a leader who understands the struggles of the youth,” she said, listing youth unemployment, education, healthcare and job creation among her key concerns.

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At the UDSM’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication, second-year student Doris Kipangala said she is eager to participate for the first time.

“I’ve studied democracy in class, but now I get to experience it as a voter,” she said.

“Voting is the most effective way to take part in decision-making and social change. Every vote counts.”

She added that elections reinforce Tanzania’s values of peace, unity and development—values she hopes to help preserve through her participation.

Dar es Salaam resident Richard Machibya, 23, described the October 2025 polls as a defining moment for both the nation and young citizens like himself.

“Politics directly affects our daily lives,” he said, stressing the importance of youth involvement in governance and leadership.

Beyond students, experts and stakeholders also emphasised the crucial role of first-time voters in shaping Tanzania’s democratic path.

Digital rights consultant and founder of the ‘Dig It With Imani’ podcast, Ms Imani Luvanga, described voting as a constitutional right that must never be taken lightly.

“Voting is not just a right, it is a responsibility,” she said, adding, “Young voters should make informed choices, remain vigilant and resist manipulation from political candidates.”

Ms Luvanga advised young people to critically analyse party manifestos and the qualifications of candidates before making decisions.

“Voters should be guided by vision and reason, not by empty promises or partisan bias,” she added.

Similarly, Ms Mary Kiria, Founder and Chairperson of the Ladies of Value NGO, reminded citizens that elections come only once every five years and must not be taken for granted.

“Young people must take this process seriously. Assess candidates carefully and prioritise those with strong, realistic policies that can uplift the nation,” she said.

Ms Kiria cautioned first time voters against being swayed by superficial campaign hype, urging them to demand accountability, integrity and vision from political leaders.

Echoing these sentiments, political and social affairs analyst Mr Kenneth Baga reminded youth that democracy goes beyond casting a vote.

“True democracy involves accountability and active participation in leadership. I encourage young Tanzanians, including firsttime voters, to not only vote but also consider standing for elective positions if they meet the requirements,” he said.

As election day draws near, one message resonates strongly among Tanzania’s youth: The ballot is more than a piece of paper—it is a tool of change, empowerment and collective destiny