Govt injects 58bn/- into youth ventures
DODOMA: THE Youth Development Fund has disbursed over 58bn/- out of the 200bn/- allocated to finance youth-led projects, particularly in agriculture, fisheries and the information sector.
The Permanent Secretary in the President’s Office – Youth Development, Ms Jenifa Omolo, said in Dodoma yesterday that the funds are being channelled through sectoral ministries and her office, as pledged by the President.
She was briefing reporters ahead of the International Youth Day commemorations scheduled to take place in the capital from to day, August 11, to 12, 2026.
“So far, more than 58bn/- has been released to support young people, and disbursement is ongoing,” she said.
Ms Omolo noted that this year’s theme, “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations,” highlights the shared ambitions of youths despite differences in social, economic and geographical backgrounds.
She said young people across the country seek access to education, skills, employment, capital and quality services, as well as opportunities to participate in decision-making.
“Environmental differences should not limit the size of a youth’s dream or their participation in national development,” she stressed.
The PS said the government is strengthening policies and programmes to connect youths with capital, markets, skills and technology, ensuring inclusive participation in economic activities.
She added that the Youth Development Fund aims to equip young people with capital and production tools, alongside training, business advisory services and close followup to ensure sustainability.
In addition, she said, local government authorities allocate 15 per cent of their internal revenue for citizen empowerment, including youths, while 30 per cent of public tenders are reserved for special groups.
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Ms Omolo urged youths to form strong groups, formalise their ventures and prepare viable business plans to maximise the opportunities available.
In February this year, Minister of State, Youth Development Mr Joel Nanauka was handed a cheque worth 200bn/- and assigned the responsibility of supervision and coordination.
The government released 200bn/- to facilitate empowerment programmes for youths and women engaged in various economic sectors, part of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s pledges in the first 100 days in office.
Speaking during the fund handing over ceremony, Prime Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba directed responsible ministries and public institutions to ensure the capital reach targeted beneficiaries.
Dr Nchemba said the disbursement also aligns with implementation of the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) Election Manifesto for 2025–2030 as well as the Fourth Implementation Plan of the National Development Vision 2050.
